Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 17,318, James Blake, Va.

SERVICE
NUMBER
Va.
Blake, James. Sarah
N. 17,318
CONTENTS

North Carolina - 3844.
Repd. March 7. 43 -
John Blake and Mary Blake only surviving children of Sarah Blake, daughter of James Blake, deceased - who died on the 26 July, 1839 * of in the State of who was a private - in the commanded by Captain of the commanded by in the Virginia line for 15 months Va
Inscribed on the Roll of North-Carolina at the rate of 50 Dollars — Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 3 rd day of March 1843 and sent to Mrs. R. B. Saunders H. B. —
Arrears to the 4th of Semi-annual allowance ending
$415.41
{ Revolutionary Claim, Act July 4, 1836, Section the }
Recorded by Clerk, Book C Vol. 1 — Page 182 —

THE BOOK OF Common Prayer, And Administration of the SACRAMENTS, And other Rites and Ceremonies OF THE CHURCH, According to the Use of the CHURCH of England: Together with the PSALTER or PSALMS OF DAVID, Pointed as they are to be Sung or Said in CHURCHES.
EDINBURGH: Printed by ADRIAN WATKINS, His Majesty's Printer. MDCCXII.

The Contents of this Book.
 THE Preface.  Concerning the Service of the Church.  Concerning Ceremonies, &c.  The Kalendar.  The Order how the Psalter is appointed to be read.  The Order how the rest of the Holy Scripture is appointed to be read.  Tables and Rules for the Feasts and Fasts throughout the whole Year.  A table of proper Lessons and Psalms.  The Order for Morning Prayer.  The Order for Evening Prayer.  The Creed of St. Athanasius.  The Litany.  Prayers and Thanksgivings upon several Occasions.  The Collects, Epistles, and Gospels to be used at the Ministration of the holy Communion throughout the Year.  The Order of the Ministration of the holy Communion.  The Order of Baptism, both Publick and Private.  The Order of Baptism of such as are of riper Years.  The Catechism, with the Order for Confirmation of Children.  The Form of Solemnization of Matrimony.  Visitation of the Sick, and Communion of the Sick.  The Order for the Burial of the Dead.  Thanksgiving for Women after Child-bearing.  A Commination, or Denouncing of God's anger and judgments against sinners.  The Psalter.  The Order of Prayers to be used at Sea.  A Form of Prayer with Thanksgiving for the Fifth Day of November.  A Form of Prayer with Fasting for the Thirtieth Day of January.  A Form of Prayer with Thanksgiving for the Nine and twentieth Day of May.  A Form of Prayer with Thanksgiving for the Eleventh Day of June. 
BLAKE, JAMES (V.A.)
To the BINDER.
CUT off from the Twenty-fours Prayer Books printed before the Year 1752, to the Order for Morning Prayer; and, in place thereof, add this half Sheet, and six Leaves marked B, which is the New Kalendar, Tables and Rules, appointed by Act of Parliament for the Prayer Book, to take Place after 2d September 1752, agreeable to the New Style.

DIRECTIONS ABOUT THE TUNES AND MEASURES.
All Psalms of this Version in the Common Measure third Lines of the single Stanzas contain eight syllables each, the second and fourth Lines six syllables each, and may be sung to any of the following Tunes, viz. Jerusalem, New-Jerusalem, St. David's, Litchfield, Canterbury, New-Canterbury, St. Mary's, New-Hampshire, &c.
As the Old 25 Psalm, may be sung the New 25.
As the Old 112, the 37, 42, 50, 63, 76, 91, 112, 129, 130.
As the Old 148, the 136, 148.
The Psalms in this Version of four Lines in a single Stanza, and eight syllables in each line (if Psalms of Psalm or Chequerfield) may properly be sung as the Old 100 Psalm, or to the Tune of the Old 135 Psalm, Second Part.
The Penitential, or Mournful Psalms, in the same Measure, may be sung to the Old 22 Psalm, which is the same as the New 22, and may be found in the Appendix to this New Version.

(3)
Richard Blake was born September the 10 1883
(4)
Nancy Blake was born the 9 day March 1728
Jones Blake was born the 13 day 1788 March
BLAKE, JAMES (VA.)

18th Dec 1877 James Blake was married the 11 of August 1877 BLAKE, JAMES (VA)

1878 1879 1880 1881 1882 1883 1884 1885 1886 1887 1888 1889 1890 1891 1892 1893 1894 1895 1896 1897 1898 1899 1900 1901 1902 1903 1904 1905 1906 1907 1908 1909 1910 1911 1912 1913 1914 1915 1916 1917 1918 1919 1920 1921 1922 1923 1924 1925 1926 1927 1928 1929 1930 1931 1932 1933 1934 1935 1936 1937 1938 1939 1940 1941 1942 1943 1944 1945 1946 1947 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

Lydia Weston her Bookbinder M rs J. Weston and given by her to her Daughter Valley Clifton

BLAKE, JAMES (VA)

Dorothy Clifton was born in April 1978
(1) Lydia Blake was born 21 of December the year 1978
(2) Polly Blake was Born July 1978

May 1755 John ... 1755 John ... 1755 May 1760 Joseph ... born July 1762 1765

H. W. Graham South 08
57
James A Craig Esq
Haw river
N o Carolina
5500
8

Declaration.
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress of the 7 th June, 1832.
State of North Carolina } S.S. Court of Pleas & of Sessions Orange County } November Term, 1841.
On this the 26 th day of November, 1841, personally appeared before the Court of Pleas and quarter Sessions, for said County, now sitting, John Blake a resident of said County, aged 51 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 7 th 1832.
That his Deceased father James Blake enlisted in the Army of the United States, in the year of 1780, with one Captain Moore, as he has understood, and in the Regiment commanded by Col: Wells of the Virginia Continental Line. That he does not remember the name of any other Captain under whom it is said his Deceased father served, except that of Captain Moore. Major Dickson was also of the Regiment to which his father was attached.
This Declarant has also further understood that his father was under Marquis Lafayette and Genl. Washington.
That his Deceased father served only under one term of enlistment, as he understands.
That his Deceased father was living in Southampton County Virginia, when he enlisted - and enlisted at Long's old field in said County.
That he was in the engagements at Green Springs, under Lafayette, in May 1781, and in the fall following was at the Siege of Little York. Altho' this Declarant cannot procure any testimony that his father served longer than the surrender of Lord Cornwallis, in October 1781.

He is nevertheless persuaded (2) that, his father remained longer in the Service. But failing to procure the requisite evidence, he thinks it would be just  and equitable, to claim Nineteen Months Service, for his Dec d father, to wit, from the 20 th of March 1780 to the 20 th of October, 1781.
In proof of his father's Revolutionary Service, and Identity, this Declarant has caused to be procured, the evidence of Thomas Blake of Montgomery County, N.C. brother to his Dec d father.
Said affiant states that his Dec d father James Blake aforesaid, was in the United States Service in the war of the Revolution Twelve months, and upwards . I was married he thinks, in 1778, or 1779.
In further proof of his Dec d father's Revolutionary Service, he has caused to be procured, the affidavit of formerly of Southampton Co  Brittain Bowens , a Resident of said County, of Orange n who states, That his Dec d father, enlisted in the Month of February or March 1780 - and proves further that the Dec d deceased was in the Service in The Spring following, and at the Siege of Little York, in the fall following, (1781)
From which evidence it appears that his Dec d  father was in the Service as a private of Infantry upwards of Nineteen Months. and for which Service, this Declarant claims a pension.
This Declarant further sets forth upon his said oath that, from the evidence furnished he believes that the marriage of his Dec d father and mother took place either in the year of 1778, or 1779.
That his father had married before his enlistment. That in the year of 1789, his father, as he understands moved from Southampton County, Virginia to Wake County in this State, and died in a few months after settling in Wake County.
That in year of 1804 or 1805 his mother moved to the Village of Chapel Hill, in this County (Orange) and resided there till her death, which occurred on the 26 th day of July, One Thousand eight hundred and thirty

Thirly Nine - That when she died, she left but two children surviving, to wit, the Declarant and Mary Blake, both of lawful age.
That after the death of his father, his mother did not afterwards marry, but remained a widow till her death.
That his mother had a family Bible, in which were entries showing the date of his father's death, and the ages of the several children, but he does not now know what has become of said family Bible.
This Declarant hereto annexes the affidavit of Thomas Blake of Montgomery County, N.C. and which he believes to be genuine and true. Said affidavit is marked 'A'.
He also annexes the affidavit of William Bonner of the aforesaid County, which this Declarant believes to be genuine and true - Said affidavit is marked 'B'.
This Declarant also annexes the letters and official Certificate of James Heath, Auditor, Richmond, Virginia.
and which evidence, this Declarant also believes to be genuine and true.
The said John Blake further declares That, his said mother never applied for a pension, as he ever understood, and is under the impression that she never was informed apprised of the benefit of the provision of the act of Congress of the 4 th July, 1836, nor did he himself obtain any correct knowledge of said act, till since the death of his mother.
Sworn and subscribed this day and year aforesaid.
John Blake
Subscribed & sworn to before me
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion that, the above named Boldrick James Blake, was a private of Infantry in the War of the Revolution, and served

Served
(4)
as above stated.
Satisfactory proof was also furnished the Court, that said Sarah Blake, was the lawful widow of the above named Soldier, James Blake, and that said Sarah died on the 26 th day of July 1839, leaving two children her surviving, to wit: John Blake, the Declarant, and Mary Blake, both of lawful age.
It was also proved to the satisfaction of said Court, that the aforesaid Sarah did not marry after the death of her husband the aforesaid James Blake, but remained his widow 'till her death.
Satisfactory evidence was also furnished said Court, that, the Declarant, John Blake, is a man of truth & veracity.
I John Taylor Clerk of the Court of pleas & quarter sessions for Orange County, do hereby certify that, the foregoing contains the original proceedings in the matter of the application of the heirs of James Blake, Dec d for a pension -
And the said Court ordered that, the Clerk certify to the War Department, that said Declaration was this day examined and approved by the Court.
I also certify that, John John W. Hancock whose name appears upon the 9 th & 10 th pages of the foregoing Declaration, is a Justice of the peace in and for said County, & that the foregoing Signatures purporting to be his, are genuine.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed my Seal of office, on this the 26 th day of November, in the year of 1841.
John Taylor

State of North Carolina Montgomery County
On this the 18 th day of November 1861, personally appeared before the undersigned one of the acting Justices of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid, Thomas Blake, a pensioner residing in the said County Aged 98 years.
Who being first duly qualified according to law deposeth and saith as follows: To wit:
Question by Magistrate. Were you acquainted with James Blake of Southampton in Virginia?
Answer. I was: He was a brother of mine.
Q. Did your brother the aforesaid James Blake, serve any as a Soldier in the United States Service in the War of the Revolution?
Answer. Yes , as a private of Infantry, he did serve the United States in the War of the Revolution; the precise length of time, I do not remember; but would say it was twelve months and upwards .
Q. Under what officers did P. James Blake serve? Answer. Under Colonel Wills & Maj. DeLommon .
Q. In what year did your brother James Blake enlist in the United States Service?
Answer. I do not remember the year, but think it was in 1780, or thereabouts.
Q. Was your brother James Blake in the United States Service, as a private of Infantry after he was married?
Answer. He was.
Question. In what year was he married. (and to whom was he married?)

Answer. I do not remember the year, but think it was in 1778 or '79, to Sally Clifton.
2. Did you see them married? x Answer. I did.
Question. Did you not always understand that they were lawfully married. Answer. I did.
Question. How long since your brother James Blake died?
Answer. I do not correctly know, but understand it was soon after he left Virginia, for N.C. say about 50 years ago.
2. Where do you understand that Sarah Blake the widow of your brother James now lives? Answer. in Orange County, N.C.
2. Did you ever understand that the aforesaid Sarah Blake, was married after the death of her husband, the aforesaid James Blake? Answer. I never did.
And further this Deponent Saith not.
I sworn and subscribed the day and date first above written, before me,
Thomas Blake his mark
A. Graham Pearce
And I the said Justice do hereby certify that Thomas Blake, the above deponent is a man of truth & veracity.
A. Graham Pearce

State of North Carolina
I David Robertson Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions, for Montgomery County, do hereby certify that Arch Graham is a magis trate as above, and the foregoing signatures, purporting to be his, are genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my Seal of office and subscribed my name this the 18 th day of November 1841.
D. Robertson C.O.C

State of North Carolina } Orange County } ss
On this the 25 th day of November, 1841, personally appeared before the undersigned one of the Justices of the peace, in and for said County, Brittain Bowers, a resident of the aforesaid County, aged 79 years.
Who being first duly sworn according to law, deposeth and saith as follows, to wit:
That he was born and raised in Southampton County State of Virginia.
Question by Magistrate. Was you acquainted with the late James Blake, formerly of that County, & subsequently of Wake County, North Carolina?
Answer. I was: my father lived only about one mile and a half from said James Blake.
Question. Do you remember anything of said James Blake serving the United States, in the War of the Revolution, and if so, how long did he serve and under whom?
Answer. I saw said James Blake enlist in the United States Service at a General Muster, at Long's old field, in the month of July February or March, 1780. in said County of Southampton.
Question. How long did James Blake enlist for?
Answer. I do not precisely remember, the length of time, but would say that it was either for 18 months or two years - but rather think it was for two years.
Question. Where did you last see said James Blake, in the Service?
Answer. At Greensprings in the State of Virginia, and on the Ridge of Little York. and that he served as a private of Infantry.
Question. Was said James Blake married when in the United States Service?
Answer. He was.

Question. Whom did James Blake marry?
Answer. Sally Clifton.
Question. When did James Blake move to North Carolina?
Answer. Soon after the close of the Revolutionary war, James Blake, and his brother-in-law Josiah Clifton moved to Wake County, N.C. where I have ever understood said James Blake died about 50 years ago.
Question. Have you been acquainted with said widow Sarah Blake, since the death of her husband?
Answer. I have. I came to Chapel Hill in this County about the year of 1803, and soon after my settling at Chapel Hill, said Sarah Blake moved to that village - & I often saw her and was intimately acquainted with her till her death.
Question. When did she die?
Answer. in July, I think, two years ago.
Question. Did you know her to be the widow of the Idem - real James Blake, above mentioned?
Answer. Idem.
Question. Did said widow ever marry after the death of the aforesaid soldier, James Blake?
Answer. She never did. But remained the widow of the aforesaid James Blake till her death.
Question. How long did said Blake serve, to the best of your recollection, and in what in the War of the Revolution?
Answer. - I saw him enlist in the month of February or March, 1780. and the last I saw of him in the service was at the taking of Little York, in the October of the next year. and whether or said James Blake served longer than the taking of Little York, I do not now remember. and further this deponent saith not.
Sworn and subscribed the day & date just above written before me, J. W. Hance, J. P.
his William Bowers mark

(10) And I the said Justice, do hereby Certify that Brittain Downs is a man of true Veracity
J. W. Hancock , J. Peace

Auditors Office Va
2 Feb. 1841
Dear Sir,
Yours of the 25 inst is received & I regret to inform you that this office furnishes no evidence of the time when Blake entered the service , nor of the time when he was discharged , neither can it be ascertained from the revolutionary archives in our possession under what officers or in what company or regiment he served . - The muster and pay rolls of the Revo d army have long since been destroyed . They were sent to Washington as vouchers in the settlement of the states acct. ag t the Genl. & were burnt in the conflagration of the War office in 1804.
The most important record we have is a Register of the Certificates which issued for depreciation pay as it was called.
very respectfully yrs Jas E Heath

This is to Certify, That it appears from a List in this Office of such Officers and Soldiers of the Virginia Continental Line, during the Revolutionary War, as settled their Accounts, and received Certificates for the balance of their Full Pay, according to an Act of Assembly, passed the November Session, 1781, that a Certificate issued on the 10 th day of Decem r 1781 , in the name of James Blake ————— as a Soldier of Infantry for £ 10. 5. 11 , which Certificate appears to have been delivered to W m Reynolds and was given for services prior to the 1st January, 1782.
{ No Seal of Office. }
Given under my hand at the Auditor's Office, Richmond, this
16 th day of December 1820
J. E. Heath AUDITOR.

Auditor's Office Virg a
19 Dec 1840
Sir
The Post master of this city sent me your letter respecting James Blake and I send you a certificate shewing that a private of that name belonging to the Virginia Continental line settled his account and received a certificate for the balance due to him.
Very respectfully J. S. E. Heath 1 st aud r

"A" Supplemental & additional proof in the application for pension by the heirs of Sarah Blake , widow of James Blake dec d State of North Carolina ss
Montgomery County. On this the 6 th day of October 1842 personally appeared before the undersigned one of the Justices of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid Thomas Blake a resident of said County of Montgomery, aged 78 years, and an unsworn State pensioner who being duly sworn according to law, deposes & saith as follows, to wit:
That he was born and raised in the County of Southampton, in Virginia, That he had a brother by the name of James who was a soldier in the United States service, in said war of the Revolution, and died as well as this affiant can now recollect as follows:—
Some time in the fall of 1776 as well as this deponent can now recollect, his said brother joined in the Virginia Line under Colonel of the 3 d Regiment, was in the Brandy wine Battle, and in a few weeks thereafter, his term of service was out and he returned home.
In the Spring of the year when Cornwallis was in Virginia, his said brother James again joined the service as a mounted soldier drew under the same Col. M c Asp & Ferguson was in the engagement at Farmer Burkleys Old place on James River, was also at the battle of Little York, and in a week or two afterwards was discharged & returned home, having served as a mounted private part of the time in all six months he thinks.
My deceased brother also was with me in several militia 3 or 4 tours under Col. Wells in all about 6 months.
I did not serve myself in the Virginia line but my brother did. There was service that he performed in 1780 but I do not recollect the length of it.
There were six brothers of us and we were all Indepen- dent Boys some of us served longer some shorter James may have served other & no doubt did that has escaped my recollection.
Q. Was James Blake your brother in the same after he was married? Answer He was.
What Regiment was he in at the Battle of Brandywine?
Answer , the third Virginia Regiment, I think, under Col. Mercer.

Q Where did he serve under in the spring & fall of 1781? Answer He was under Col. Mover again as a mounted light horseman the early part of the Campaign under Tarapayetic! and at the latter part of the Campaign a private of Infantry and as such was at the taking of Cornwallis.
Q When was your brother James Manned? A Some time in August 1778 to Sarah Clifton. Q Where was your brother James Blake living when he died? A In Wake County in this State, did you understand Q Where was his house when he was living, when he died? A In the Village of Chapel Hill, in Orange County in this State. Q How long do you understand it has been since the death of your said Sister-in-law Sarah Blake?
A About 30 years. Q Where did you understand that your brother James Blake died? A Some after he came to Wake County. Say upwards of 50 years ago. Q Did your sister Sarah Blake marry after the death of your brother James? A I never understood that she did.
And further this deponent saith not. Given and subscribed, on this the 6 day of October, 1842, before me. A. Graham J. D. Thomas X Blake mark
I Certify that the above Thomas Blake, is known to me as a person of good standing, & entitled to full & ample Credit. A. Graham J. D.
I David R. Cochran clerk of the court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for Montgomery County, do hereby certify that A. Graham is an acting Magistrate for the County of Montgomery and that the signature purporting to be his is genuine. In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and affix the seal of said Court this day. This October 6 1842 D. R. Cochran CLK

State of North Carolina
Cumberland County
On this 31 st day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and 32 personally appeared before the undersigned, one of the acting Justices of the Peace in and for said County.
Mary B. Blake, aged 82 years widow of Ashmore Blake deceased who being first duly sworn according to her deposition and says as follows:
That she was acquainted with the late James Blake of Wake County, formerly of Southampton, in Virginia, that said James Blake married this affiant's sister Sarah Clifford - That they were married in the month of August 1776 or 1777 - that they were married by one Francis Guealy in Southampton County aforesaid - That this affiant's brother, in Law the said James Blake was a Soldier in the United States Service in the war of the revolution as a private of Infantry but how long said James Blake served in said War this affiant does not now remember.
My Brother, in Law, the said James Blake moved to Wake County in this State about Fifty years ago and I understand died soon after - and that my sister Sarah removed about 40 years ago, to the village of Chapel Hill in Orange County - where she died a short time since and that her surviving children John & Mary, I understand are endeavoring to get a Pension, for

the Preliminary Series of their Second Father Isaac Blair as aforesaid.
This affiant further states that the said Isaac Blair was in the United States Service after his marriage.
And further this affiant states not
Given and Subscribed the day and year last above mentioned before me the word did interlined before signing
W. Cook JB
Mary M. Blake
Elijah Fuller
mark
And I the said John H. Cook a Justice of the Peace as aforesaid do hereby certify that the above affiant Mary M. Blake is a person of good Character and entitled to full and ample Credit day and date as above
W. Cook JB

I John McLaurin Jr Clerk of the court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions in and for the county of Cumberland Certify that John H Cook Esq is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said county and that the foregoing signatures purporting to be his are genuine In testimony whereof, I have hereunto affixed my seal of Office and Subscribed my name this 1 st day of February in the year 1842 John McLaurin Jr Clerk of the court of Cumberland County
each copy
Fayetteville 1 Feb 1842
Miss I herewith send Mrs Blake's testimony in the case as wanted she does not remember either of the questions you wanted asked. I had hard work to get it fixed as she is old and very infirm. I shall have to charge about $2 in this case if you succeed in getting the money. I spent nearly all day yesterday in getting it fixed Ann Hutchinson is entitled to $50 for commission Respectfully Elijah Puffin

Department of War Bounty Land Office Decem r 30 th 1840
Sir,
The letter of Mr. Jas. A. Craig, received in yours of the 24 th inst t , is herewith returned, and in reply thereto, have the honor to inform you that, the name of James Blake, cannot be found on the lists of Officers , or Soldiers , of the Virginia Continental line on file in this Office, among those entitled to bounty lands from the U. States; nor are there any records in this Office, which furnish any information in relation either to his rank or services.
Very Respectfully,
Your Ob t Serv t
Wm m Gordon
Hon ble W. Montgomery, Ho. of Rep s .

Additional proof:
Heirs of,
James Blake, Decd.
abt. 6 th July. 1842
Orange County,
N.Y.
Return made To
Hon: W. H. Graham, (Senate)

When I heard that the only kind into except of such persons as the prof. furnished with such life the amount of pension as allowing. This Mr. B. requested me to state also to you.
In Craig
1500 that Blake dec. had of James. N.C. Ret July 4 1836. Hon. W.A. Graham 21. Dec. 1841 let to do. 23 rd May 1842 let to Hon. R.M. Saunders Jan. 21. 1843    26 July - 840  41.66     1.38     2.76    84.3 - 22  12.50     2.50     115.40  

Hon R. M. Saunders, W.D.

State of North Carolina Orange County: }
This day came personally before me Thomas Jones, One of the Justices of the Courts of pleas and quarter Sessions of Said County, John Boudy, a pensioner in Said County of Orange, and after being first duly Sworn according to Law, deposeth and Saith as follows, to wit: —
That when in the Northern army in 1776, he became acquainted with James Blake of the 3 rd Virginia Regiment, who served in Said Regiment, and was in the Battle of Brandywine under Colonel Marshall , he thinks. —
In 1781, this deponent was marched to the South with the Northern army under General Washington, and was at the Siege of Little York: that they arrived in the Vicinity of Yorktown, the last of September, to the best of this deponent's Remembrance; where he saw the aforesaid James Blake in the United States Service, as private of Militia. That Said Blake was in the Southern division that he was in Captain Morrow's Company, and in Weedins brigade of Militia. —
Heard Said Blake say that, he was in the previous Spring, in a tour under General Lafayette, and in the Battle at Greenspring, and was there under Lieut Colonel Mercer, that he Remembred of seeing, Said Mercer

in the Northern army, in the 3 rd Virginia Regiment, that Said Mercer was attached to the third Regiment, but had not the command of it. —
Question. How long did Said James Blake serve in the fall of 1781, to your knowledge?
Answer. I arrived at Yorktown, on the last day of September, I think it was, and saw Said Blake on the 30 th day of September, or the 1 st day of October, in the United States Service, as private of Militia, in Captain Forrester's Company; that he remained in the Service to this deponent's knowledge till the Surrender of Lord Cornwallis. his tour ended and he returned home. —
Question. How long did you understand Said Blake served in the Militia, in 1781?
Answer. Two tours, making Six Months.
And further this deponent saith not.
Sworn and Subscribed, on the 9 th day of February, in the year of 1843, before me, }
John his Boudy Mark
Thos Jones J. P.
I certify that, of my own knowledge, the deponent John Boudy is a person of good character, and entitled to full Credit and belief. — Thos Jones J. P.

State of North Carolina
I John Taylor Clerk of Orange County Court of Pleas & Quarter Sessions certify that Thomas Jones esq. the signing the foregoing Certificate was at that time a duly qualified Justice of the Peace
Witness my hand & seal of Office
17 th February 1843
J. Taylor cc

Sarah Blake's heirs
Mr. W. M. Spooner
J. J. A. Briggs
Stearns House Orange-Box No. 6

Pension Office
January 21 st 1843
Sir
The papers left by you in the case of Sarah Blake, dec d under the act of 4 th July 1836, have been examined and I have the honor to inform you that they afford satisfactory proof of 12 months Service in the Virginia Line in 1776-7, and of the Marriage in 1777; but before her claim can be allowed under the above act, a term of Service subsequent to the Marriage must be set forth as to period, length, and grade, names of Company and field Officers, Station &c, and supported by satisfactory proof. It is alleged that he was a Militia man in Service at Yorktown in 1781, under the same Col. Mercer who commanded the 3 rd Regiment of the Line in 1776, in which the years Service was rendered. This requires some explanation.
I have the honor to be Very respectfully Your Ob t . Servant J. L. Edwards
Hon. R. M. Saunders House of Representatives

Dear Sir - I herewith forward you the answer of the Genl. in the case of Blake - We will let you see proposed changes This decision in regard to furniture -
Yours affecly.
R. M. Lawrence
Dec. 5. 22/43
P. Craig

Rev WIDOW, &c.
File No. 17318
John Blake and Mary Blake Children of Sarah widow of James Blake Bapt. Rev. Wm
Act: July 4 th 1936
Index:—Vol. 1 , Page 68
[Arrangement of 1870.]

In as requested by the claimants, I transmit to you the accompanying documents, pertaining to a Persian claim.
Very Respectfully Will. H. Graham
Leiston Chamber May 20 th 1842.
J. L. Edwards Esq }

NC.
Dec 20, 1841
James L. Edwards Esq Commr of Pensions Hon W.A. Graham Senator US From Dept of Interior

in I enclose herein the declaration of John Blake praying a pension, which has been transmitted to me. Please com- municate to me your determination upon it, when formed.
Please to know to be
Very Respectfully
Your obedt. servt
Will. Graham
Senate Chamber
Decr. 18 th 1841.
J. L. Edwards Esq
P. S. Will you be kind enough, to send me one or two blanks of declarations of widows for Pensions. and also a copy of the Pension Laws in Pamphlets, as printed a few years ago by Congress, if there be any superfluous copies in your office.

Hon:
Romulus M. Saunders, H. Paper. Washington City. P. 6

Haw River, 18 th February, 1843.
Dear Sir,
Mr. John Blake of Chapel Hill, called on me this morning and handed me the enclosed additional Vespersary proof in the case of the heirs of Sarah Blake Rec d .
Mr. Blake requested me to state to you that he is unable to procure any further proof of his dec d father's Revolutionary Services.
I remain, Dear Sir,
Very resp t your
Humb. Serv t .
James A. Craig
Hon:
At. Secy of War H. Mps: Washington City

Dr J. B. Craig Head River Orange City Ia

Rev. Hope, May 10 - 1842, Orange County
Hon: W. B. Graham; Sir;
We have been able able to procure some additional evidence to our pension claim; the affidavit of Mary M Blake, and an affidavit from our uncle, Thomas Blake, some more full and explicit than his former evidence. Thomas Blake proves a years service and upwards - as a private of infantry.
I know of a Soldier of the Maryland line who knew my father was at the Siege of Yorktown, and served under Colonel Masey and La Fayette, but does not know how long he served. If it is thought necessary I can produce his evidence, tho', he is unable to prove how long my Father was in the Service.
We claimed 18 months Service, but we are willing to accept of a pension for a year Service ; or for a year and as much over a year as the commissioner of Pensions think the proof will justify. This letter together with the additional proofs will be forwarded to you, by our agent, Dr. J. A. Craig.
We remain, yours,
Humble Servants,
John Blake
for Mary Blake Mark
Wm. J. W. Craig

State of North Carolina { Montgomery County { SS
On this 7 th day of March AD 1842 Thomas Blake a Pensioner residing in the County aforesaid aged 98 years came personally before me this day, and after being first duly sworn qualified according to law deponeth and saith as follows To wit: Question by Magistrate Were you acquainted with James Blake Lord of Southampton Va who was a Soldier in the war of the Revolution?
Answer I was; he was a brother of mine.
2. How long to the best of your recollection did said James Blake serve in said war of the Revolution, and in what capacity?
A James Blake served a year and upwards in said war, as a private of Infantry .
2 Were you and James in the service together A we was.
2 Where James Blake was in the Virginia line how long did he serve and under whom?
A under Colonel Wells and Major DeCloman
2 Was Major DeCloman a militia or regular officer
A He was a regular officer  was a militia officer
2 Was James Blake in the service as a private of Infantry after he was married?
A He was.
2 When did James Blake marry, and by whom was he mar- ried?
A He married Sally Coliften Parson Gurly married them
2 Was not James Blake at the Siege of Little York?
A (I cannot recollect positively) but I believe he was
2 Was not James Blake under Washington & Lafayette at the taking of Cornwallis.
A He was.
2 Had you any other brother in the service, besides James, and if so what their names?
A I have four brothers in the service besides James Blake to wit Samuel, John, Eldred and Benjamin .

Sworn and subscribed the day and date first above written before me }
Thomas his X Blake mark
A. Graham A. Praet
And I the said Justice certify that Thomas Blake is a man of good character and entitled to full and ample credit
A. Graham A. Praet
State of North Carolina Montgomery County— I David R. Cochrane Clerk of the court of Pleas and quarter sessions for Montgomery County certify that A. Graham is a magistrate as above and that the foregoing signatures purporting to be his are genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my seal of office and subscribed my name this the 7 th day of March Anno Domini 1842
D. R. Cochrane CLK By C. W. Woolley S. CLK

Additional and Explanatory evidence in the application of the heirs of Sarah Blake, deceased for a pension.
Atch 4, July 1836.
On this the 2 nd day of December, 1835, personally appeared before the undersigned one of the acting Justices of the peace in and for Davis County, John Blake a resident of said County, aged fifty two years, one of the heirs at law of Sarah Blake d. deceased, who being first duly sworn according to law, makes on oath the following Statement, which:
1. This affiant states that some time in September last he understood from his uncle Thomas Blake, pensioner residing in Montgomery County, N.C. that he remembered of this affiant's father, James Blake enlisting in the in the United States' Service in the early part of the war of the Revolution, for Twelve months, in the Third Virginia Regiment, under Col: Mercer, for twelve months, and was in the battle of Brandywine - this affiant applied and did obtain in the month of October last the evidences of his said Uncle Thomas Blake. Said Thomas Blake, also further testified that his deceased father James Blake was again in the United States Service, in 1781 and was under Col: Mercer & Genl. Lafayette etc. and in the last tour was at the taking of Lord Cornwallis.
The affidavit of said Thomas Blake is hereto annexed and marked "A" and which affiant states he believes to be genuine and true.
2. The said John Blake, further states that he has recently succeeded in getting the evidence of John Bowdy, a pensioner, residing in said County of Orange, who was acquainted with said James Blake of South ampton County, Va. That he was in Col: Mercer's Regiment, and in the Spring of 1781, was under Genl. Wayne and at the taking of Little York.
This affiant had always understood from his d. Mother that his father James Blake aforesaid, was a Continental Soldier in the War in line, was at the Battle of Brandywine under Genl. Washington and at the taking of Lord Cornwallis under Genl. Lafayette. In the last ser- vice, the aforesaid James Blake was in the Militia or "State troops".
His father, he learns from the affiant Thomas Blake, did have also some militia tours, but does not recollect them well enough to specify them.

This affiant, the said John Blake, here states that he has recently found their Common Prayer Book, which contains their "family record" and that the entries therein made this affiant has understood from his Da r mother was, in part in the hand writing of his deceased father James Blake aforesaid, and which this affiant states upon his said oath, he believes it to be as it purports to be, a genuine "family record". And is as follows, to wit;
"Lydia Clifton in book August 24 th 1764 - (and given by her daughter Sally Clifton."
"James Blake was married the 11 th of August, 1777."
1 st "Lydia Blake was born 21 st of November, the year 1778."
2 nd "Polly Blake was born, July 10 th 1781."
3 rd "Richard Blake was born 10 th September, 1783."
4 th "Nancy Blake was born 4 th day of March, 1786."
5 th "James Blake was born about 13 th day, 1788."
"Sally Clifton was born April 6 th 1756"
The above is taken from their book of Common Prayer. Correctly - and the "original family record" is hereto annexed; at least so much as pertained to the marriage of said James Blake; the births of several of their children, and also the birth of the affiant's mother, Sarah Clifton . All of which "family record" this affiant believes to be genuine & true.
And further this affiant saith not.
Sworn and subscribed, the day and date first above written before me. J B M c Donnell J. Peace
John Blake
I certify that the said John Blake is a person of good standing, and is entitled to full credit & belief.
J B M c Donnell J. Peace
State of North Carolina I, John Taylor Clerk of Orange County Court of Pleas & Quarter Sessions do hereby certify that James Blake who signed foregoing Certificate was at that time a duly qualified Justice of the Peace. Witness my hand & seal of office 6 th July 1843 J. Taylor Clerk

John Blake.
Mr James H. Young New River
Orange County N.C.
10

3 Dean Chapel Mee October 18 - 1842
Dear Sir
Having not long since received word from my uncle Thomas Blake living in Montgomery County that upon further reflection respecting my deceased father James Blake revolutionary services he could now give some additional proof which I lost no time in attending to, as he is very old He proves my father was in the Virginia line in the early part of the war, and at the surrender of Lord Cornwallis, also in some matters. Thus My uncle Thomas Blake and my aunt Mary H. Blake both prove the marriage of my father & mother
You spoke of some other proof you could get of my deceased father's service in the war. Pray get it - I was in hopes that the proofs just sent would have been sufficient
And We had a family in a Bible but I do not now know any thing of it, it has been lost many years ago
I send you by the mail Thomas Blake's affidavit & hope it will reach you safely
Dr James A Craig New river
Me
I remain very truly your friend
John Blake

State of North Carolina } Orange County. }
On this the 28 th day of September, 1842, Came John Boudy a pensioner residing in Said County before me, and after being duly sworn according to Law, maketh Oath that, in the war of the Revolution he was a private of Infantry in the Maryland line, in the army of the Revolution, and was acquainted with James Blake in the army who was a private of Infantry in the Virginia Line, 3 rd Regt, and under Col. Mercer he thinks, the aforesaid James Blake was of Southampton County Virginia that Said Blake was in the army when this affiant joined. —
Remembers of Said Blake being in the battles of Trenton and Princeton and at Brandy wine, and at Monmouth and Middlebrook encampments. Said James Blake this affiant thinks was a twelve months Soldier and left the army in the fall or winter after the battle of Brandy wine. —
The said John Boudy further sets forth upon his said Oath, that, during the Siege of Little York in the Summer and fall of 1781, he again saw Said James Blake of Southampton, Virginia, in the United States Service as a Rifle militia man and was again under Col. Mercer and Genl. Lafayette and that Said Blake he thinks was either in the militia or State troops and heard him speak of being

under Genl. Wayne in the preceding Spring, in the battle of Green Spring. —
This affiant does not remember of seeing the said Blake in the Service after the Taking of Little York, in the winter following this affiant was marched to the South, as a recruit to the Southern army under General Green, and remained in the South till the close of the war. —
And further this affiant saith not. — Sworn and subscribed the day and date first written before me Thos Jones I. P.
his John X Boudy Mark
I do certify that, the deponent John Boudy, is known to me as a person of good character, and is entitled to full and ample credit.
Thos Jones I. P.
State of North Carolina
I John Taylor Clerk of Orange County Court of Pleas & Quarter Sessions, certify that Thomas Jones, who deposes the foregoing Certificate was at that time a duly Qualified Justice of the peace
Witness my hand & Seal of Office 5th Jan'y 1843
John Taylor

State of North Carolina Pamlico County ss On this the 11 th day of December 1842 personally appeared before the undersigned one of the acting Justices of the peace in and for the County of Pamlico aforesaid Mary M Blake a resident of the Town of Beaufort in the aforesaid County aged 82 years who being first duly sworn according to Law, deposed and said as follows. (In Wits)
That she was well acquainted with James Blake deceased, who was a soldier in the Virginia line in the war of the Revolution that said James Blake was born and raised in Southampton County Virginia where he was living when he served in the Revolutionary war
That this affiant's maiden name was Clifton that she also was born and raised in Southampton County aforesaid and further states that said James Blake was lawfully married to her Sister Sarah Clifton in the month of August about seventeen Hundred and seventy Eight (1778) Sixty four years ago - that this affiant was present and saw them married - that they were married by the Reverend George Gierley That soon after the war closed said

James Blake and his Sister Sarah removed to Wake County North Carolina where her said Mother in Law Sarah Blake died about fifty two years ago. That about forty years, her Sister Sarah then a widow moved up to Orange County, and settled in the village of Chapel Hill where she resided until her death which occurred five or six years ago.
That her said Sister as she has understood left surviving her but no children. To wit, Mary and John
That her said Sister Sarah did not marry after the death of the aforesaid James Blake but remained his Widow until her death and further this deponent saith not witness and subscribed the day and year last above mentioned before
me J. P. Cook (JB) Mary M. X Blake J. P. Cook (JB) Mark
I do hereby certify that the aforesaid Mary M. Blake is a person of good character and entitled to full credit
J. P. Cook (JB)

State of North Carolina Cumberland County ss I John McLaurin Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions in and for the County of Cumberland do hereby certify that John H Cook Esq is a magistrate as above and That the foregoing signature purporting to be his are genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my Seal of Office and subscribed my name at Fayetteville on this the 14 th day of December 1842
John McLaurin.

This is to Certify, That it appears from a List in this Office of such Officers and Soldiers of the Virginia Continental Line, during the Revolutionary War, as settled their Accounts, and received Certificates for the balance of their Full Pay, according to an Act of Assembly, passed the November Session 1781, that a Certificate issued on the 10 th day of Decem r 1781 , in the name of James Blake as a Soldier of Infantry for £ 10. 5. 6 , which Certificate appears to have been delivered to W m Reynolds and was given for services prior to the 1st January 1782.
10337. { No Seal of Office. }
Given under my hand at the Auditor's Office, Richmond, this 16 th day of November 1842.
Jas. E. Heath , AUDITOR.

CH 11 R NOV 16
[Handwritten signature]
James A Craig Esq
Haw-River
North Carolina.

Auditors Office
Nov: 16. 1842
Dear Sir
I have received yours of the 9 th inst, & agreeably to your request send you a certificate of the settlement of James Blake.
Very respectfully,
Yrs
J. L. Heath

Sarah Blake
N.6.
act 4 July 36
76. 2 a Line 12
81. Mitilia \frac{3}{15} Mo.
adm d
15 Mo fri
50. D from 4 March 31. to 26 July 39 - to John & Mary Blake only surviving children
H m R. M. Saunders H m 22

Pension Office
May 23, 1842
Sir,
The additional testimony in support of the claim of the heirs of M rs Sarah Blake, du re , widow of James Blake du re under the act of July 4, 1836, has been examined and filed with the other papers in the case. The evidence of the service having been as an enlisted soldier in the Virginia line is not sufficient. It is believed that the service was as a militia man, and if so, each tour of actual service should be specified, showing under what officers the tours were performed, the period and the duration of each tour. It will be necessary, in order to establish the claim under the act of July 4, 1836, that record or documentary proof of the period of the marriage be produced.
I have the honor to be
Very respectfully
Your Ob dt . Serv t .
J L Edw ds
Hon. William L. Graham Senate U. States