Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 1214, Aaron Brinkley, Va.

SERVICE
NUMBER
Va.
Drinkley, Aaron Sarah
R. 12/4
CONTENTS

No 6394
Aaron Brinkley & wife To [unclear] Copy Deed.
Mills Brinkley
Deed Book No 13. p 481.
For The widow of Aaron Brinkley - residing in Edgecombe County N.C.
copy furnished gratis.

This Indenture, made this twenty fourth day of May, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty six. Between Aaron Brinkley, son and heir at law of Henry Brinkley decd. of the upper parish of Nansemond County, Virginia of the one part, and Mills Brinkley, of the parish and County aforesaid and State of Virginia, of the other part. Witnesseth, that the said Aaron Brinkley for and in consideration of the sum of Sixty pounds, good and lawful money of Virginia, to him in hand paid, the receipt whereof he doth hereby acknowledge and himself fully satisfied and paid, he the said Aaron Brinkley hath bargained, sold, conveyed and confirmed, & doth by these presents, fully, clearly and absolutely give, grant, bargain, sell, alien, convey and confirm unto the said Mills Brinkley to his heirs & assigns forever, "one certain tract or parcel of Land lying & being in the County of Nansemond and State of Virginia, containing One hundred & fifty acres, be the same more or less; Bounded as followeth vizt: Beginning at the mouth of the Juniper branch running up the run of the said Branch to the fork then along an old line to the old creek road & John Riddick's line then along the said old road Riddick's line to Robt Coleman's line then James Brinkley's line & then along the said Brinkley's line to the run of the said Mossys swamp & then along the said run of the said swamp to the mouth of the said Juniper Branch." To HAVE & to HOLD the said tract of Land and appurtenances, with the rights, members & appurtenances thereto belonging or any ways appertaining, with the reversion & reversions, remainder or remainders of all singular the premises to the only proper use & behoof of him the said Mills Brinkley his heirs forever fully, freely & clearly acquitted & discharged from him the said Aaron Brinkley his heirs from all and every other person or persons claiming from, by, or under him the said Aaron Brinkley & against himself, & against his heirs & against every other person or persons, the said Land & premises with their & every appurtenances, unto him the said Mills Brinkley to his heirs and assigns

forever shall well and truly swell warrant forever defend so that the sd. lands and appurtenances, shall remain, continue and be to the only use, benefit and behoof of him the sd. Mills Brinkley and assigns forever. In Witness whereof, the sd. Aaron Brinkley hath set his hand & fixed his seal to this Deed of sale the Day and year above written
Signed, Sealed & Delivered
in the presence of
Wm his X Gravathan
Wm his mark X Brinkley
John mark Riddick
Aaron Brinkley Sarah her X Brinkley mark
Recd this twenty fourth Day of May, one thousand seven hundred and eighty six from the within named Mills Brinkley the sum of sixty pounds lawfull money of Virginia in full of the within mentioned consideration. Witness my hand and seal
Wm his X Gravathan
Wm his mark X Brinkley
John mark Riddick
Aaron Brinkley
At a Court held for Nansemond County, June 12 th 1786. This Deed and receipt thereon indorsed from Aaron Brinkley & Sarah his wife, to Mills Brinkley, was acknowledged, the same being privily examined according to law relinquished her right of Dower therein, and ordered to be recorded and is truly recorded. Teste
William Eley, D. C. C.
At Office 14 Nov: 44
Abner Teste,
Joseph Mentes Clerk

State of Virginia:
Nansemond County to wit:
I Joseph Prentis clerk of the County Court of Nansemond, in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify, that the foregoing is a true copy of a deed, taken from deed Book, N o 13. page 481, as found on record in my office - The said Court being a Court of Record.
In testimony whereof I hereto set my hand and annex the seal of the said Court this Third day of February 1845.
Joseph Prentis. clerk.
State of Virginia, Nansemond County to wit:
This day Joseph Prentis clerk of the County Court of Nansemond, in the State of Virginia, personally appeared before me a Justice of the Peace in and for the county aforesaid, and made oath, that after a diligent search of the Records in his office, he has been unable to find any marriage License or Bond executed by Aaron Brinkley or any Certificate of the Minister who celebrated the rites of Matrimony; this branch of a Minister's duty in the present day, is very much neglected, though not quite so bad, as some sixty or more years ago, judging from the examination of the records, which he has made in the office of this Court.
Said affiant further states that he has seen on record a deed from Aaron Brinkley to Mills Brinkley for land in said county - That on the 12 th June 1786. Sarah the wife of the said Aaron Brinkley, was privily examined in open Court, and relinquished her right of dower therein, a copy of which deed is to be found on this sheet of paper. Sworn to before me this 3 rd day of February 1845.
Wm: Sumner, J.P.

Know all men by these presents, That we Mial Brinkly & Louis Brinkly, of the County of Edgecomb & State of North Carolina, have made, nominated and appointed, and by these presents do make nominate and appoint John H. Hughes of the aforesaid County & State, our true and lawful agent and attorney in fact, for us and in our name and for our use & benefit to ask, demand and receive for us from the Government of the United States, what may be due us as heirs of Aaron Brinkly for services rendered by him in the army during the Revolutionary War - and to do all things necessary concerning the premises as fully and effectually in every respect, as we our- selves, might or could do - were we personally present. In testimony whereof, we the said Mial Brinkly & Louis Brinkly do here- unto set our hands & seals this 17 th day January A D 1855 Mial Brinkly (S) Wife of William, of Louis Brinkly (S) Thomas V. Edwards mark

State of N Car } 17 th Jany 1855 Edgecomb County }
I hereby certify that the foregoing power of Attorney, was read, signed & acknowledged before me this day by M c Neil Brinkley and Louis Brinkley.
W. J. Moore (J.P.)
One of the acting Magistrates, in & for the County of Edgecomb.
State of North Carolina County of Edgecomb
J. W. S. P. M.
Clerk of the Court of Pleas & Sessions of State County & State aforesaid do hereby certify that W. J. Moore whose name is subscribed to the foregoing certificate is now and was at the time when he subscribed the same an acting Magistrate of said county duly commissioned and qualified and that full faith and credit are due to his official acts as such.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto signed my name

and official my seal of office, at office in Eastboro the 18 th day of January 1855.
W. S. Pitts

Declaration In order to obtain the benefit of the third section of the Act of Congress of the 24 th July 1836
State of North Carolina } Edgecomb County } ss
On this day the 18 th of November A D 1844, person- ally appeared before the subscriber, John F. Hughes, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State afore- said Elias Owens of the said County and State, aged about eighty four years, who having been duly sworn first accord- to law, doth on his oath make the following statement, That he was acquainted with Aaron Brinkly and his wife Sarah Brinkly, whose signature is annexed to the foregoing declaration, that he knew them to be married in the year seventeen hundred & seventy three, and that they lived together as husband and wife, that when he knew them they lived in and were both residents of Nansemond County, in the State of Virginia, That the said Aaron Brinkly served as a soldier in Virginia during the revolutionary war under one Captain Reddeck. That he was stationed at Norfolk, Portsmouth and other places in Virginia, That the said Aaron Brinkly was never married but once and that the aforesaid Sarah Brinkly was his only wife and now a widow. That the said Aaron Brinkly & wife Sarah moved to the County of Edgecomb & State of North Carolina after the revolutionary war ended, and that the said Aaron died in in Edgecomb County & State aforesaid about the year Eighteen hundred & four - That of the said Aaron Brinkly - That it was a generally known fact that he was legally married to the said Sarah - That the said Sarah Brinkly from the death of her husband has continued and still continues a widow - That the said Aaron Brinkly & wife Sarah have now living three children the oldest of which is now about sixty six years old.
Test - John F. Hughes
Elias his Owens mark
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written before me and I further certify that the said Owens whose signature or mark is above
6394

subscribed is a creditable witness and is so considered by respectable persons.
Ino F. Hughes (S 10)
State of North Carolina { Edgecomb county { S S
On this the twenty-seventh day of November 1844 personally appeared before the subscriber an justice of the peace in and for the county and State aforesaid, John Brinkly being first duly sworn according to law doth make the following statement: That Sarah Brinkly whose signature is annexed to the foregoing declaration is the widow of Adam Brinkly as she represents: who it is believed unreservedly in his neighborhood that he was a soldier in the Revolution that his widow has not since been mar- ried and that the said Widow now has living three children to wit: Myral Louisa (or Lousa) & Mary and that said Brinkly died about eighteen hundred and four as he be- lieves: that she is the only widow of said Brinkly neither having ever been before married Witness George Pippin (S 11) John M. Bell
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and date above written and I further certify that John Bell is a credible witness George Pippin (S 11)

Recd Feb 13. 1845
State of North Carolina } Court of Pleas and Quarter Edgcombe County } Sessions - November Term 1844 The Declaration of Sarah Brinkley Certified on the 19th day of November A. D. 1844 by John P. Hughes Esq, a Justice of the Pleas in and for the County of Edgcombe - The Deposition of Elias O'Neal, Certified on the 18th. day of Nov. A. D. 1844 by the said John P. Hughes, and The Deposition of Peter Webb Certified on the 27th. day of Nov. A. D. 1844 by Joseph Bro. Pippin Esq, another one of the Justices of the Pleas in & for said County; being duly exhibited in open Court, the Court doth approve the proceedings of auth of the said John P. and Joseph Bro. respectfully, and directs the Clerk of this Court to indorse the approval on the papers, which said papers doth contain the declaration of the said Sarah Brinkley and the depositions aforesaid, in order to obtain a Pension under the act of Congress passed the 4th. day of July A. D. 1836 - J. M. Norfleet Clerk
State of North Carolina } Edgcombe County } I, John Norfleet Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for said County, (which Court, is a Court of record) do hereby Certify that the above is a true Copy from the Minutes of said Court, at November Term 1844, and that John P. Hughes and Joseph Bro. Pippin, whose genuine signatures, are subscribed to the annexed De- claration, and affidavits, are now, and were at the time of signing the same lawful acting Justices of the Pleas, in & for said County, duly Commission- ed - Given under my hand & seal of office, at Tarboro, this the 7th. of December A. D. 1844 J. M. Norfleet Clerk

Declaration - In order to obtain the benefits of the third section of the Act of Congress of the 4 th July 1836.
State of North Carolina } ss. Edgecombe County — }
On this the 19 th day of November 1844, personally appeared before the subscriber a Justice of the Peace for said County, M rs Sarah Brinkly, a resident of the County and State aforesaid, aged about ninety years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following declaration - in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress passed July 4 th 1836. - That she is the widow of Aaron Brinkly, who was a soldier in the revolutionary war between this Country and Great Britain - That he served and did duty under one Captain Reddick, and was stationed at Suffolk, Portsmouth and other places in the State of Virginia - That they were married the 11 th day of May Seventeen hundred & seventy three and that at the date of their marriage they were both citizens of Nansemond County, State of Virginia - That she was married to the said Aaron Brinkly before and during the Revolutionary war. - That her husband has never received a pension from the United States - That after the Revolutionary war ended, she with her husband and children moved to the County of Edgecombe and State of North Carolina, and continued together as husband & wife until the death, of the said Aaron Brinkly, her husband which took place in the year Eighteen hundred & four, and from that time she has been and still continues a widow, as will more fully appear by reference to the proof hereto annexed - That she was married to the said Aaron Brinkly by one Parson Simon's at Henry Griffin's her father's, all of Nansemond County Virginia, by having the bands of matrimony published in the Church of that County before the marriage - That her oldest child now living is sixty six years old. Test Jno F Hughes (W) Sarah Brinkly mark
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year above written before me - Justice of the Peace in & for the County of Edgecombe State of North Carolina & further State that the aforesaid Sarah Brinkly mentioned in the above declaration is very old and unable to get out of her house - Jno F Hughes (W)

Acts of July 14, 1862, and March 3, 1873.
1214
P. O. Isaac V. Brinkley
Service: REJECTED
Enlisted: _____, 18
Discharged: _____, 18
Application filed: _____, 18
Alleges: List of rejected (or suspended) Claims printed in 1852,
Re-enlisted: shows cause of suspension as follows: "For proof 2nd specification."
Attorney: _____
P. O. _____
_____ Recognized. _____ Contract.
_____ Cert. of Dis. Searched for _____, 18

Sarah Brinkley
Wadsworth
1836
Albany N.Y. June 12/33
Post Office Office at Albany
J. P. Smith
Washington

6394.
Sarah Brinkley
No. Ga
Hon A H Arrington Feb 20 1845 " " " " March 11 1845 " " " " Feb 7 1846 " H. S. Clark " 27 1846 " Tho. Green June 9 1847 " " 29 Octo 1850 J. J. Hughes 5 Dec r 1850 J Byrum 11 Jany 1853 Hon J Ruffin 30 Jany 1853 " " " Feb 3 - 1853 J J Hughes " 8 1853 Hon Tho. Ruffin " 19 1853 M c Edward June 16 1853 Hon: Tho: Ruffin Feb: 21" 1856 B.S. (not in book)
1214
July 4 1836

Geo. Ruffin
Hon L P Waldo Commissioner of Pensions Washington City =

Handwritten text on a dark, textured background. The text is in cursive and appears to be in Arabic script. The words are somewhat obscured by the grainy texture of the paper.

May 15/10
Add: wid.
base. Sarah Brinkley wid. of Aaron
116 N. 3 rd Street
Washington
Col. J. L. Edwards

Sarah Brinkley Me. Jan 1886
John A. P. Hale
Commission of Enquiry Washington D.C.
Official Enquiry Mr. Tappan

Sarah Winkley Winkley Mar 18 1836
do Calc.
5
Conner's Service Office Washington City D.C.

Mr. Ruffin M.C.
Mr. Payton will hear answer
Hon Josiah Minot Commissioner of Pensions Washington City - D.C.

Sarah Brinkley wid of Aaron Oct 20 th 1836
Rev. Stephen M c E.
Dear Sir,
Commissions of Prisons Washington City D.C.

State of Virginia Randolph County
Be it known that on the 30 th day of April 1845 personally appeared before me Admiral Brinkley a Justice of the peace in and for the County and State aforesaid Jeremiah Peel of said County and State aged about ninety years who having first been duly sworn according to Law doth on his oath make the following statement and declaration
That he was well acquainted with Aaron Brinkley a revolutionary soldier. That he served with him in the war of the revolution, under Capt. Abraham Cole. for about six weeks at Pounding Mill Va. That the said Aaron Brinkley was raised in the County of Randolph aforesaid and married Sarah Griffin of said County. That he thinks he served all different periods during the war but as he was then at the South in the army he cannot be positive except as to the time above stated. That the said Aaron Brinkley and wife remained in the County of Randolph aforesaid until after the close of the war when they moved to the State of North Carolina. That he has known no other person by that name before or since but knew him well as they boy and young man together and was well acquainted with each other and further deponent saith not
witness A. Brinkley
his Jeremiah Peel mark
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written before me and I further certify that the said Jeremiah Peel is a credible witness whose signature is above
A Brinkley J.P.

State of Virginia, Nansemond County, To Wit:
I, Joseph Prentis, Clerk of the County Court of Nansemond in the state aforesaid, do hereby certify, that Admiral Brinkley Esquire, before whom, the foregoing affidavit was made, is a Justice of the Court of the said County of Nansemond in the state of Virginia duly commissioned and qualified to the said Office, according to the Constitution and laws of the said state.
In Testimony whereof I hereto set my hand and annex the seal of the said Court, this thirtieth day of April, One Thousand Eight Hundred and Forty Five.
Joseph Prentis Clerk

State of North Carolina
Edgecombe County
SS
Be it known that on this the 14 th day of November 1846 personally appeared before me Robert Belcher a Justice of the Peace in and for the county and State of fore Said John Webb of the Said County and State aged Sixty two years who having first been duly Sworn according to Law doth on his oath make the following statement That he has long since been well acquainted with Thomas Pittman and that he never has known his Evidence doubted or questioned in no case and that he Webb would believe Said Pittman to be a creditable Witness and believe Said Pittman on his Oath as soon as any Person
John Webb
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written before me and I further certify that Said Webb Whose signature is above written is a creditable Witness
Robt Belcher J.P. Seal

State of North Carolina Edgecombe County } S.S.
Be it known that on the 17 th day of November 1846 personally appeared before me John F. Hughes a Justice of the peace in and for the county and state aforesaid Spencer Stokes of the said county & state aged thirty three years who having first been duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following statement that he has long since been well acquainted with Thomas Dittman and that he has never known his oath ought in no case and the said Dittman is a credible witness and that he would believe said Dittman on his oath as soon as any person
Test. Jno F Hughes (M)
Spencer Stokes mark
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written before me and I further certify that said Stokes whose signature is above written is a credible witness Jno F Hughes (M)

State of Tennessee Eagane County
66
I, John Moffat, Clerk of the Court of pleas and Quarter Sessions of said County, do certify that Robert Belknap and John F. Hughes Esqrs. whose genuine signatures are subscribed to the foregoing affidavits of Pro. Webb and James Webb, are lawful acting Justices of the Peace, in and for said County, duly Commissioned and sworn
Given under my hand and seal of office, at Nashville, this the 20 th day of November A.D. 1846
J. Moffat Clerk

Sparta N.C. June 12 th . 1855 Mr L.P. Waldo
Dear Sir
The Heirs of Aron Brinkley wishes to no if there has bin any pension money drawed by Jacob Byrum or any other person for them, & if there has or has not they want all the papers sent back to them so that they may no there is and end to it they think if the proof had not bin surficient to drawed money the papers would not bin recd. there Jacob Byrum will not give them any satisfaction at all. please give me answer soon & you will oblige them in so doing yours very Truly M m H. Edwards

Washington, D.C. Jan 26 1855
Sir
Your letter of the 5 th inst part, was duly rec d , in which you state that "The condition of the claim of Sarah Brinkly, widow of Aaron of North Carolina, is such that it cannot be reported to me, unless I first file in your office, a Power of Atty, authorizing my agency" —
I herewith enclose a power of Atty from M c al Brinkly and Louie Brinkly, son and daughter of Sarah Brinkly, who is now dead. — Please to inform me very shortly the result of this application. — Direct your letter to Sparta North Carolina —
Very respectfully Yr Abdt S t . Ino F t Hughes
To the Comm n of the Pension Office, Washington City.

House of Representatives February 11 th 2 nd 1855.
Hon L P Waldo Commissioner of Pensions. Sir:
You will please furnish me with the name of the Agent or Atty. who is now engaged in the prosecution of a pension claim in behalf of Sarah Brinkley widow of Aaron Brinkley a revolutionary soldier. The application was filed in the latter part of 1844. Interest to be furnished with the money of such persons as have accounts or estate in the case.
I have the honor to be
Very respectfully &c Thos. Puffin

House of Representatives February 13 th 1855.
Genl P Waldo Commissioner of Pensions
Sir:
I addressed a letter to the Pension office, the 26 th inst. covering a letter from Benj: Atkeson addressed to me, and desired to be furnished with certain information. I have received no reply as yet. I should be pleased to get an answer to that letter. I have the honor to be
Very respectfully Yr Obt Servt - E. H. Ruffin

Sparta, NC. Dec 1. '81,
Dear.
Many years ago many papers were filed and sent to Thomas Green of Washington City, in order to obtain a pension for the widow Aaron Brinkley of Edgecombe Co in this State. It was for revolutionary services -
I wish to know if the papers are on file and whether she was entitled to any thing, or whether any thing has been ever paid.
Your attention will be thankfully acknowledged, as the family is in a dis- tressed situation.
The business was first taken in hand by Mr Jacob Byrum who employed Mr Green.
Yrs &c Gno F Hughes
To the P Office. Washington City,

Hon A. H. Armstrong Feb 20

Pension Office Feby 20. 45.
Sir
I have the honor to state that the papers in the case of Sarah Brinkley widow of Aaron Brinkley claiming a pension under the Act of July 4 th 36 have been examined and filed. The date of the marriage & identity are sufficiently proved but the Declaration does not set forth with precision the various terms of service their commencement ending and peculiar character with the names of the Officers commanding and the stations at which the service was rendered, as required by the regulations of this Dept. With the meager statement contained in the Declaration it is impossible to make the requisite examination.
Honble A. H. Armstrong H of Rep.
Reg. for this case under act July 4 th 36

Wm. A. H. Harrington March 11. '65

213 Pension Office March 11 1845
Sir,
In answer to your letter of the 3 rd inst I have the honor to inform you that the claim of Sarah Prinkley an applicant for a pension was examined on the 20 th inst and the result communicated to you. A copy of that communication is herewith enclosed.
Hon A. H. Arlington Hillsboro town N. C.

Pension Office Feby. 19 th 1846
Sir,
I have the honor to inform you that the Affiant of Thomas Pittman offers no additional evidence in the case of Sarah Brumley.
This Witness swears that he was well acquainted with Aaron Brumley Claimants husband and that he Brumley served 6 months in 1777 under Capt Cole, in Genl. Washingtons Regiment and other other Generals. This statement shows a total ignorance of the Organization as well as of the service of the Militia of Virginia. There were no terms of 6 months duration. They were limited to 3 months, and one witness whose testimony is filed with Mrs Brumleys papers swears that he served with her husband under Capt Cole and that that service was 4 weeks only. It is deemed unnecessary to state that Genl. Washington, instead of being in command of a Militia Regiment, was at that time, Commander in Chief of the Army of the United States.
No term of service in this case has been sufficient

or established as required by the regulations. Nor is it believed that applicant will be able to show that her husband performed as much as 6 mo service her claim, therefore is disallowed
Wm. A. H. Darling Secy Feb 9: 46
Hon A. H. Armstrong Hilland Dept Nash Co NE

em
Jan. 11/83.

Pension Office. 11 th Jany. 1855.
Sir,
In reply to yours of 16 th instants, I would inform you that the claim of Sarah Brinkley widow of Aaron of North Carolina, cannot be reported to you unless you file a Power of Attorney, recently executed, authorizing your agency.
Jacob Byrum Esq. Sparta. N.C.

Dec 5/82

Pension Office.
5 th Decr. 1854.
Sir,
The claim of Sarah Brinkley widow of Aaron of North Carolina, is on file in this Office, but has never been allowed.
The condition in which it now is cannot be reported to you, unless you first file here a Power of Attorney authorizing your agency.
John H. Hughes Esqr. Sparta. N.C.

Wm H. S. Clark Feb 27: 46

Pension Office February 27 1846
Sir,
In reply to your letter of the 10 th inst. I have the honor to enclose herewith a Copy of My report in the Case of Sarah Brinkley dated 9 th of this Month addressed to Hon A. H. Arrington from which you will learn the situation of her application for a pension as the widow of Aaron Brinkley.
Mr Bynum's letter is herewith returned
Hon Henry S. Clark, House of Reps,

Sir
Dear Sir June 9th, 47
The deposition of Thomas Pullman in the case of Sarah Brinkley in explanation of a previous one is filed with the other papers. It is wholly unsatisfactory. — If the Magistrate should so far misapprehend his statements as to make him say that her husband served 6 mos under Capt. Cole of the Hansonwood Militia in the vest of Genl. Washington when he intended to say that he had served a term of 3 mos under Capt. Cole & another of 3 mos under Capt. Reddick be without assurance is there that the statement now put forth for him & subscribed by his crop mark is what he intends to testify — But Jeremiah Peel who rec d a pension for services under Capt. Cole shows that it was 6 weeks & consequently

if he was out but for one other of 3 mos, the aggregate is less than the minimum provision of the Pension laws —
No term of service is specified & made out as the rules required except the six weeks at Port- mouth under Capt Cole —
It does not appear that Pittman was ever in service or that he was old enough in a position to know the service of his hus- band
June 1 - 17
Thos Green Esq Present

29 Oct 1850

Pension Office 29 th , Oct. 1850
Sir:
The additional evidence in the case of Sarah Brinkley transmitted by you, has been examined and filed.
The affiant, Elijah Denny, asserts previously that Aaron Brinkley did serve 6 months, but how he knows such to be the fact he does not state, nor does he relate one incident of any of his terms which might indicate a personal knowledge of the fact. Such loose and vague declarations, made too, by one who does not appear himself to have been in the service, can not be regarded as of any weight.
Thomas Green Esq
Present.

1861, 1862
Jan. 30 1861.

Pension Office.
30 th Jany. 1855.
Sir,
The letter of Mr. J. L. Bridger relating to the claim of Sarah Brinkley widow of Aaron of North Carolina, is herewith returned.
This claim has never been allowed. The difficulty existing to the admission of the claim, is, that Aaron's services as a revolutionary soldier have not been proved. The evidence upon that point is wholly insufficient. Some proof of his services may be found in the office of the Auditor of Accounts at Richmond Va, as it is alleged they were rendered in Virginia. Evidence should be added as to the date of Sarah's death; and the names and number of her surviving children.
Hon. J. Ruffin. House of Reps.

Mrs. J. Ruffin Feb. 15/85.

Pension Office February 5, 1855.
Sir,
In reply to your communication of the 2 d instant, I have the honor to state that John H. Hughes, Esq. of Washington, in the State of North Carolina, is the attorney in the case of Sarah Brinkley, an applicant for pension under act of 4 th July 1836
Very respectfully, GC
Hon. J. Ruffin, } House of Reps }

John D. Hughes Jan. 1883

Pension Office, February 28 th 1865
Sir,
The enclosed copy of a letter to Hon. J. Ruffin, of the House of Representatives, dated January 30, 1855 will inform you of the con- dition of the claim of Sarah Brinkley, widow of Aaron Brinkley, of North Carolina, under act July 4. 1836. Very respectfully Yc
John F. Hughes Washington, North Carolina

Feb. 11/95

Pension Office
Feby 19 1853
Sir
I have the honor to inform you that on the 30th ult I replied to your communi- cation of the 26th ult in relation to the case of Sarah Brinkley of D.C., of that report  which  reached  you  to  give  you  re- turning  for  information  on  the  matter  to  you take  to  you  in  the  matter  you  immediately , A copy of which report I herewith en- close.
Hon. Thos. Russell My Dear Sir,

June 16 '55.

Pension Office
June 16 1855
Sir
The case of Sarah Brinkley of Ohio has not been admitted for the reason, so often given to the various Agents who have had charge of it. The service of her husband has not been satisfactorily shown.
The papers cannot be returned.
William R Edwards Esq Sparta N.C.

Sparta Me Jan 6.
Free
Sarah Wrinkley
Me. Jan 10 36
J P Waldo Esq.
Comm r . of Pension Office Dep t . of the Int r Washington City D.C.

Dear Sir.
Sparta. N.C. Jan 6. 1855
The papers relative to the Pension of Aaron Brinkly dec d in favor of his wife Sarah is on file I understand in your office, according to a letter you address d to J F Hughes 5 th Dec r 1854. whom I requested to write you on the subject.
It appears from your letter to him that the claim has never been allow d . Will you be so good as to inform me what other proof is necessary in order to obtain the Pension.
I have a power of Atty given me by Sarah Brinkly to attend to the business. dated 9 th Nov. 1844. Cannot you ascertain what evidence is lacking, and if any, I will send on my power of Atty, or will send it if you require it before.
Yours Truly
Jacob Byrum

House of Representatives January 13 th & 6 th 1855.
Hon. L. P. Waldo Commissioner of Pensions
Sir:
I inclose herewith a letter from John L. Bridgers Esq. requesting information relative to the application for a pension made in behalf of the widows of Aaron Brenkley a revolutionary soldier. You will please inform me of the condition in which the case now stands, and give me the information asked for in the letter of Mr. Bridgers. I have the honor to be very respectfully
Yours &c Thos. Ruffin

State of North Carolina } Edgecombe County } SS
Be it known that on the 3 rd day of December 1845 personally appeared before me Simon S Dunn a Justice of the peace in and for the county and state aforesaid Thomas Dittman of the said county and state aged 85 years the 9 th of August next who having first been duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following statement - That he was acquainted with Aaron Brinkley, and that he the said Aaron Brinkley, Did serve in the revolutionary war six months under Capt Alston Leale in Gen Washington Regiment and under other Generals in the state of Va in the year of 1777 and that he the said Aaron Brinkley was stationed at Suffolk - Norfolk Portsmouth Hower's mill and Young and a place called the large rocks and other places and he the said Dittman further states that he never knew but the one Aaron Brinkley and that he was well acquainted with him and his wife Sarah Brinkley who is now the widow of the said Aaron Brinkley
Witness Simon S Dunn
Thomas his Dittman mark
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written before me and I further certify that the said Thomas Dittman who

signature is here written in a creditable witness, L. S. Dunn
State of North Carolina Edgecombe County
I, John Norfleet Glenn of the Court of Pleas, and quarter Sessions for said County, do hereby certify that Lemuel S. Dunn, whose genuine signature, is subscribed to the above affidavit, and before whom the said affidavit purports to have been made, is now, and at the time of signing the same, a lawful acting Justice of the Peace in & for said County, duly Commissioned and sworn, and that full faith and credit are due and ought to be given to all his official acts
Given under my hand and seal, of office, at Tarboro, this the 5 th day of January A.D. 1825
John Norfleet Glenn

Washington 25 March 1850
Col. J. L. Edwards
Sir
I now, at the urgent request of Jacob Bryson, of Spartan S.C. enclose you the affidavit of Elijah Owens, in support of the application for a pension, of Sarah Brinkley, widow of Aaron Brinkley —
Your last letter to me on the subject was dated, 9 June 1847, I sent it to Jacob aforesaid, who has never returned it & I am unable to say whether this additional evidence contains any objections to the — I hope it does — as said Jacob, is exceedingly perverse — & I have some apprehensions of my having to pay him a pension, to get rid of him, unless your office shall discover merits in the claim, not heretofore discerned.
It does seem to me this affidavit does cover, with that heretofore filed, time enough for some allowances I therefore file it as additional evidence & respectfully ask your reconsideration of the application.
I am Yr. obed Servant.
Thomas Green

State of North Carolina } Edgecomb County }
Sarah Brinkly widow of Aaron Brinkly wishing to strengthen the affidavit given by her on the subject of her marriage with the said Aaron, personally appeared before me this day, who being first duly sworn according to Law, States that she the said Sarah Brinkly has no family Bible or other record to show that she was married to the said Aaron Brinkly and that she has to rely on such other evidence as she has obtained to prove her marriage.
Sarah Brinkly Sworn to and subscribed before me Jno F Hughes Justice of the Peace for the County of Edgecomb & State of North Carolina this 30 Jan y 1845 Jno F Hughes
State of North Carolina } Edgecomb County } I John Noflett Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for said County, do hereby Certify that John F Hughes whose signature is subscribed to the above Certificate, is a lawful acting Justice of the Peace for said County. Given under my hand and seal of office at Tarboro' this the 3rd Day of February A.D. 1845
John Noflett

State of North Carolina } Edgecombe County } SS
Be it known that on the 12 th day of December 1848 personally appeared before me John F. Hughes a Justice of the peace in and for the County and State aforesaid Elijah Owens of the said County and State aged eighty five years in Frederick next who having first been duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following statement that he was acquainted with Aaron Brinkley and that he the said Brinkley did serve in the revolutionary war in actual service six months in Cumberland Co Va under Capt William Ely six weeks and under Capt Abram Brantley six weeks and under Capt Abner Cole six weeks and under Capt Wells eight weeks and was stationed at Norfolk Suffolk and Portsmouth in the year of 1777 a part of the time under Gen Stevens and a the other part under Gen Mulingborge
Test Jno F Hughes.
his Elijah Owens mark
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year a forewritten before me and I further certify that said Owens whose signature is a true written is a creditable witness, J F Hughes (JP)

State of North Carolina Edgecomb County
I, John Norfleet Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions, of the county aforesaid do hereby certify that, John H. Hough whose name is subscribed on the preceding page is a justice of the peace for said county duly commissioned and qualified by law to administer oaths, and that the preceding, is his genuine signature. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto sub- scribed my name and affixed my seal of office, at Tarborough, this the 15 day of December 1848.
John Norfleet Clerk By W. D. Dyer D. C.

State of North Carolina } Edgecombe County }
By the request of the said Sarah Brinkly, widow of Aaron Brinkly decd. Elias Owens whose affidavit was given before me in her favor 18 th Nov 1844, was again interrogated before me this day, and the said Elias Owens who having been duly sworn, first according to Law, doth on Oath make the following Statement, viz That he saw the said Aaron Brinkly, during the revolutionary war under arms with other soldiers at the following places in Virginia. To wit. At Black Water, John Day's Mill, & Jerico near Suffolk. Va. & 30 th Jan y 1845 that the said Aaron Brinkly was more than six months in the service.
Just J. F. Hughes (JP)
Sworn to and subscribed on the 30 th Jan y 1845 before me by making his mark.
Jno F. Hughes (JP)
State of N. Carolina } Edgecombe County }
I John Hughes Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for said County, do hereby certify that John F. Hughes whose genuine signature is subscribed to the above Certificate, is a lawful acting Justice of the Peace, in & for said County sworn under my hand & seal of office at Tarboro' this the 2nd. Day of Feby. A.D. 1845 J. F. Hughes Clerk

House of Reps Feb 10 th 1846
Hon. J. L. Edwards
Sir.
I have received a letter from one of my constituents, asking information about the present state of an application for a Pension, to your department, in favour of Sarah Brinkley, widow of Aaron Brinkley, made by my predecessor, the Hon. A. H. Armstrong.
Will you be so kind as to enable me to answer his inquiry. By so doing you will much oblige
Yours very Respectfully Henry S. Clark

Richd 31 May 1847.
Col. J. L. Edwards Nashville.
Sir.
I enclose you the amended affidavit of Thomas Pittman, as evidence in the case of Mrs. Sarah Brinkley of N. Ca. under act 7 July 1838 as widow of Asa.
I send also, sundry affidavits in regard to his credibility & standing. I do this, at the request of J. By whom the agent in the case I am very respectfully Thomas Green

Hillsboro' N.C. May 12 th 45.
Sir,
Enclosed you will receive testimony in the case of Mrs. Sarah Brubaker, who is an applicant for a pension which in addition to that already furnished I presume will be sufficient to entitle her to procure a certificate. After examining and deciding upon her case then will inform you of the result as early as practicable.
Respectfully A. H. Armstrong
J. L. Edwards Esq. Commr. of Pensions.

State of North Carolina § 55. Edycomb County
Be it known that on this 7 th day of November A D 1846, personally appeared before me, Jas F. Hughes one of the acting Justices of the Peace, in and for the aforesaid County & State, Thomas Pittman of said County & State, aged Eighty five years last August, Who being first duly sworn according to Law, doth on his oath, make the following statement. (to wit - That he knew and was acquainted with Aaron Brinkly, and that the said Brinkly served as a soldier in the Revolutionary war in the year 1777. That the said Brinkly served under Capt Abram Cole at Norfolk North mouth, Va, a tour of three months, and under Capt Reddick at Suffolk, Stony Mill, Old Town & the 'large Rock,' Va another tour of three months - In an affidavit given by the said Thomas Pittman about a year ago which is now in the pension office, The said Pittman stated that the "said Brinkly served 6 months in 1777, under Capt Cole, in Genl Washington Regiment and under other Generals" - This part of his statement he has corrected in the above statement - He said that the Justice of the Peace misunderstood him on that point, being quite unwell at the time and also ignorant of the organization of the Army, altho' a soldier in it, but without education - He does does not recollect the general who commanded - In the affidavit referred to, the said Pittman stated that Brinkly served six months under Capt Cole - He has also corrected this in the above statement and states that the Justice of the Peace misunderstood him also on that point - Further the deponent saith not.
continued (over)

Thomas his Pittman mark
The a fore said Thomas Pittman subscribed his name to the above statement, (after being read to him) in my presence this 7 th day Nov 1846. I also swore to it — J. P. Hughes one of the acting Justices of the Peace in & for The County & State aforesaid —
From my enquiries about the said Pittman, I am warranted in certifying that he is a credible witness. J. P. Hughes (J. P.)
State North Carolina Edgecombe County. ss. 3
William Webb, a resident of the above County & State personally appeared before me this day and stated on oath that he has long been acquainted with Thomas Pittman, whose affidavit is given above, & that the said Pittman has the character of being a man of truth and veracity and that confidence may be placed in his statement as regards the services rendered by Aaron Brumley in the revolutionary war,

The said Webb states his own age to be about forty six years.
Test J. F. Hughes W
Wm Webb mark
I hereby certify that the above named Wm Webb, is a creditable witness.
State of North Carolina
J. F. Hughes (W)
Eddycomb County. S
Abraham Jones, aged about Fifty five years, a resident of the County State aforesaid, after being duly sworn, states that he has long known Thomas Pittman, and believes that he is a man of truth and that confidence can be placed in whatever he states relative to the services of Aaron Brinkley in the revolutionary war. 13 Nov 1846.
Test J. F. Hughes W
Abraham Jones mark
I hereby certify that the above named Abraham Jones is a creditable witness.
J. F. Hughes (W)
State of North Carolina
Eddycomb County. S
William Ellis, aged thirty nine years, a resident of the County State aforesaid, after being duly sworn, states that he has been long acquainted with Thomas Pittman, and believes him to be a man of truth, and that full confidence can be placed in whatever he states relative to the services rendered by Aaron Brinkley in the revolutionary war.
Nov. 13 th 1846.
Wm Ellis mark
Test J. F. Hughes. W
I hereby certify that the above named Wm Ellis is a creditable witness.
J. F. Hughes (W)
continued (over)

State of N. Carolina Guadalupe County
I John Moffat, Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions of said County, do hereby certify that John W. Hughes whose genuine signature are subscribed to the foregoing affidavits of Thomas P. Warren, Thaddeus Jones and William Ellis is a lawful acting justice of the Peace and for said County, duly commissioned and sworn as such
Given under my hand and seal of office, at Salem, this the 20th day of November
A.D. 1821
John Moffat Clerk

Hilliards in Nash County N.C. Decr. 12 th 1845-
Sir,
Enclosed I send you some additional evidence in the case of Mrs. Sarah Brinkley whose application for a Pension was made to you, through me some time during the last Congress — You will please examine this additional testimony in connection with that which has already been furnished and have her application decided upon as early as practicable and inform Mr. Jacob Byrum, who lives near Sparta, in the county of Edgecombe N.C. of the result.
I oblige Respectfully your ob. sl. A.H. Arrington
To, J. L. Edwards Esqr. Comr of Pensions

State of- North Carolina
Edgecombe county } SS
Be it known that on the 5 th day of may one thousand eight hundred & forty five (1845-) personally appeared before me Wright Barnes a Justice of the peace in and for the county and state aforesaid Elias Owens of the said county and state aged about eighty four years, who- having first been duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the follow- ing statement- That he was acquainted with Aaron Brinkley and his wife Sarah Brinkley, that he knew the said Aaron Brinkley to some in the revolutionary war under capt. William Ely six weeks at Jerry- co- and under capt. John Purdie six weeks at Pawtuxet N.C. and under capt. Abraham Rose in a tower of- six weeks at- Pawtuxet N.C. the said Owens states that he does not recollect the date of- the said Brinkley's service tho' he knew said Brinkley to some at different times during the war and after the close of- the war that the said Brinkley with his wife and children removed to North Carolina and there lived together as man and wife until the death of- said Brinkley and that his widow has never since been married and that he was well acquainted with Aaron Brinkley both in the state of- Virginia and in the state of- North Carolina and that the said Brinkley died in one mile

of the said Elias and that he never knew under the one Aaron Brinkley and further deponent - sith not - Elias his mark witness Wright Barnes J.P.
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written be fore me and of further certify that the said Elias Owens is a credible witness whose signature is a true Wright Barnes J.P. Clerk
State of North Carolina Edgewater County
I John Norfleet, Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for said County, do hereby certify that Wright Barnes, whose genuine signature is subscribed to the above affidavit of Elias Owens, is a lawful acting Justice of the Peace, in & for said County, duly commissioned and sworn, and that full faith and credit are due, and ought to be given to all his official acts -
In testimony whereof, I have set my hand and affixed my seal of office at Tarboro, this the 5 th day of May A.D. 1845 Jno. Norfleet (Clerk)

Honor of Reps-
March 3 rd 45-
Sir,
Will you do me the favor to inform me as to the prospect of Mrs Mary Brantleys application for a pension I filed her papers for  without the 12 th of Feb y last - If the evidence is not sufficient let me know what further proof is required. an early answer, will oblige me Yours M c S t A H Atkinson
J. L. Edwards Esq. } Comt ee of Pensions }

House of Representatives February the 18 th 1856.
Hon Josiah Minot - Commissioner of Pensions Dear Sir:
I herewith enclose to you a letter from a constituent of mine, requesting me to obtain certain information. You will please inform me on all the points suggested in the letter. I have the honor to be
Very respectfully
Yours -
Thos. Ruffin

June 26. 1846
parta N.O Aug. 25 th
Paid 5 c
viaa der care
Ames
Edwades Esq r Commissioner of Pensions Washington City
12 1/2

Sparta Edgecombe County N.C. January the 20 th 1846
my Dear Sir if you please let me hear from that last additional testimony sent on to you by Mr A. H. Arrington in the behalf of Miss Sarah Brinkley Mr Arrington I have no doubt requested you to write to me and to acquaint me of the result This I hope that you will do without delay as Mr Arrington is gone from home and Miss Brinkley is anchoring to here from her case the testimony was started to you the 15 th of December last which is one month & five days - since I want to hear whether you received it or not and the result of it etc I am very respectfully your obedient servant
Jacob Byrum

6394.
Sarah Brinkley Aaron N. B.
Act 4 th July '36

House of Reps Feb 7 12:45-
Sir,
Enclosed I send you the declaration (and evidence accompanying) of Mrs Sarah Brinkley which you will please examine and let me know the result as early as practicable and oblige
Respectfully A. H. Armstrong