Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 20,762, Oliver Bryan, Conn.

SERV C
Conn.
Bryan, Oliver Esther
NUMBER
W. 20,762
CONTENTS

Esther Bryan widow of Oliver Bryan Connecticut
who died on the 10 Dec r 1832 of Middlesex in the State of Connecticut who was a priv. Serjt in the Company commanded by Captain [blank] of the Reg t commanded by [blank] in the Connecticut line for two years.
Inscribed on the Roll of Connecticut at the rate of 93 Dollars 33 Cents per annum, to commence on the 16th day of March 1831 Dec r 1832.
Certificate of Pension issued the 7th day of March 1837 and Sir W m H Ellis, Esq. 1837.
Arrears to the 4th of Sep r 1836. 253. 81 Semi-ann. allowance ending 1 st Mar. 37 46. 66
$ 300. 47
{ Revolutionary Claim, Act July 4, 1836, Section the }
Recorded by H. H. Wyllie Clerk, Book [blank] Vol. [blank] Page 75

Connecticut 1232
Oliver Bryan's Widow
of Milford in the State of Connecticut who was a Private L te in the Company commanded by Captain Peck of the Reg t commanded by _____ in the State Troops time for
Private of Infantry - 14. months " " Cavalry " " Serg t of Infantry 6 "
Inscribed on the Roll of Connecticut at the rate of 93. Dollars 33. Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 12. day of April 1833. and sent to D. S. Baldwin, Milford, Ct. to the 15 Dec r 1832
Arrears to the date of
to the date of
166. 18.
Certificate issued after the 15. Dec r 1832 in favor of his Widow Esther Bryan -
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by Francis T. Hancin Clerk, Book P Vol. 3 d Page 3

Declaration
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress, passed June 7, 1832.
State of Connecticut, } ss. County of New-Haven, }
On this 8 th day of August personally appeared, in open Court, before the Probate Court of Milford District now sitting, Oliver Bryan a resident of said Milford in the County of New-Haven, and State of Connecticut, aged 76 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, 1832:—That he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers, and served as herein stated:—viz— in the spring of 1775 he enlisted for six months in a company of State troops commanded by Captain Samuel Peck of Milford and served said six months in said company, which was employed in about the city of New York—thence at the capture of St Johns & thence near Montreal. When said six months expired the declarant was near Saratoga, and he enlisted for another term in a company of State troops commanded by Capt J. Parmachofft of New Haven and he served seven months in said company being employed near Montreal: said company belonged to Genl Wood's command: while the declarant belonged to Capt. Parmachofft's company he was a Sergeant in said company during said seven months.
In the spring of 1776 he enlisted as Sergeant in a company of State troops commanded by Capt Samuel Peck for six months & served six months as Sergeant in said company which was employed at New York & when New York was taken said company went to Harlem & thence to White Plains. When at the battle of White Plains said company belonged to Col. Douglass' Regiment & the declarant's warrant is prefixed marked A.
In 1777 in Capt. Joseph Woodruff's company of horse he served six weeks at Peck's Hill & vicinity & continued in service until after the capture of Genl Burgoyne.
In 1779 he was drafted into service for 3 months

in the company of home command of the Colt Enoch Woodruff: ward near Hornick!
In the summer of 1781 he was drafted in Israel six weeks in Colt Enoch Woodruff's company of home, said company was employed for six weeks in about New Haven.
He was born in Milford June 3, 1756 - and has lived in Milford ever since to the present time, & his age is recorded in the family bible.
His service in 1775 & his second tour in 1776 can be proved by Samuel B. Smith.
His service in 1776 can be proved by Elisha Clark & Elijah Bryan: Benj m Gillett -
We know no one living who served with him in his tours of 1777 - 1779 & 1781: except Isaac Bryan: John Bryan
He is acquainted with the Rev d B. Pen- nycuick and Col. H. Pond who he believes can testify to his veracity, & their belief in his service in the war of the Revolution as aforementioned.
Sworn to & subscribed the day and year aforementioned.

He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to any pension or annuity except the present, and declares that his name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any State, except that of the State of
Sworn to and subscribed, the day and year aforesaid.
Oliver Bryan
Attest David L. Baldwin Clerk
We, Bezaleel Pinneo a Clergyman, residing in Milford and Chas. H. Pond residing in Milford hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Oliver Bryan who has subscribed and sworn to the above Declaration; that we believe him to be 76 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.
Bezaleel Pinneo
Chas. H. Pond
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 Bezaleel B. Pinneo who has signed the preceding certificate, is a clergyman, resident in said Milford and that Chas. H. Pond Esq. who has also signed the same, is a resident in Milford - and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
I, David L. Baldwin Clerk of the Probate Court of Milford District do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of Oliver Bryan for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, this 8 th day of August. 1832
Attest David L. Baldwin Clerk
State of Connecticut Probate District of Milford Aug. 8 th 1832
William Strong Judge of the

Probate Court for said District do certify that David L. Waldein whose signature is to the foregoing certificate is Clerk of said Court and has the keeping of the records of said Court, that full faith and credit are due to his official acts, that the foregoing is the seal of said Court and that the foregoing attestations are in due form —
Oliver Bryan the declarant, and the deponents, Samuel B. Smith, Elijah Bryan, Benjamin Gillis, Eliza Clark, Capt. Ishial Bryan, and John Bryan are severally known to me to be men of truth and their statements are entitled to full faith and credit —
According to the directions of the War Department, the Court hereby announces opinion that the statements of the applicant are true and fully proved —
William Strong Judge of Probate
No 3468 Oliver Bryan claim - Military Service

United States of America
State of Connecticut ss Milford December 12 th A.D. 1836
On this 12 th day of December A.D. 1836 personally appeared before Charles St. Ponds one of the Associate Justices of the County Court in and for the County of New Haven State of Connecticut, Mrs Esther Bryan a resident of the town of Milford in said County and State of twenty nine years of age, 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 4 th A.D. 1836. That she is the widow of Oliver Bryan formerly of said Milford now deceased who was enlisted a soldier in the Army of the Revolution and obtained a Sergeants warrant therein. That he first went to New York and afterwards to the Northward, that he returned to Milford from the service in June the summer of 1777; was married, and again went back into the service. He obtained a pension for his services under the act of Congress passed in 1832- when the evidence in support of his claim, was forwarded to the Department, and now remains.
She further declares that her maiden name was Bryan and that she was married to the said Oliver Bryan on the 21 st day of June in the year of our Lord 1777- and that her husband the aforesaid

Oliver Bryan deceased on the 15 th day of December A.D. 1832 - and that she has remained a widow ever since, as will more fully appear by reference to the proof annexed - Esther X Bryan mark In presence of Anthony Stowe and - Sarah Stowe Known & subscribed the day & year above mentioned before me - Chas. H. Pond - Asso. Judge of New Haven County Court
I do hereby certify that the above named Esther Bryant is unable to be present & attend in open court from bodily infirmity - and is the reason why the above Declaration was made before me
I also certify that said Esther Bryan is entirely blind and wholly unable to write her name. Connecticut, New Haven County, Milford Dec r 12 th 1836 Chas. H. Pond Associate Judge of the County Court

State of Connecticut } County of Middlesex } ss
I Robinson S. Newman Clerk of the County Court for said County, hereby certify that Charles H. Pond Esq. who has signed the within Certificate was, at the time of signing the same and now is one of the Judges of the said County Court duly appointed and sworn and that said signature, are his genuine Official signatures. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & the seal of said Court this 27 Day of December 1885
R. S. Newman Clerk

June 17, 1938
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Mrs. Ivan T. Johnson 2 Cobb Avenue White Plains, New York
Oliver Bryan, W.20762 BA-J/MCS Clu
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your request for the maiden name of widow of Revolutionary War soldier, Oliver Bryan, who received a pension while residing in New Haven County, Connecticut.
The papers on file in pension claim, W.20762, based on the military service of Oliver Bryan of Milford, New Haven County, Connecticut, show that Esther Bryan married Oliver Bryan on June 21, 1777, and that her maiden name was Bryan and the marriage took place at the home of Captain Jehial Bryan in Milford.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Executive Assistant to the Administrator

1938. June 17 Mrs. Evan T. Johnson, furn. market name of wid: Wid
Rev
WIDOW, &c.
File No. 20762
Esther Bryan
wid of
Oliver Bryan
Sergt. Prov. War
Act: July 1 st 1866
Index:—Vol. 1 , Page 90
[Arrangement of 1870.]

By William Douglass Esq. r Col. o of the  a  new Regiment of Foot raised for the Defence of the United Colonies of North America.
To Oliver Bryan _____ Greeting.
By virtue of the Power and Authority to me given, in and by the Delegates from the said Colonies, in Congress assembled, I do by these Presents Reposing special trust and confidence in your Loyalty, courage and good conduct, constitute and appoint you the said Oliver Bryan to be the first Serjeant in the third company, in said Regiment. you are therefore carefully and Diligently to discharge the duty of a Serjeant in ordering and exercising said company in the Service aforesaid.  Commanding them to obey you as Serjeant, and your self to observe such orders and instructions as you from time to time receive from me or other Superior Officers, according to military Rules and discipline; Pursuant to the trust Reposed in you, for which this shall be your Sufficient Warrant. Given under my hand and Seal this Twenty third day of June in the year of our lord one thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy Six.
W m Douglass

State of Connecticut, County of New Haven Probate District of Milford At a Court of Probate held in and for said Probate District on the 18 th day of February 1833.
Present William Strong Judge personally appeared in open Court Esther Bryan of said Milford aged 75 years, who being duly sworn deposes and says in this declaration, which is supplemental to the declaration made by Oliver Bryan, her late husband, on the 8 th day of August last - which said original declaration is prefixed, that she is the Widow of said Oliver Bryan, - who, ac- cording to his original declaration and the sworn statements of the several deponents - whose depositions accompany these papers, served in the Revolution for the space of two years & one month. And said Oliver Bryan for said service being entitled to a pension from the 4 th day of March 1831 to the time of his death which took place on the 15 th day of December 1832, agreeably to the Act of Congress of June 7, 1832 - your petitioner therefore humbly prays and claims that a certificate may be granted by the War Department in the name of Oliver Bryan for a pension from said 4 th of March 1831 to the 15 th day of De- cember 1832 for the services rendered by said Oliver Bryan in the Revolution and which were as follows - viz - 1 - In the summer of 1775 for 6 months in Capt Samuel Park's Company: as per deposition of Samuel B Smith - the only living witness. 2 - In the winter of 1775 - 76 for 7 months in

in Capt Parmachus Company - as per the deposition of Sam e B Smith - I think Bryan and Elijah Bryan: there being no one living who served with Oliver Bryan. 3- In the summer of 1796 for 6 months in Capt Sam Peck's Company - as per deposition of Elijah Bryan & Neha Clarke. 4- In 1797 for 6 weeks in Capt Smith Woodruff's Company - as per deposition of Oliver Bryan. 5- In 1799 for 3 months in Capt E. Woodruff's Company - as per deposition of Thomas Stephens - which was obtained after the papers of Oliver Bryan were returned and before his death - Mr Stephens lives in a remote part of the State & it was not known that he was living when the original papers were made out. 6- In 1781 for 6 weeks in Capt E. Woodruff's Company - as per deposition of Oliver Bryan & John Bryan.
The details of the foregoing terms of service are particularly stated in Oliver Bryan's declaration which is prefixed.
The warrant which Oliver Bryan had while in Capt Parmachus Company has been lost by time & accident.
The age of John Bryan is 79 this month. Answer to 4 th interrogatory - It is presumed that Oliver Bryan was called into service in the manner stated in his declaration. Answer to 5 th - The death of said Bryan has prevented any other answer than that given in his declaration.
Answer to 6 th - It is not known that Oliver Bryan ever received any written discharge - but it is confidently believed that he faithfully served as he has stated.

Answer to Y rs Pet n In addition to the persons named in Oliver Bryan's original declaration, John Mullet and John Stow of said Milford can testify to his character for truth and morality and their belief of his services as a Soldier and Officer of the Revolution - whose depositions are prefixed.
Additional depositions have been obtained from Sam l B Smith - Benjamin Gillet, Daniel Bryan and Elijah Bryan - also the deposition of Thomas Stephens - which it is hoped and believed answer the objections made to the application of Oliver Bryan: said depositions are prefixed.
Esther Bryan
I David L Baldwin Clerk of the Probate Court of Milford District do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of Esther Bryan widow of Oliver Bryan late of said Milford deceased, for a pension.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this 19 th day of February 1833.
David L. Baldwin Clerk
State of Connecticut, Probate District of Milford February 19, 1833.
I William Strong Judge of the

Probate Court for said District do certify that David L Baldwin whom signature is to the foregoing certificate is clerk of said Court and has the keeping of the records of said Court, that full faith and credit are due to his official acts, that the foregoing is the seal of said Court, and that the foregoing attestations are in due form.
Oliver Bryan the declarant, now deceased, was well known to me to be a man of strict veracity, and his statements are entitled to full faith and credit; at the time his declaration was made his health was poor and decaying - but his declaration is entitled to implicit confidence. All the deponents (except Chas Stephens who lives in a distant part of the State & is a stranger to me) are well known to me to be men of truth and their several statements are entitled to full faith and credit.
Agreeably to the directions of the War Department, the Court hereby announces opinion that Oliver Bryan was a soldier of the Revolution; that the foregoing statements are true; and the same fully proved.
William Strong Judge of Probate
3468

State of Connecticut Probate District of Milford. Friend William Strong Judge Before the Probate Court for said District held on the 18 th day of February 1833
Personally appeared in open Court Ethel Bryan of said Milford and produced proof to the satisfaction of said Court, that she is the widow of Oliver Bryan late of Milford deceased that said Oliver Bryan died on the 15 th day of December 1832 that previous to that time, said Oliver Bryan had made application to the War Department for a pension under the act of Congress approved June 7 th 1832 —
Whereupon it is considered and found by said Court that said Ethel Bryan is the widow of said Oliver Bryan, who died on the 15 th day of December 1832 and that said Oliver Bryan was an applicant for a pension under the act of Congress of the 7 th June 1832
In testimony whereof the Court has caused the Seal of said Court to be affixed thereto and the same to be certified by the Clerk of said Court on the 18 th day of February 1833
David L. Baldwin Clerk
I hereby certify that the above attestation are in due form
William Strong Judge of Probate

State of Connecticut County of New Haven Probate District of Milford ss
At a Court of Probate held at Milford within and for said District on the 19 th day of February 1833 -
Present William Strong Judge
Personally appeared in open Court John Mallet aged 74 years and John Stone aged 72 years both of said Milford, who being duly sworn do depose and say, that they have al- -ways been acquainted with Olin Bryan late of Milford deceased, that his character for truth and morality was always good, and that they have always lived neighbors to said Bryan - that it has always been reported and believed in the neighborhood, when in said and now doubted, that the said Olin Bryan was a Soldier of the Revolution - and further dep- -osants say not -
John Mallet John Stone
Attest David D Baldwin clerk

State of Connecticut, County of New Haven Probate District of Milford At a Court of Probate held at said Milford in and for said District on the 19 th day of February 1833 Parent William Strong Indap- personally appeared in open Court John Bryan aged 78. and Elijah Bryan aged 73 years both of said Milford and being du- ly sworn several depose and say in ad- dition and explanation of their former depositions of the 8 th of August last which are prefixed to the original declaration of Elias Bryan - which accompany their papers - that the deponents & each of them have always been well acquainted with and good neighbors to Elias Bryan late of Milford deceased and that said Elias Bryan's character for veracity was always good - that it was always reported and believed in the neighborhood and never contradicted that said Elias Bryan performed sev- eral tours of service in the Revolution that deponents believe that the state- ments made by said Elias Bryan in his declaration which they have heard read, are strictly true. & that they have been so situated in life as to be well acquainted with the facts made in said statements alluded to - the said Elijah Bryan is brother to John Bryan whose deposition of the 8 th of August last is prefixed to the declaration of Elias Bryan and said Elijah Bryan says that said John Bryan will be 79 years of age the present month - and that said John

Bryan is prevented from attending court by reason of sickness in his fam- ily.
Abiel Bryan Elijah Bryan
Attn David C. Baldwin Clerk

State of Connecticut County of New Haven Probate District of Milford ss—
At a Court of Probate held at Milford within and for said Probate District on the 6 th day of December 1832—
Present William Strong Judge
Personally appeared in open Court Thomas Stephens now of Litchfield in Litchfield County in said State but formerly of Milford aforesaid who being duly sworn deposes and says, that his age is Ninety years, that in the month of the month of September 1779 he was drafted into a Company of Horse commanded by Capt. Ezekiel Borchaff of said Milford for Three Months, and, that he served said Three Months in said Company at Horse neck and in its vicinity — said Company was attached to Col Mead's Regiment, or Col. Mead commanded there at that time, and said Company was subject to his orders — said Company was employed as a guard or scouting party, during said term of Three Months and then was discharged but without a written discharge — and deponent further deposes and says, that Oliver Bryan of Milford aforesaid, was drafted into said Company and served there with him during said term of Three Months as above stated, against the common enemy, in the War of the Revolution and further deponent saith not —
Attest David L. Baldwin Clerk Thomas Stephens

State of Connecticut County of New Ha- ven Probate District of Milford At a Court of Probate held at said Milford in and for said Probate District on the 19 th day of February A D 1883 Present William Strong Judge personally appeared in open court Benjamin Gillet of said Milford aged 74 years and being duly sworn de- poses and says in explanation of his deposition of the 8 th day of August last, which is prefixed to the original declaration of Oliver Bryan which accompany these papers - that he the de- ponent has always been acquainted with and lived neighbor to Oliver Bryan late of Milford deceased - that said Bryan's character for veracity was always good - that deponent well remembers that said Oliver Bryan was absent from home during all the winter of 1875 & 76. That said Bryan returned home in the spring of 1876 from the Northward - and that it was reported and believed that said Bryan and the report was never con- tradicted in the neighborhood that said Bryan was engaged during said winter as a Sergeant in a Company acting against the common enemy at the Northward - near Ft. Fisher & Newbern as he understood at the time - deponent says he has often heard said Oliver Bryan speak of his services against the common enemy in the winter of 1875 & 76 - The belief that his statements were true. Benjamin Gillet Attest David L. Baldwin Clerk

State of Connecticut, County of New Haven Probate District of Milford
At a court of Probate held at said Milford in said District on the 18 th day of February 1833
Present William Strong Judge personally appeared in open court Samuel B Smith of said Milford aged 77 years & being duly sworn deposes and says in explana- tion of his deposition of the 8 th day of Au- gust last which is prefixed to the original declaration of Elias Bryan which ac- company said three papers - that after depo- nent had finished his tour under Capt Samuel Dicks he returned home to Milford but that Elias Bryan late of Milford and now deceased entered as sergeant at St Johns (Canada) in a company com- manded by Capt Parmachue of New Haven and as a general duty understood said Eli- as Bryan served in said Parmachue's com- pany near St Johns and Montreal for the term of seven months - the deponent saw said Bryan the spring following after he returned to Milford - he was then informed by E. Bryan that he had served as a sergeant, and it was always reported & believed, in contradiction in the neighborhood that said Bryan performed said service - & deponent further says that he knows of no person living who served with said Bryan in said Par- machue's company, & has no doubt said Bryan remains as aforesaid: said Bryan entered on said tour the 10 th part of October 1795.
Attest David L. Baldwin Clerk Samuel B Smith

State of Connecticut County of New Haven Probate District of Milford ss—
At a Court of Probate held at Milford within and for said Probate District of Milford on the 8 th day of August 1832
Frank William Strong Judge
Personally appeared in open Court Jehiel Bryan of said Town County & State, and John Bryan of the Town of Orange in said County and State and being duly sworn, respectively, upon and say that, in the year 1789 they were well acquainted with Olin Bryan then and now of said Milford — that deponents were in 1789 and have continued ever since, to live near said Olin Bryan — that deponents well remember that in said year 1789 he went to New Haven on a tour of duty in Capt. Woodruff's Company of Horse — but do not recollect how long he was in said tour of duty — and further deponents say not —
Jehiel Bryan John Bryan
Sworn to and subscribed in open Court as above without the day and year aforesaid
Attest David L. Walcutt clk

In what time was Oliver Bryan of New Haven Colonel paid under the act of June 7 1832
Since 13 Dec. 1832 p. 1 Westport Conn
A. H. L. March 6 1837
Thanked Office

I Susan Gillet of the Town of Milford State of Connecticut of lawful age do depose and say, that when a Girl, I was present at the House of Capt. Jehial Bryan of said Milford at the wedding of Oliver Bryan to Esther Bryan both of said Milford in the Summer of A. D. 1777 — and saw them joined in wedlock by the Rev. Samuel Wales, Pastor of the First Presbyterian Society of said Milford. I was at the time Thirteen years of age, but recollect perfectly well the marriage scene, from the circumstance of hearing they (the said Oliver & Esther) were to be married; and leaving home without liberty with a dress not suitable for the occasion in company with Sally Pruden a companion (who is since deceased) and on my return home was severely reprimanded, I then living in the neighbourhood of the said Capt. Jehial Bryan. I further know the said Esther has remained a Widow since the death of her husband Oliver Bryan further deponent saith not.
Susan Gillet
New Haven County ss Milford 22 nd December 1836 Personally appeared before me Susan Gillet of said Milford and makes Oath to the truth of the above affidavit subscribed by her who is a Woman of truth and veracity & would not knowingly swear falsely. William Durand Justice of Peace

I John Bryan of the Town of Orange State of Connecticut of lawful age do depose and say, that in the Month of June A.D. 1777, I was at the House of Capt. Jehiel Bryan in the Town of Milford State of Connecticut, and then saw the Rev Samuel Wales Pastor of the First Presbyterian Society of said Town of Milford join in Marriage Oliver Bryan to Esther Bryan both of said Milford pronouncing them Man and Wife (The said Esther now being the widow of the said Oliver). I recollect that the 119 Psalm, 11 th part was sung on said occasion, I was at the time twenty four years of age.
John Bryan
New Haven County ss. Orange 24 th December A.D. 1836 Personally appeared before me, John Bryan of said Orange and makes Oath to the truth of the above affidavit subscribed by him, who is a man of truth & integrity and is to be believed.
William Durand Justice of Peace

I Content Troat of the Town of Orange State of Connecticut of lawful age do depose and say, that some time in the Summer of A.D. 1777. I was present and saw the Rev Samuel Wales unite in marriage Oliver Bryan to Esther Bryan both of the Town of Milford State of Connecticut, at the House of Capt. Jehiel Bryan of said Milford. I was intimate and a mate of the said Esther, and recollect on that occasion (viz) the evening of the wedding, to have been accompanied by Joseph Whiting (since deceased) I was at the time Sixteen years of age farther deponent saith not.
Content Troat
New Haven County ss. Orange 24 th December A.D. 1836 Personally appeared before me Content Troat of said Orange who makes oath to the truth of the above affidavit subscribed by her, who is a woman of integrity, & would not swear falsely William Durand Jr Justice of Peace

State of Connecticut } County of New Haven } ss.
Robinson S. Newman Clerk of the County Court for said County, hereby certify that William Durand Jr Esq who has signed the within Certificate
at the time of signing the same and now is a justice of said County Court duly appointed and sworn, and that his signa- tures are his genuine official signatures. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and the seal of said Court this 27 th day of December A.D. 1880
R. H. Newman Clerk

State of Connecticut, County of New Haven Probate District of Milford ss At a Court of Probate held at Milford within & for said Probate District on this 8 th day of August 1882.
Reverend William Strong. Judge
personally appeared in open court Jehiel Bryan of Milford, and being duly sworn deposes & says that in the summer of 1779 he was a soldier in Captain Jehiel Bryan's Company & doing duty at near Pickett's Hill in the State of New York, and while there & then employed, deponent further says that he well remembers that Oliver Bryan then now of Milford was doing duty at & near Pickett's Hill in a Company of horse commanded by Capt. Enoch Woodruff of Milford & that his tour con- tinued six wishes months. And deponent further says that he well remembers that in the year 1779 Oliver Bryan then now of Milford went on a tour of duty as a soldier in Capt. Enoch Wood- ruff's Company of horse to Hornsboro in the State & that Oliver Bryan was employed on his tour about three months according to the best of his remem- ber & further deponent saith not.
Jehiel Bryan
Sworn to and Subscribed in open court as above written this day and year aforesaid Alast David L. Haldridge Clerk

State of Connecticut County of New Haven Probate District of Milford ss - At a Court of Probate held at Milford within and for said Probate District on the 8 th day of August 1832
Friend William Strong Judge
Personally appeared in open Court Elijah Bryan & Elisha Clark of said Milford and being duly sworn depose and say, that in the Spring of 1776 they entered the former  the latter as a private as a private in a Company of State Troops commanded by Capt. Samuel Pick for six months and served six months in said Company, which was employed at and near New York where New York was taken & Company went to Harlem and thence to White Plains and was at the Battle there Company belonged to Col. Dugay's Regiment - and they further depose and say that Oliver Bryan of said Milford served in said Company as Sergeant during said term of six months against the Common enemy, during the War of the Revolution - and further deposers say not -
Elijah Bryan
Elisha Clark
Sworn to and subscribed in open Court as above written the day and year aforesaid Attest David L. Baldwin Clerk

State of Connecticut County of New Haven Probate District of Milford Jy.
At a Court of Probate held at Milford within and for 1 st Probate District on the 8 th day of August 1832
Present William Strong Judge
Personally appeared in open Court Elijah Bryan and Benjamin Gillet of said Milford, and being duly sworn, respectively, depose and say that in the years 1775 & 1776 they were well acquainted with Oliver Bryan then of Milford - that deposants 1775 & 1776 well remember that it was stated & believed that he served as a Sergeant during a tour of duty to the northwards in the winter of 1775 & 1776 and they also well remember his return from said tour of duty in the spring of the year 1776 and said deposants further say that they have heard it often stated by others that he performed said tour of duty, and it was always believed in the neighborhood where he then and now resides and further the deponents say not
Elijah Bryan Benjamin Gillet
Sworn to and subscribed in open Court as above written the day and year aforesaid
Attest David L. Baldwin Clerk

State of Connecticut County of New Haven Probate District of Milford ss At a Court of Probate held at Milford in & for said Probate District on the 8 th day of August 1832
Present William Shory, Judge personally appeared in open court Samuel B Smith of Milford & being duly sworn depon- says that in the spring of 1845 he served six months in a company of State Troops commanded by Capt Samuel Peck of Milford & was employed near New York - thence at the captem of St Johns & thence near Montreal; & deponent further says that Oliver Bryan of Milford belonged to & served in said company during said six months as aforesaid: & deponent further says that at the end of said six months he returned home, & that said Oli- ver Bryan enlisted in a company of State Troops as sergeant commanded by Capt J. Parmachenee then near New Haven & that said Bryan served in said company on the Northern frontier for a term of seven months according to the best of his knowledge & recollection: & further deponent saith not.
Samuel B Smith
Sworn to and Subscribed in open Court as above written this day and year above written - aforesaid
Attest David L. Paldani clk

Hon Lewis Cass Secy of War Sir
Milford (Con) Feby 19. 1833
In August last Oliver Bryan made his application for a pension under the Act of June 7. 1832: and on the last of November his papers were returned with certain objections as per brief. Mr Bryan whose health had long been poor, continued to decline until the 15 th of December last, when he died. His Widow, Esther Bryan, a poor and worthy old lady, herewith presents her claim for the pension to which she believes her husband was entitled under said Act, from the 4 th day of March 1831 to the 15 th of December 1832.
The low state of health, and pecuniary condition of Mr and Mrs Bryan. — the death of Mr Bryan, — and the difficulties in collecting the requisite proof are among the reasons which have occasioned the delay of their papers till this time. But it is respectfully hoped that the objections have been removed & that the case is made out to the satisfaction of the War Department.
I remain very respectfully Your Servt
David L. Baldwin

Esther Bryan Cont
Allac. $93.33 per ann. comg. 16 Dec. 1892.
M. H. Ellis Esq Presents

Sir
New Haven 27 th December 1836
Accompanying are the papers of Mrs Esther Bryan asking the for a Pension under the act of Congress passed 4 th July 1836 for services rendered by her Husband during the Revolutionary War. They are her Declaration & Affidavits from several individuals respecting her marriage before test period of service & all of which is respectfully Submitted — Respectfully your Ob t Servant W m Durand
To J. L. Edwards Esq re Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D. C.

Oliver Bryan
4-6. 13. 15. 16. 17 Elizer Bryan widow of J Bryan Private of Infantry 14 Cavalry & Serg t of Infantry 6. David L. Baldwin Milford Ct from 6 Mar 31 to 15 Dec 1832 at 93. 33 per year
D S Baldwin Milford Ct p 97.

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

XI. Has the applicant obtained the evidence of a clergyman and another respectable citizen as to their belief respecting his age and the general belief in his neighborhood relative to his revolutionary service?
XII. If the clergyman's affidavit has not been produced, is there any reason assigned for not obtaining it?
XIII. If the applicant has no documentary evidence, and has not obtained the testimony of at least one living witness, has he stated in his declaration that such proof cannot be had?
The best evidence of his rank in Capt Parmalee's company, his warrant is not accounted for
XIV. †If the applicant has produced a witness or witnesses as to his service, has the magistrate who administered the oath certified that he, she, or they are persons of credibility?
Has the official character and signature of the magistrate been certified by the proper officer under his seal of office?
XV. Does it appear from any of the papers that the witness was in such a situation, or of such an age, as to have a personal knowledge of the applicant's service?
The testimony of S B Smith as to the second term is defective in these respects, as well as that of Elijah Bryan Benjamin Gillet Jehiel Bryan John Bryan
XVI. †Are the papers authenticated as the regulations direct?
No
XVII. Are the seven interrogatories prescribed by the War Department answered satisfactorily? And, if not, which of them is not so answered?
42 Subsequent
EXPLANATORY NOTES.
QUERE V. In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the loss of memory, state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words:
“Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service, but according to the best of his recollection he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades: For _____ year _____ months and _____ days, I served as a _____. For _____ months and _____ days, I served as a _____; and for such service I claim a pension.”

It is important in all cases to determine with precision the period for which the applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service. The use of the phrase about three or four months is too indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable.
QUERE XIV.  Proof of Service.
In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses, who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of the claimants entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged. The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
QUERE XVI.  Mode of authenticating papers.
In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticated the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which contains the affidavit, or other paper authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon, the end 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.

Pension Bureau Revolutionary Soldiers Washington D.C.
Gentlemen:
Will you kindly let me know if you have any information regarding the maiden name of the wife of Oliver Bryan, pensioner of the Revolutionary War in 1832, residing in New Haven Colony and mentioned on p. 654 Conn. Adj. General Office Record of Conn. near the War of Revolution Vol. II.
Very truly yours
Selma C. Johnson Great-granddaughter of Oliver Bryan