Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W 18578, William Benedict, Conn.

SERVICE
NUMBER
Conn.
Benedict, William
W. 18578
Ruth
CONTENTS

20643 New York William Benedict Resides in the State of New York who was a Private in the Comp. command. of Captain Hecker of the Regt. command. of Col. Chandler in the Cont. line for State term
Inscribed on the Roll of New York at the rate of 80 Dollars — Cents per annum to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 26 day of Sep. 1833 and due to S. Fitch Col. Pension Co. do
Arrears to the 4th of Sep. 31 $ 200 Semi-ant. allowance ending A. N. 34 40 $ 240
Recorded by { Revolutionary Claim, Act June 7, 1832. Co. C. Stiles Clerk Book 6. Vol. 1. Page 48.

adm a 24 mo. per 80 $

Declaration of William Benedict under the Pension Law of June 7. 1832
State of New York Genesee County ss: }
On this seventeenth day of October A.D. 1832 personally appeared in open Court before the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas of the aforesaid County, now sitting William Benedict a resident of the Town of Alexander in said County and State aforesaid aged Seventy Four years who being first duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed June 7 th 1832.
That he was born at Danbury in the State of Connecticut on the Sixteenth day of November in the year 1758 — That he first entered the service of the United States as a Minuteman in the Town of Danbury and State of Connecticut in the Summer of the year 1775 and was drilled three days in a week by order of Gen. Washington under Capt. Hicken, and Sergeant Fay for the term of two months, and received pay as a Militia man. That in January in the year 1776 he enlisted under Capt. Noble, Benedict of Danbury in the State of Connecticut, in Col. Chandler's Regiment and under Gen. Waterbury, and was marched down to the city of New York, where he staid two months and was then discharged, while there he was stationed at the Barracks, and was engaged in building a Fort - and in demolish- ing an old fortification. That in the fall of the same year, he was on duty two months at Fair- field in the State of Connecticut under Capt. Parley of New Fairfield in the same State. That he was stationed there with others to guard the place against the expected attacks of the British - That in the spring of the year 1777 he enlisted from Danbury in the State of Connecti- cut under Capt. Hicken of that town, and was

to P'keepsie in the State of New York, and was stationed there and in the vicinity, during the whole season, generally engaged in watching the move- ments of the British on the North River. Gen. Putnam had the general command, the adjutant of the Regiment to which he belonged was Lemuel Benedict. Does not recollect any other officers - was out this year something more than six months. That in the fall of the year 1778 Capt. Ezra Starr of Danbury in the State of Connecticut received orders from Gen. Washington to raise about 80 men for the purpose of seizing and taking from the town of Redding adjoining from 70 to 80 Tories and carry them to the a remote town called Mansfield. That he was one of the men who assisted Capt. Starr in this expedition, and that he was out about one month - That in the 20 th July - of the year 1779 enlisted from Danbury under Capt. Smyth Smith of Brookfield, and was marched to P'keepsie in the State of New York, made a short halt and was then marched to the Red Mills situated on what was then called Livingston Manor. to act as a guard to protect the Mills against the Tories. Served two months and was then discharged - That in the fall of 1780 he enlisted under Capt. D. Wimpstead of Richfield, and Lieut. Ellmer of Danbury in the State of Connecticut. was marched to Stratford, thence to Bridgeport halted a few days - and then marched to Nor- walk and staid the balance of the time. That he was out this year three months - and that this was only a Capt's Company - That in the year 1781 he went out as a substitute for Jonathan Griffin of Danbury in the State of Connecticut for a nine months tour. Was marched to Horsneck

While stationed there joined a company of Volunteers in July and marched to Middletown, and staid about one month, while there, was engaged in a skirmish with the Tories, when on a sergeant's guard, one was killed and two wounded - Then returned to Housatonic, and its vicinity and staid till his time had expired when he was discharged. That he does not recollect the names of any of his Officers except Gen. Swift, Col. Campbld of New Milford Gen. Putnam and Capt. H. of Danbury one Sergeant McCoy a British deserter -
That he has no documentary evidence, and that he knows of no one whose testimony he can procure who can testify to his service. That about fourteen years ago he came into the town where he now resides. Was living at Danbury in the State of Connecticut when called into service, Has lived since the revolutionary war in Winchester in the same state for about eight years - In New Marlborough in Berkshire County and State of Massachusetts about twenty nine years - And about fifteen years in the Town of Alexander and County of Greene in the State of New York - And never received a written discharge - That there is no clergyman in his neighborhood who is acquainted with him. That Eliphalet Peck and Charles Williams Dea. Wood live in his neighborhood and are acquainted with him and can testify as to character for veracity, and their belief in his services as a soldier of the Revolution.
He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity, except the present, and declares that his name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any state -
Subscribed & sworn to the days year aforesaid in open court Timothy Fitch Clerk
William Rexford

We Elisha Peck and Charles Williams — residing in the town of Alexander county of Genesee and State of New York hereby certify that we are well acquainted with William Benedict who has submitted an oath to the above declaration, that we believe him to be about Twenty Four years of age that he is respected and believed in the neighborhood where he resides to have been a soldier of the revolution, and that we concur in that opinion —
Sworn and Subscribed the day and year aforesaid in open Court Timothy Fitch Clerk
Elisha Peck his Charles Williams Mark
And the said Court do hereby declare their Opinion after the investigation of the matter and after putting the interrogatories for- scribed by the War Department, that the above named Applicant was a revolutionary soldier and served as he states had the Court further certifies that it appears to them that Elisha Peck & Charles Williams residing in the Town of Alexander who have signed the foregoing certificate are credible persons and that their statement is entitled to credit.
Isaac Wilson Robert Darrow William Mitchell
I Timothy Fitch Clerk of the court of common Pleas of Genesee County do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said court in the matter of the application of William Benedict for a pension
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal of office this 17 th day of October 1832
Timothy Fitch Clerk

B State of New York } Genesee County ss } Eliphalet Peck being duly sworn deposes and says that he is of the age of Seventy four Years that he now resides in the Town of Alexander that he is acquainted with William Benedict the person mentioned in the above and foregoing application that in the beginning of the Year 1778 he enlisted in the same Company with the said William from the Town of Danbury in the State of Connecticut and that he was out with him two months that in the Year 1781 as he thinks but is not certain he was out with the said William for nine months, and that he knows that the said William served him twelve at that time. And further says not. According to his best recollection he has no doubt of the length but cannot say positively Eliphalet Peck
State of New York } Genesee County ss } Be it remembered that on this 4 th day of June One Thousand Eight Hundred and thirty three personally came before me the under named Justice, Eliphalet Peck to me known to be the person who subscribed the foregoing affidavit. And makes solemn oath to the truth of the matters therein contained. And I hereby certify that I am acquainted with said Peck and that he sustains a fair character for truth and veracity — James R. Parkman J.P.

State of New York Genesee County p: }
Personally appeared before me the undersigned a justice of the Peace for said County - William Benedict who being duly sworn depones and saith that by reason of old age and the consequent loss of memory he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of time his service; but according to the best of his recollection he served not less than the period mentioned below in the following grades: For two years and three months as a private, and for such service I claim a pension. - And he further says that he has no record of his age.
William Benedict
Subscribed and
sworn this 4-day
of June 1833 before me
James R. Jackson J.P.
State of New York Genesee County p: I, Timothy Fitch Clerk of said County certify that James R. Jackson an before whom the foregoing affidavit purport to have been taken and made was was on the day of taking the same a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, and that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of said Justice and verily believe his name subscribed to the said affidavit to be genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my name and seal of Office at Batavia this twelfth day of June A.D. 1833
Timothy Fitch Clerk By B. Pringle Deputy

No 18283
William Benedict Genesee County New York
C. J.
Timothy Fitch Esq. Genesee County, New York
Wats

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office,
Sir:
The evidence in support of your claim, under the act of June 7, 1832, has been examined, and the papers are herewith returned. The following is a statement of your case in a tabular form. On comparing these papers with the following rules, and the subjjoined notes, you will readily perceive that objections exist, which must be removed, before a pension can be allowed. The notes and the regulations will shew what is necessary to be done. These points to which your attention is more particularly directed, you will find marked in the margin with a brace, (thus: { ). You will, when you return your papers to this Department, send this printed letter with them; and you will, by complying with this request, greatly facilitate the investigation of your claim.
A Statement, showing the Service of William Benedict Genesee County New York
   Period when the service was rendered Duration of the claimant's service Rank of the claimant. Names and Rank of the Company officers under whom he served. Names and Rank of the General and Field officers. Battles in which the applicant was engaged. Country through which he marched. Place of abode when he entered the service, and age at the present period. Evidence by which the declaration is supported.   Years. Months. Days.     Enlisted Decr. 1775 - 2 - private Capt. Hichens Genl Washington - Was drilled by order of Genl Washington & payed for 74 years Danbury Connecticut Traditionary witness credible & one living Witness, not sworn, for credible   Enlisted Decr 1776 - 2 7 private Capt. Noble & Benedict Col. Chandler - Marched to New York at Danbury Connecticut No minister or quartermaster to certify for him   Discharged Decr 1776 - 2 - private Capt. Hardy - Marched to Fishkill N.Y. taking Vally Forge to Mansfield papers not properly attached   Enlisted Spring 1777 - 6 - private Capt. Hichens Genl Putnam - Marched to Red Bank, Pa. & Red Bank   Discharged Decr 1778 - not stated - private Capt. Hove - Marched to Red Bank, Pa. & Red Bank   Enlisted 1779 - 2 - private Capt. Smith - Marched to Red Bank, Pa. & Red Bank   Enlisted Decr 1780 - 3 - private Capt. Mansfield - Marched to Red Bank, Pa. & Red Bank   Sub. 1781 - 9 - private - Genl Swift Col. Langfield Col. Putnam - Marched to Red Bank, Pa. & Red Bank  
I am, respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
J. L. EDWARDS, Commissioner of Pensions.

REGULATIONS UNDER THE ACT OF JUNE 7, 1832.
The following regulations have been adopted:
This law has been construed to extend, as well to the line, as to every branch of the Staff of the Army, and to include under the terms "Continental Line," "State troops," "militia," and "volunteers," all persons enlisted, drafted, or who volunteered and who were bound to military service, but not those who were occasionally employed with the army upon civil contracts, such as Clerks to Commissaries and to Store Keepers, &c. Teamsters, Boatmen, &c. Persons who served on board of Private Armed Vessels are also excluded from the benefits of the law, as well as persons who turned out as patrols, or were engaged in guarding particular places at night, and were not recognized as being in actual military service.
Four general classes of cases are embraced in this law:
 1. The Regular Troops.  2. The State Troops, Militia, and Volunteers.  3. Persons employed in the Naval service.  4. Indian Spies. 
As rolls of the regular troops in the Revolutionary War exist in this Department, all persons, claiming the benefit of this law as officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians or privates, will in the first instance, make application by transmitting the following declaration, which will be made before a Court of Record of the County where such applicant resides. And every Court having by law a seal and Clerk is considered a Court of Record.
DECLARATION,
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress of the 7th of June, 1832.
State, Territory, or District of } ss. County of }
On this _____ day of _____ personally appeared (a) before A. B. a resident (b) of _____ in the county of _____ and State, Territory or District of _____ aged (c) _____ years, who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed June 7th, 1832. That he enlisted in the Army of the United States in the year (d) _____, with _____ and served in the _____ (e) regiment of the _____ line, under the following named officers:
[Here set forth the names and rank of the Field and Company Officers; the time he left the service; (and if he served under more than one term of enlistment, he must specify the particular period, and rank and names of his officers;) the town or county and State in which he resided when he entered the service; the battles, if any, in which he was engaged, and the country through which he marched. This form is to be varied so as to apply to the cases of officers and persons who belonged to the militia, volunteers, navy, &c. ]
He hereby relinquishes every claim (f) whatever to a pension or an annuity, except the present, and he declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of any Agency in any State, or (if any) only on that of the Agency in the State of _____
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
A. B.
[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion (g) that the above named applicant was a revolutionary soldier, and served as he states.
I, _____ of the Court of _____ do hereby certify (h) that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of _____ for a pension.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office (i) this day of _____ &c.
If, on examination of the proper record the names of applicants, making such declaration, cannot be found, they will produce such proof as the rule given in note (j) points out.
Every applicant who claims a pension by virtue of service in the State Troops, Volunteers or Militia, except those who belonged to the New Hampshire Militia and State Troops of Virginia, will make and subscribe a declaration similar to the foregoing, with the following additions, viz:
(k) We, A. B., a Clergyman, residing in the _____ and C. D. residing in (the same) _____, who has hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with _____, who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be _____ years of age; that he is reputed and believed, in the neighborhood where he resides, to have been a soldier of the Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion.
Sworn and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary Soldier, and served as he states. And the Court further certifies, that it appears to them that A. B.
who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman, resident in the _____ and that C. D., who has also signed the same is a resident in the _____ and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
I, _____ Clerk of the Court of _____ do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of _____ for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, this _____ day of _____ &c.
Every applicant will produce the best proof in his power. This is the original discharge or commission; but if neither of these can be obtained, the party will so state under oath, and will then procure, if possible, the testimony of at least one credible witness, stating in detail his personal knowledge of the services of the applicant, and such circumstances connected therewith, as may have a tendency to throw light upon the transaction.
If such surviving witness cannot be found, the applicant will so state in his declaration (l) and he will also, whether he produce such evidence or not, proceed to relate all the material facts, which can be useful in the investigation of his claim, and in the comparison of his narrative with the events of the period of his alleged service, as they are known at the Department. A very full account of the services of each person

will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case. The facts stated will afford one of the principal means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition, if one be attempted; and unless, therefore, these are amply and clearly set forth, no favorable decision can be expected. All applicants will appear before some Court of Record in the County, in which they reside, and there subscribe and be sworn to, one of the declarations above provided, according to the nature of his case.
The Court will propound the following ( m ) interrogatories to all applicants for a pension, on account of service in the Militia, State troops, or Volunteers, except the Militia of New Hampshire and the State troops of Virginia.
 1. Where and in what year were you born?  § 2. Have you any record of your age, and if so, where is it?  3. Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary war, and where do you now live?  4. How were you called into service; were you drafted, did you volunteer, or were you a substitute? And if a substitute, for whom?  5. State the names of some of the Regular Officers, who were with the troops, where you served; such Continental and Militia Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your services.  6. { To a Soldier. } Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if so, by whom was it given and what has become of it? { To an Officer. } Did you ever receive a commission, and if so, by whom was it signed, and what has become of it?  7. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood, and who can testify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution. 
The Court will see that he answers to these questions are embodied in the declaration, and they are requested to annex their opinions of the truth of the statement of the applicant.
The applicant will further produce in Court, if the same can be done, in the opinion of the Court, without too much expense and inconvenience to him, two respectable persons—one of whom should be the nearest clergyman, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of such applicant, who can testify, from their acquaintance with him, that they believe he is of the age he represents, and that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood to have been a Revolutionary soldier, and that they concur in that opinion. If one of these persons is a Clergyman, the Court will so certify, and they will also certify, to the character and standing of other persons, giving such certificates.
The traditional evidence of service is deemed very important, in the absence of any direct proof, except the declaration of the party. And the Courts are requested to be very particular in the enquiry whether the belief is general, and whether any doubts have ever existed upon the subject.
Applicants unable to appear in Court by reason of bodily infirmity, may make the declaration before required, and submit to the examination, before a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record of the proper county, and the Judge or Justice will execute the duties, which the Court is herein requested to perform, and will also certify that the applicant cannot, from bodily infirmity, attend the Court.
Whenever any official act is required to be done by a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or by a Justice of the peace, the certificate of the Secretary of State or Territory, or of the proper Clerk of the Court or County, under his seal of office, will be annexed, stating that such person is a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or a Justice of the Peace, and that the signature annexed is his genuine signature.
No payments can be made on account of the services of any person, who may have died before the taking effect of the act of June 7, 1832; and in case of death subsequent thereto, and before the declaration herein required is made, the parties interested will transmit such evidence as they can procure, taken and authenticated before a Court of Record, showing the services of the deceased, the period of his death, the opinion of the neighborhood respecting such services, the title of the claimant, and the opinion of the Court upon the whole matter.
[a] The declarant must appear in open Court, unless prevented from doing so by reason of bodily infirmity; in which case the declarant will follow the rule laid down for his guidance.
[b] The declarant must make his declaration in the county where he resides. If he should fail to do so, he must assign a sufficient reason for not conforming to the rule.
[c] The age of the claimant must invariably be mentioned.
[d] The declarant must mention the period or periods of the war when he served.
[e] Every continental officer or soldier must give the name of the Colonel under whom he served; otherwise a satisfactory examination of the claim cannot be had. Every claimant must state, with precision, the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the Department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled. In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the loss of memory, state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words:
"Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service; but, according to the best of his recollection, he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades:—For _____ year _____ months, and _____ days, I served as a _____ For _____ months and _____ days, I served as a _____; and for such service I claim a pension."
It is important, in all cases, to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service. The use of the phrase about three or four months , in the militia, &c. without specifying the tours, the names of the officers, and other particulars respecting their service. This form of a declaration is highly objectionable. It must, in every case, be clearly shown under what officers the applicant served; the duration of each term of engagement; the particular place or places where the service was performed; that the applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by competent authority; that he was either in the field or in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil pursuit.
[f] The law makes the relinquishment indispensable.
[g] The opinion of the Court is always required.
[h] The Clerk must give his certificate in every case.
[i] The Clerk must affix his seal, and if it has no device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal, or if he has no public seal of office, the certificate of a Member of Congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should accompany the papers.
Mode of authenticating papers.
In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticates the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which contains the affidavit, or other papers authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon, the ends of which must pass under the seal of office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any paper from being improperly attached to the certificate.
Proof of Service.
[j] In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses, who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of the claimant's entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged. The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
§ The notes from [a] to [i] are all equally applicable to the cases of Militia men, Volunteers and State Troops. The proof required by rule in note [j] applies to continental troops only.
[k] This traditional evidence is indispensable in militia cases.
[l] If a witness cannot be found, the declarant must state the fact.
§ [m] The answers to the interrogatories must all be written, and sent to the War Department, with the declaration.

State of New York Genesee County, Town of Alexander } ss: On the 31 st day of December in the year one thousand eight hundred and thirty eight, personally appeared before John Chatfield, one of the Judges of Genesee County Court, Ruth Benedict, a resident of the town of Alexander in the county of Genesee and State aforesaid aged Eighty six years, 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 entitled "An Act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows" That she is the widow of William Benedict, late of the town of Alexander in the said county, who was a Revo- lutionary soldier in the service of the United States, and served nine thousand two years as a private but the particulars of his service she cannot recollect or state as she knew nothing of them at the time and only by conversation with her late husband That her husband was a Pensioner under the act of Congress of the 7 th April 1832 and received a Pension until the time of his death of Eighty Dollars per annum and the proof of his service is on file in the Pension Department.
She further declares that she was married to the said William Benedict on the seventh day of February in the year one thousand seven hundred and eighty one in the town of New Milford, Fairfield county, Ct. by the Rev Brooks, whose christian name she cannot recollect and who is now dead: That she has no record of her marriage and believes that there is no record of her marriage in existence That Elisha Peck and Abigail, his wife, now residents of the town of Alexander were both present at the marriage of the Deponent to the said

William Benedict, whose affidavits are herunto annexed: That her said husband, the said William Benedict died on the fourth day of February in the year one thousand eight hundred and thirty six: That she was not married to him prior to his leaving the state, but the marriage took place previous to the first of January seven hundred and ninety four, viz at the time above stated. —
Sworn to and subscribed Ruth her Benedict on the day and year above written mark —
before me. — John Chatfield Jdgr of Greene County Court
I certify that the said Ruth Benedict made the foregoing declaration before me at her place of residence in Alexander, being unable to appear before a Court of Record on account of extreme old age and that she made her mark as above and stated that she never learned to write, and could not write her name. —
John Chatfield Jdgr of Greene County Court
State of New York } Greene County ss. }
On this 31 st December 1838 before me personally appeared Elizabeth Peck and Abigail  her his wife and being sworn to depose and say, the said Elizabeth Peck says that he is aged eighty years and the said Abigail Peck says she is aged seventy eight years and they both say that they were married on the first day of March in the year seven hundred and eighty
John Chatfield Jdgr of Greene County Court

one That these Deponents live in the same neighborhood with Widow Ruth Benedict, and her late husband William Benedict, of Alexander aforesaid, and were well acquainted and intimate with them from childhood. That these Deponents were present at the marriage of the said Widow Ruth Benedict to the said William Benedict, deceased, which was legally solemnized by the Rev. Brooks, in the town of New Milford, Fairfield County, Ct. That these Deponents well recollect the time of the marriage from the fact of these Deponents being married a short time afterwards, that the said Widow Ruth Benedict was married as aforesaid to the said William Benedict on the Seventh day of February in the year seven hundred and eighty one. And these Deponents further say that there was no Record of marriage kept in the said town at the time aforesaid and these Deponents believe that there is no Record of said marriage. And these Deponents further say that they have been acquainted with the said Ruth Benedict since the death of her said husband and that the said Ruth Benedict has not intermarried since the death of her husband and still remains a lawful Widow and further these Deponents say not.
Sworn and Subscribed      Eliphalet Peck
The day and year aforesaid
before me by the said
Eliphalet Peck and
Abigail Peck, the said Abigail
Peck making her mark, not being
able to write on account of old age,
John Chatfield
Judge of Green County Courts
And I certify that the said Eliphalet Peck and Abigail Peck are known to me and credible witnesses, of sound mind and memory.
John Chatfield Judge of Green County Courts

State of New York Greene County } ss
On this 31 st Decr 1838 personally appeared Benajah Benajah Benedict, who being sworn according to law deposes and says that he resides in Alexander in the said county and is the son of William Benedict, deceased, and Ruth Benedict, his present widow, and is aged 46 years. That his said mother, Ruth Benedict has lived with him since the death of her husband and has not intermarried but remains a widow. That the said William Benedict was a pensioner of the United States under the Act of 7 th April 1832 and received a pension of $80 per annum until the time of his death, and further that Deponent saith not. — Benajah Benedict
Sworn and Subscribed
The day and year aforesaid before me. — John Chatfield
Judge of Greene County Courts
5545
Ruth Benedict
And I certify that the said Benajah Benedict is known to me and is a credible witness and that his statement is entitled to credit.
John Chatfield
State of New York } ss Greene County }
Judge of Greene County Courts
I, Horace M. Soper, Clerk of said County certify that John Chatfield was a Judge of Greene County Courts at the time of taking the foregoing Declaration and affidavit and that the signatures subscribed to the foregoing Certificate are his hand writing. —
Witness my hand and official Seal this 1 st June 1839 —
H. M. Soper. Clerk
Act July 7. 1838
Amount of Est. 1781 Husband died Nov. 1. 1836
Index Ruth Benedict Declaration Affidavit
Witnesses Benedict

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
Washington, D. C. , _____, 19_____
In reply to your request of _____, received _____ for a statement of the military history of William Burdick a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired information as contained in his (or his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau.
Battles engaged in, _____
Residence of soldier at enlistment, _____
Date of application for pension, 1st Jan 1882
Residence at date of application, _____
Age at date of application, born at ... 1757
Remarks: did follow up 10/16
Respectfully,
Commissioner.

1914 July 31 Hish. to Mrs. Lora A. H. Underhill V. L. M. 1920 Feb 6 Hish. to Mrs. Julia B. Porter.
Ref WIDOW, &c. 18,578.
File No. 18578 Benth Benedict Widow of Wm Benedict Prim Rev. Wm
Act: Mar. 3 rd 1843
Index:—Vol. 11 , Page 53
[Arrangement of 1870.]

8312 albany New York
reps. 16 ap 44
Ruth Benedict widow of William Benedict who was a pensioner under the Act of 1832 and who died on the 4. Feby. 1836 of Seneca (in the State of NY) who was a Pvt in the Comp. commanded by Captain Hilex of the (Reg.) commanded by Col Chandler in the Conn. line for
Inscribed on the Roll of Albany at the rate of 30 Dollars 77 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.
Certificate of Pension issued the 16 day of April 1844 and sent to Herman Blodgett Alexander, NY.
Total Amount, $ 153.85
[Act July 7, 1838.]
Recorded by F. L. Mann Clerk, Book D. Vol. 1 Page 149.

5462
New York Albany
Mrs. Benedict widow of (late) Benedict Conn who was a Private in the Herkshire
Reported
Letter to Hon. Albert Smith 16. January 1845
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 30 Dollars Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843.
Certificate of Pension issued the 11th day of May, 1844 and sent to Woman Blodgett Alexander, Genesee Co. N.Y.
[Act of March 3, 1843.]
Recorded in Book Vol. 1 Page 259

Wm Benedict

State of Connecticut Comptroller's Office Hartford 25 th Dec r 1843
I certify on application for evidence in behalf of William Benedict, alleged to have been a soldier of the revolution under Capt. Hickox in 1775 two months - under Capt. Noble Benedict, Col. Chandler two months in 1776 - Capt. Parry two months in the fall of that year - Capt. Hickox in the spring of 1777 six months - Capt. Ezra Starr in 1778 - Capt. Smith two months in 1779 - Capt. Olmsted three months in 1780 - that I find but one Pay Roll containing his name. In 1779 there is filed, among the Pay Table papers, a "Pay Roll for Horse travel, Capt. David Hickox's Com- pany 16 th Regt., Commanded by Jeremiah Brattle Esq. Col., on an expedition to Fairfield - Dated 9 th July 1779" On this Pay Roll, or abstract, there is the following entry - "William Benedict 1 Horse, 50 miles travel. £ 7. 10 5/8"
There were several Capt. Smith in the service.
Capt. Dana Olmsted, of Buel's Regt. rendered his account, Jan 20 th 1781, for £ 1839. 11. 10. I find no Pay roll of either of said Companies, nor any mention of William Benedict except as above. Gilead Wells Compt.
* The service under Capt. Noble Benedict I am told has been certified.

Comptroller's Office
Hartford March 13 th 1841-
I certify that on application for evidence of the services of William Benedict who claims service in the Revolutionary War under Capt. Nicols 2 Mo in 1775 under Capt. Noble Benedict 2 Mo in 1776 and Capt. Purdy 2 Mo in the fall of the same Year Regimental officers not given, Capt. Nicols in the Spring of 1777 Regimental officers not given 6 Mo, Capt. Ezra Stari in 1778 kind of service not given - Capt. Smith in 1779 2 Mo Capt. Hunted in 1780 3 Mo and since the in 1781 his name not known. That I have examined the Books of Payrolls remaining in this office and find "A Pay Roll of Capt. Noble Benedict Co in the Regiment of Forces of the united Colonies under the Command of Col. David Waterbury raised in the Colony of Connecticut Commencing on the day on which they entered service and ending with time of their dismission including time for the discharge to get home - 6 Co 5 Regt from May 16 to July 5 Noble Benedict Captain Daniel Heavens Ensign. William Benedict private Commenced service May 12 th Time of discharge July 17 Having served 6 days Sixty & seven days that no Pay Rolls for the above named officers appears subsequent to 1775 that on Pay Table Book is the following Account
  Capt. Noble Benedict  Dr.    1776 To Order on Ter d for Ap d his Comp  £580. 0. 0    July 17   
over

That nothing appears on the Books remaining in this office either to confirm or discredit the alleged sums under Capt. Nicols in the Spring of 1777 or Capt. Ezra Stari in 1778 Capt. Smith in 1779 Capt. David Olmstead it appears was in service in 1780 & 81 at Greenwich his Account settled June 20 1781 Amount £1839-11-10
Henry Hudson Comp
Certificate of Compt. of Cl. as to remaining service William Br chief.

5575 Widow Benedict Certificate as to _____
H. W. Sofer Agent Palmer N.Y.
April 20
1872-1873 Normal Woman (Enth)

16 3/4
H. W. Loper Esq Batavia Genesee Co N.Y.

This may certify all whom it may concern &c. To hereby depose & say, that having been nearly twenty years pastor of the Congregational Church in Brookfield Fairfield County in the State of Connecticut, that during this period, no record of marriages earlier than the year eighteen hundred has been known to exist. If any was kept by Mr. Bradsby who was pastor of this Church for the forty years preceding, or by the civil officers of the town they are believed to be entirely lost. Brookfield Apr 13 - 1840.
Almon Bradsby
State of Connecticut County of Fairfield } p. Brookfield April 13 th 1840 Personally appeared before me the subscribing authority Rev. Almon Bradsby and made solemn affirmation to the truth of the foregoing affidavit - and I certify that the Rev. Almon Bradsby sustains a good character for truth and is a credible witness -
Bryant Smith Justice of the Peace State of Connecticut
Fairfield County } To Thomas Robinson Clerk of the County Court within and for the County of Fairfield in State. I hereby certify that Bryant Smith Esq. is now & since the 20 th day of June last past has been a Justice of the Peace for said County duly commissioned & acting as such, duly authorized to administer oaths and take acknowledgment of deed. That his commission is dated the 29 th day of May 1839 & will expire with the 19 th day of June A.D. 1840 & that the above signature purporting to be his is his genuine official signature - Given under my hand & the Seal of said County Court in Fairfield this 14 th day of April 1840 Thomas Robinson Clerk.

Bethel April 19 th 1840
Dear Sir
I received your letter the 12 th instant requesting me to procure an affidavit of the success of the Rev Mr Brooks. You will see by the affidavit of Mr Brundage that there is no record of Mr Brooks to be found, there is no papers of his to be found in the town. If the affidavit of Mr Brundage is not correct you will please write to me again and I will attend to it immediately. You will please direct your letters to Bethel, Fairfield Co. Ct. as your letter lay in the Office at Danbury until it was delivered.
I am Yours Very truly John Benedict

Comptroller's Office
Hartford Jan'y 25 1840.
I certify that on application for evidence of the services of William Benedict I have examined the Books of papers remaining in this Office relating to the Revolutionary War and find on a Pay Roll of Capt. Noble Benedict Company in the Regiment of Forces of the United Colonies under the command of Col. David Matherburg raised in the Colony of Connecticut commencing on the day in which they enlisted on oath in said service and ending with the time of their discharge including time for to get home 6th Co 5th Regt from May to Dec 1775. William Benedict entered service May 12 Time of discharge July 17 having served 67 days / Sixty Seven days /
Henry Webb Compt.

Certificate of Compt. of State of St. Vincent of Widow Benedict.

State of New York } County of Genesee } ss:
On this 29 th day of April 1844 personally appeared before me the subscriber a justice of the peace of said county of Genesee, Ruth Benedict a resident of the town of Alexander in the county of Genesee aged Ninety one years, who being first duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress passed on the 3 rd day of March 1843 granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary war - That she is the widow of William Benedict who was a Private in the army of the Revolution - and the annual amount of the pension which she is entitled to receive (not yet received) under the act of July 7 th 1838 is thirty dollars and seventy seven cents - -
She further declares that she is still a widow
her Ruth X Benedict mark
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written before me - and certify that I personally know the said Ruth Benedict and further that she made her mark to the above declaration she not being able to write her name
James R. Fenkernan } justice of the peace }

State of New York } ss. Genesee County }
I hereby certify that Fanny B. Packman is a Justice of the Peace and that the foregoing signature purporting to be hers is genuine. In Testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my seal of office and subscribed my name this 30 th
day of April in the Year 1824.
Ab G. Johnson Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas for said County.
5804

   Date of Service Captain under Whom Colonel under Whom Time of Service     William Benedict 1775 Hickroy 2 mo d   1776 Noble Benedict Col Chandler 2 "   " Purdy 2 "   1777 Hickroy 6 " Record 20. p. 128   1778 Ezra Starr   1779 Smith X 2 "   1780 D. Olmsted 3 " X   1781 do 9 "  
1 st
Statement of Comptroller of Connecticut
1 st
"I find no pay roll of either of said Companies"
2 nd
"There were several Capt s Smith in the service"
3 rd
"In 1779 there is filed among the Pay Table papers a "Pay Roll" for Horse travel. Capt. David Hickroy Company 16 th Regt. Commanded by Jeremiah Beardsley Esq. Col. on an expedition to Fairfield. Danbury 9 th July 1779; on this Pay Roll, or abstract, there is the following entry - William Benedict 1 Horse 50 miles travel $ 7. 10. 11 *
4 th
"Capt David Olmsted of Babies Regt. rendered his account June 20, 1781 for $ 1839 11. 10."
5 th
"The service under Capt. Noble Benedict I am told has been certified"
* $25.00. Would this sum have been paid for Horse travel alone - merely to have gone there & back. Is it not evidence that not only the horse, but that W m Benedict himself was there, and refers to his service in 1777. 6 mo d  the service

It appears by the best evidence which can be procured by Benedict own oath, and corroborative testimony from the Comptroller of Connecticut, that W m Benedict did serve under the several Captains alledged by him except Capt. Starr - viz
   Under Capt. Hickoy. N. Beardsley Col 1775. 2. mo. ds   " " N. Benedict Chandler " 1776. 2. " 7. admitted   " " Hickoy N. Beardsley " 1777. 6 "   " " Smith " 1779 2 "   " " D Olmsted Babies Regt 1780 3 "   " " " " 1781. 9. "   24 = 7  
In 1777, was the time the British made the Gap descent upon the stores at Danbury which Ben- dict drove, he was paid and the Comptroller has furnished evidence that he was paid for horse here and also states that Capt. Benedict was paid for the services of his Company in Great Neck & hence other Officers to be no pay roll on file showing Benedict's service.

A Bondage Widow Ruth Benedict Certificate

I, Almer Pondridge of the town of Bridgeport in Fairfield County and State of Connecticut, being about fifty years of age, and having been eight years a resident of this place, do hereby certify that, no public record of Mar- riages, has been kept or now exists, in this town, of an earlier period than eighteen hun- dred and twelve, and for that time the de- posit is not kept. Almer Pondridge
State of Connecticut Fairfield County Probate District of Danbury
I, Gilead G. Taylor Clerk of the Court of Probate for the District of Danbury within and for said County and State do hereby certify that the above-named Deponent appeared before this Court, on the 3 d day of December 1838 in open Court and made solemn oath to the truth of the above deposition by him subscribed, and that the said deponent is well known to this Court as a man of good character and a credible witness.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Court this 3 d day of December 1838 Gilead G. Taylor Clerk
I, Edward Taylor of Danbury in the County of Fairfield and State of Connecticut Judge of Probate within and for the District of Danbury in said County and State, do hereby certify to all whom it may concern that Gilead G. Taylor who hath signed the foregoing certificate is Clerk of the said Court of Probate, and was Clerk at the date thereof, duly appointed and sworn. That the signature subscribed to said certificate and purporting to be his is in the proper handwriting of the said Gilead G. Taylor , and that full faith and credit are due to his official acts as such Clerk, and that the seal impressed upon said certificate is the seal of said Court of Probate. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand at Danbury aforesaid this 3 d day of December 1838 Edward Taylor Judge

Memorandum for Albert Smith

Widow Ruth Benedict of William Benedict Alexander.
Her husband made a declaration and obtained a Pension under of Act of 1882. Mr. Benajah Benedict of Alexander, wishes to obtain a copy, if possible, of his declaration under that Act. Perhaps the Department will be unwilling to give a copy, but will permit you to examine it and take a memorandum of its contents as declared. — particularly the terms of service and names of officers. —
If Mr. Smith will obtain the above and write to Mr. Benajah Benedict Alexander, he will much oblige —
His friend H. D. Soper.
P.S. He will please enquire whether any thing has been done on the application of the widow within a few months. —

Washington Jan'y. 8. 1845
Sir, I enclose you an afft of the service of the late William Benedict, during the year 1776. on the application of Mrs. Ruth Benedict for an increase of her Pension - She is at present only allowed for two months and seven days for  that  year - The afft. appears to be full and duly authenticated. and I hope with the other papers will satisfy you that Mrs. Benedict is entitled to an increase of her Pension -
I have the honor to be my respectfully Your obedt Servt Albert Smith
Hon. J. L. Edwards Commr. of Pensions

Thomson Blodgett Alexander N. York
Hon J. L. Edwards Comm. of Pensions
Present
$30:77 per ann
Quit Pension at 1838

Washington Apr. 16. 1844
Hon J. L. Edwards
Your letter to me of the 15 th inst. admits of 9 months 7 days service in the Revolution of W m Benedict, for whose services Mrs Ruth Benedict claims pay as the widow of said William Benedict. The amt due for said services are hereby accepted, reserving the right to make further proof in the premises.
Respectfully You
Obt. Servt.
Heman Blodgett

35 Nemah Poedgett Esq. Alexander Genesee Co. N.Y.
1113 Penn

Albany Feb'y 29/55
Weman Rodgett Esq. Sir
If I can at any time be of service to Mrs. Benedict in obtaining her pension it will give me pleasure.
The enclosed certificate of the Comptroller of Comptroller shows all the services which appear upon the books in his office except a tour of service under Col. Noble Benedict allowed by the Comptroller Commission of Pensions. It shows also that Capt. David O'Neil was paid for services, although there are no Pay rolls of his company on file.
Such being the case a pension ought to be allowed without subjecting the widow to further trouble or delay.
I am very Respectfully Your Obedient Servant
Wm. B. Turner

Mr. A. J.
Hon. J. L. E. Thomas
R. Benedict
Commissaire of Customs
P
London

Washington April 15. 1844
Hon. J. L. Edwards Commr. of Pensions,
Sir, The bearer hereof Herman Blagett Esq. has some business at your office - Mr. B. is a constituent of mine, and you will much oblige both him and me by allowing him an early hearing, as he remains but a few days in the city - I have the honor to be Your Obedt Servt
Albert Smith

Batavia March 19, 1841 Genesee County, New York
Dear Sir,
In pursuance of your letter of the 13 th May last I now enclose to you a further certificate from the Compt. t of the State of Ct. in the case of the application of Widow Ruth Benedict, which I think you will find full enough to entitle her case to a favorable consideration.
I am Yours
with much esteem
H. D. Soper
J. L. Edwards Esq. Chair of Review

5545
Hon. J. J. Schuch Chair of Revenue Hon. A. M. Bates Washington H. R.

Batavia May 7. 1840. Genesee County, N. Y.
Sir
I now send you enclosed farther proof in the case of Widow Ruth Benedict, in answer to your communication of the 17 th September last, which I trust will be found satisfactory and render the claim at once prompt.
The old lady will hardly survive to enjoy the fruits of her pension unless she receive it soon.
I am Yours
Very truly Thos. Soper
Hon. L. Edward, Comr. of Pensions.

May 16. 1840 W.
Note - additions were made to the letter of the 13 th . sent to the Hon S. M. Gates, and sent to him on the 16 May 1840

Wash. n May 14/40
Sir
Upon your suggestion I left in your office this morning, your letter to me dated as I think the 12 th inst, stating what further Certificates were necessary from the Compt r of Conn, in the case of Ruth Benedict, for the purpose of having the names of the officers under whom her husband served sent to me, with that letter - This evening I am in receipt of your letter giving the names of the officers, but you have retained the previous letter, so that I am yet unabl. to send to the Agent - Will you please return me the letter left with you this morning
I am Sir, very Respectfully
Your Mo. Abt Servt
S. M. Gatus
Hon J. L. Edwards Compt r se

L. D.
Mr Benajah Benedict Alexandria Gunn Co. N. York

Eliza Taylor of Danbury in the County of Fairfield in the State of Conn- -necticut, aged eighty seven years, being duly sworn, doth depose, & say, that I well knew and was acquainted with William Benedict as the before, and during the Revolu- -tionary War - I knew him from a boy, and he was of the same age with myself, there being but a four days difference between the dates of our birth -
The said William Benedict was a soldier in the Revolutionary War, and I had knowledge of his service as follows -
We lived in the same neighborhood in Dan- bury in the Spring of 1776, and together & on the same day, enlisted in a company of Connecticut State Troops, as Private Soldiers, commanded by Captain Gaylord Hubbell in the Regiment of Colonel S. H. Lilliman - Peter Penfield was Lieutenant and Benjamin Hildreth Ensign of said Company - As We enlisted as aforesaid in the latter part of the month of April, or early in May 1776 for the term of eight months - We both served the full term of eight months in said Company, & were discharged on

The last of December & the 10 th of January following - We were mustered out during the Campaign, and served in New York & on Long Island, and were in the battle of White Plains - and were discharged at or near Hillskill the last of December 1776, on the 10 th of January 1777, as above stated - Soon afterwards, about the year 1781, the said William Barendt married Ruth Becker who, if living, is now his widow, and soon after the war, they removed out of this state - Eliud Gaylord
State of Connecticut
Probate District of Danbury S.S.
on this 26 th day of November 1844 before the Court of Probate within and for said District in said State, at Danbury in said District the said Court being a Court of Record, personally appeared Simon Taylor well known to the Court here, as a person of good character for truth & subscribed the foregoing deposition and being duly sworn, made solemn oath that the said deposition contains the truth, the whole truth & nothing but the truth.
In testimony whereof have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court the day and year last above written -
Frederick S. Blackman Clerk

Bethel November 25 th 1844
Dear Cousin
I was very sorry that you could not have come to Danbury when you got so near as Winchester but as Providence ordered it another way we must submit I have seen Uncle Benjamin and Aunt Mary since I received your letter and they are smart for old people our friends in this part of the country are all well -
You will see that I have been enabled to get our Deposition I can not find any other as yet If I can find any more I will send them on to you as quick as I can -
If our lives should be spared I hope we shall be permitted to see each other again - You will please give my love to all our friends in your part of the country Yours with esteem
John Benedict

24 Pidgeon Hill May 21 1851 January 20 1920
to
Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.
Will you kindly give me what information you can relative to the military standing of
William Benedict Born 1758 Resided at New Marlboro - Mass - removed to Alexandria in 1818 and died there Sept 1836 a Revolutionary Pensioner Mrs. Julia Benedict Porter 1010 Mitchell St. Petoskey - Mich

KORAN C. SMALL, PRESIDENT 15 BEACON STREET BOSTON, MASS.
MRS. L. A. W. UNDERHILL, SECRETARY 15 BEACON STREET BROOKLINE, MASS.
80 Humphrey Street Somersworth, Mass.
THE SMALLS OF AMERICA AN ASSOCIATION OF KINSHIP
ALFRED WILLIS SMALL, TREASURER 28 SCHOOL STREET BOSTON, MASS.
MISS BEULAH SMALL, HISTORIAN AUBURN, MAINE
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS
July 24-1914-
Department of the Interior - Bureau of Pensions
Gentlemen -
I desire the records of the pension of William Benedict, said to have been a Revolutionary soldier. He was born in 1758, married Ruth Peck before 1775, lived at New Marlboro, Massachusetts, in 1818 removed to Alexandria (probably Virginia), and died February 4, 1836. His widow Ruth died October 1, 1846. Their children were: Noah, Thomas, Israel, Betsy (married John Gibson) Benajah, and Rebecca (married Sherman King).
Thanking you in advance for the copy of his pension, which I would be pleased to receive at your earliest convenience,
Very truly yours
(Mrs.) Lora A. W. Underhill