Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S. 19909, John S Billings, New Jersey Privateer

SERVICE
NUMBER
New Jersey Privateer
Billings, John S. Hebe
S. 19909 B.L. Mt 30,943-160-55
CONTENTS

See letter to Hon. A. T. Judson, Dec. 4. 1835 - same Dec. 7. 1835
see letter to Hon. A. T. Judson 5. Mar. 1836 do. to same 21 May 1836 - do. to same May 30. 1836 - do. to same June 28. 1836 - do. to Hon. G. Tomlinson
Dec 30. 1836 - same Jan 30, 1837 Let to Hon. J. H. Brockway July 6. 1842. same July 7. 1842
Increase to $8 per month 21. July 1842 From June 30. 1837. Certificate sent to Hon. J. H. Brockway, House of Representatives
Comm.
John S. Billings Missouri
Captain Sealy's company of the Revolu- tionary Army. Major and Private
Ratio of disability, One half
Date of discharge,
Time of closing the testimony, 14 Feb y 1831
Inscribed on the Roll of Connecticut
at four dollars per month, to commence on the
1 st of February 1831 -
Certificate of pension issued on the 20. of May 1831 and sent to John Baldwin Esq. Windham Connecticut
Arrears to 4th March 1831 $2. 65 1/2
Semi-annual all'ce ending 4 Sep r 1830 24
$26-65 1/2
Act of the 24 Mar 1828. Recd. Book. D. Vol. 2 p. 3

Original Claim.
United States.
Connecticut District, ss.
I, W m Bristol Judge of the District Court of the United States of America for the Connecticut District, by authority of an act of Congress, passed the 4 th of February, 1822, entitled "An Act to revive and continue in force An act to provide for persons who were disabled by known wounds received in the Revolutionary War, and for the purposes, do hereby especially authorize and commission the Hon John Baldwin of the county of Windham and District of Connecticut to take all evidence pursuant to the rules and regulations of the said act, for substantiating the claim of John S. Billings of the town of Windham in the county of Windham and District of Connecticut to be placed on the Pension List of the United States, by reason of known wounds received in said War, or since, (as prescribed in the fourth section of "An Act concerning invalid pensioners," passed the 25 th of April, 1808,) while in the actual service of the United States, and in the line of his duty. And when the same shall be completed, to return the evidence, affidavits, certificates, and proceedings had hereupon, together with this commission, to the Secretary for the Department of War.
Given under my hand and seal, at New Haven the 26 th day of August in the year one thousand eight hundred and thirty.
W m Bristol Judge of the U States District Court for the State of Conn t .

2 I John S Billings of Windham in the county of Windham and State of Connecticut do upon oath testify and say that according to the best of my belief I was born at Groton in the county of New London and State of Connecticut on the first day of August AD 1762 when I lived with my parents until the Spring of the year 1776 when I went to Chatham in the State of New- Jersey that in the last part of the month of May or beginning of the month of June in the year of 1776 at said Chatham I enlisted as a fifer for the term of six months in Capt- Sylvanus Sealy's Company attached to Col. Elkanah Martin's Regiment of Infantry which company and Regiment I continued to serve as Fifer in said company until the 27 th day of August AD 1776. And that on the morning of the 28 th day of August 1776 at Flatbush on Long Island in the State of New York that while I was in the line of my duty in the company & Regiment to which I belonged and while in an engagement with the common enemy of our country I was wounded by a musket Ball through the left leg just above the ankle joint which disabled me so that I could not do my duty as fifer any longer and was taken and carried from off the Field of action to the Hospital near Cobble Hill Fort so called and in two or three days afterwards I was removed to the Hospital in the City of New York near the Bowery and in about three or four weeks after I was removed with others who were sick and wounded to a place called Parsippany in the State of New Jersey where I remained a cripple and was prevented by reason of said wound from doing duty till discharged from the army. and I

further say that by reason of said wound I remained a cripple and unable to attend to business for about one year after I was discharged from the Army after I got so well as to go about without a (limb) I lived in the Family of a Mr James Hagg and did what work I was able to perform for my support untill December AD 1778 when I returned from New Jersey to Boston in Connecticut the aforesaid Mr James Hagg has been dead a number of years as I have been informed. The Surgeon who I prepared took charge of my wound was a Doctor Darby who has been dead more than Twenty years as I am informed. immediately after I returned home to Boston I went to New London in Connecticut and enlisted on board of a Privateer Commanded by Captain Nichols Hoselick where I continued & served for six Months and when discharged from the sd. Privateer I went into the employ of a Merchantman Ship as a common hand or Sailor — which business I constantly followed from the Port of Norwich and New London in the coasting and West India trade as a common Sailor as aforesaid untill the year 1794 when I served as Mate until the year 1805 after which time I served as Ship Master or Captain of a Merchantman until the year AD 1817 when by reason of sickness and ill health I was compelled to quit the business and have not been able to do but very little since by reason of lameness & infirmity.
In the year 1786 I was Married and my Family resided in the Town of Boston aforesaid until the year 1798 when I removed with them to Albin = barn in the County of Winaumans & State of Connecticut where I have lived & made it my home to the present time — and I do further say that in

4 consequence of the aforesaid wound I have suffered much pain and have always been and now are lame and unable to attend to business as I might do were it not for said lameness occasioned by said wound. And the reasons why I have not applied before for a Pension are that I did not know of the Law giving Pensions to persons wounded in the Revolutionary war, until about six years since when I made application to the Hon James Laurman who was then a Senator in Congress for directions how to proceed; and he then directed me to procure the affidavit of my commanding officer to the fact of my enlistment and the wound I received while in the line of my duty on which information I went to Chatham in the State of New Jersey and on enquiry found that said officer had removed a number years before into Wayne County in the State of Pennsylv- =vania and had there died.
I then supposed there was no relief for me until within four or five months; when I was informed that in case of the death of Commanding Officer the facts of enlistment wounds &c might be proved by other witnesses than the Officer. And I do further say that I have never applied to the Secretary of War for a pension until the month of October last past which application with my papers were returned for being insufficient & informal which application I now renew with further affidavits &c. And I do further say that I am not on the Pension list of any of the United States.
Winsham February 14 th 1831
John S Billings.

To whom it may concern
This may certify that I have this day examined the family records of the late John S Billings now in the possession of his Widow Phebe Billings & find the following viz
John S Billings and Phebe Spicer was married Nov 13 th 1785 at Groton
Also John S Billings died on the 23 rd day of August 1842 at Windham
The above is a true copy of the original
Windham March 26 1855 Sam Lee Noty Public
State of Connecticut } County of Windham } ss. Windham On this 26 th day of March A.D. 1855 personally appeared before me. Horace Hall, a Justice of the Peace, with regard for the County and State. Samuel Lee, a resident of Windham, in the state of Connecticut, who being duly sworn according to law, declares that he has this day examined the family records of the late John S. Billings of Windham, and the certificate by him subscribed is a true copy of the original. He further declares that he was well acquainted with the said John S. Billings, in his lifetime. Also his wife, Phebe Billings, and that she remains his widow.
Sam Lee
The foregoing affidavit was sworn to and subscribed before me the day and year above written, and I certify that I have known the affiant to be a credible person.
Horace Hall Justice of the Peace

State of Connecticut County of Windham } ss.
I Thomas Gray Clerk of the County Court for the County of Windham hereby certify that Horace Hall Esq. before whom the within affidavit of Samuel See Esq. was made & who has subscribed the same, was at the time of so doing a Justice of the Peace for said Windham County, duly appointed and qualified, & the signature of the said Justice Horace Hall Esq. is his genuine signature.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, & seal of said County Court This 12 th day of April A.D. 1855.
Thomas Gray Clerk

89452 Act Mar 3
Apr 21 } 55
Phebe Billings wid. John S. Billings Muscian
Ent. Lois } } } } }
Rev n war
Rev n pensioned
comm at Ennals
W. H. Allen Mar 28/55
W. H. Allen
ad: 160 Ac. p.m. 18/55
[Handwritten signature] B. G. Allen
Daniel Lee
Willimantic Co.
Gov S. Lee Nov 21/55 Set. " " Jan. 30/56 Set. " " " 18/56
Vol B=1-141

Old Bay
89452
/
Samuel Lee Willimantic Conn

STATE OF CONNECTICUT, } ss. Windham COUNTY OF Windham }
On this 26 th day of March A. D. one thousand eight hundred and fifty five personally appeared
before me, a Notary Public, within and for the County and State aforesaid, Phebe Billings aged Ninety years, a resident of Windham
in the State of Connecticut, who being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the widow of John S Billings deceased, who
was a Musician in the Company commanded by for proof of the service rendered by my said husband John S Billings refer me to the in the Revolutionary regiment of commanded by
in the war with Great Britain, declared by the United States on the 18th day of June 1812 , by refer to the proof now on file in the Pension office at Washington that her said husband granting him a pension; a copy of which is herunto annexed on, or about the day of A. D. for the term of
and was honorably discharged at on the day of A. D. as will appear by the muster rolls
of said She further states that she was married to the said John S Billings in Groton on the 13th day of there being no public record of my said marriage day of November A. D. 1785 by one Park Allen a Clergyman and that her name before her said marriage was Phebe Spicer that her said husband died at Windham on the 23 rd day of August A. D. 1842 and that she is now a widow.
She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the bounty land to which she may be entitled under the act approved March 3d, 1855. She also declares that she has not received a warrant for bounty land under this or any other act of Congress, nor made any other application therefor.
Phebe Billings
We, Gilbert Billings and Emily Billings residents of Windham in the State of Connecticut, upon our oaths declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Phebe Billings in our presence, and that we believe, from the appearance and statements of the applicant, that she is the identical person she represents herself to be.
Gilbert Billings
Emily Billings
The foregoing declaration and affidavit were sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year above written; and I certify that I know the affiants to be credible persons, that the claimant is the person she represents herself to be, and that I have no interest in this claim,
Dan Lee Notary Public.

State of Connecticut } County of Windham } ss
I Thomas Gray Clerk of the County Court for S d Windham County hereby certify that Samuel See Esq before whom the foregoing Declaration & Affidavit were made & acknowledged, and who has thereunto subscribed his name, was at the time of so doing a Notary Public of the State of Connecticut duly commissioned and qualified, and that his signature thereto is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed the seal of S d Court this 31 st day of March A d 1855
Thomas Gray Clerk

In reply to your request of 20 Oct , received 21 Oct for a statement of the military history of John S. Billings 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. S.F. 19909.
   DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. LENGTH OF SERVICE. RANK. OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. STATE.   CAPTAIN. COLONEL.     May or June, 1776. 6 mos. Fifer Sylvanus Seeley. Ebenezer Martin N.J.   Dec., 1778. 6 " Sailor On board Privateer commanded by (Capt. Nichol Forster)  
Battles engaged in, Wounded in ankle at battle of Long Island. Residence of soldier at enlistment, Chatham, N.J.; Groton Conn at d'ent. Date of application for pension, Aug. 26 1830 His cl. was al. Residence at date of application, Windham, Windham Co., Conn. Age at date of application, B. Aug. 1 1762 Groton, New London Co., Conn. Remarks: He married in 1786, name of wife not stated.

State of Connecticut Windham County
ss. Windham February 12 th 1831
The above named John S Billings signed of the foregoing affidavit, made solemn oath to the truth of the same before me and I do hereby certify that in my opinion he the said John S. Billings is a credible witness.
John Baldwin Commissioner
The Deposition of Capt o William A. Morgan of Lebanon in New London County & State of Connecticut is as follows. I have been acquainted with Capt o John S. Billings of Windham in S t State of Connecticut from a child, that the S d Billing lived in Grotton in said State from 1778 after his being wounded until 1796 when I removed from said Grotton to Colebrook in S d State, the said Billings business during said time, was following the seas. I have since known him as a resident of the town of Windham in S d State & have occasionally seen him since that time at Windham and have known of his following the seas the greater part of the time since until on or about the year 1817.
Dated at Windham the 3 rd day of December 1830, William A Morgan
State of Connecticut Windham County
ss. Windham December 3 rd day A D 1830
The above named William A Morgan signed of the foregoing affidavit made solemn oath to the truth of the same before me,
John Baldwin Commissioner
I do hereby certify that in my opinion the above named William A. Morgan is a credible witness.
John Baldwin Commissioner.

6 I Charles L. Buett of Woodstock in the County of Windham in the State of Connecticut in the Seventy eighth year of my age; do testify and say that in the year Seventeen hundred and Seventy six I belonged to the United States Army and served as waiter to Capt. Sylvanus Sealy who was then attached to Col. Spencer Martin's Regiment of Infantry that in the morning of the 27 th day of August A D 1776 at Flat Bush on Long Island in an engagement with the common enemy of our country I saw Thos S Billings of Groton in Connecticut who was then a fifer in said Capt. Sealy's company and while in the line of his duty was wounded by a musket Ball through the leg Just above the ankle joint and saw him the said Billings taken and carried from off the Field of action to the Hospital near Cable Hill, Post and within two or three days afterwards he was removed to the Hospital in the city of New- York near the Bowery, and in about three or four weeks after he was removed with others who was sick & wounded to a place called Parsippany in the State of New Jersey where I left him wholly unable to do duty by reason of the wound aforesaid; and did not see him again until sometime in the forepart of the month of December 1776 and until after the said Company to which he the said Billings & myself belonged were dis- -charged the time of our enlistment having been for the term of six months which term expired sometime in the month of November 1776 when we were discharged; and I further say that when I returned to Parsippany in the month of Decem- -ber 1776 after the discharge of said company as aforesaid I found the said Billings still

remaining in the Hospital where I left him then unable to walk about without crutches and I do further say, that the said John S. Billings by reason of the aforesaid wound was prevented from doing duty till discharged from the army, and I do know that he remained a cripple and was very lame through the winter following I have always known him the s d Billings since, the said Billings I think in the year A D 1778 return- -ed to Gorton in the county of New London in the State of Connecticut where he continued to live or make it his home until about the year 1798 when the said Billings removed with his family to Windham in the county of Windham State of Connecticut where he has lived to the present time and I further say that I do know that the said Billings ever since he recovered of the aforesaid wound so as to be able to attend to any business has followed the season for his em- -ployment until within about twelve years since which time by reason of ill health and infir- -mity has not been able to do but very little business of any kind, and further the Deponent sayth not.
Dated at Windham the 28 th day of December 1830
Charles Le Bret
State of Connecticut Windham County } ss. Windham December 28 th day A D 1830 The above named Charles Le Bret signed to the foregoing affidavit made solemn oath to the truth of the same before me, and I do hereby certify that in my opinion he the said Charles Le Bret is a credible witness
John Baldwin Commissioner

8 I Peter Lawrence of Windham in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut being now then seventy years of age do testify and say that in the month of August A D 1770 I belonged to a regiment of Infantry under the command of Col. John Durkee Stationed at Poughkeepsie near New York City I then as a volunteer joined a detachment to go to Flat Bush on Long Island under the command of Majr. Thomas Knowlton and that on or about the 27 th day of August 1776 in the forepart of the day while in an action with the common enemy of our country at said Flat Bush I saw a young man who was then a stranger to me and who was said to be a fifer in Martins Regiment called by the name of John S. Billings wounded with a musket ball in the leg or ankle and saw him carried from off the field of action and I further say in about four or five weeks afterwards saw him in the Hospital at the Bowery in the City of New York he was then a cripple by reason of the aforesaid wound. I have always known him since that time and that from about the year 1778 till the year 1798 he lived in Groton in the State of Connecticut and followed the seas for his employment and that in the year 1798 according to the best of my recollection he re- -moved from Groton to Windham in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut where he has continued to live to the present time: he continued to follow the seas for his employment until about the year 1817 since which time by reason of ill health has not been able to do but very little business and I know that he has always continued to be

same by reason of the aforesaid wound and he has frequently complained to me of the pain and sufferings which he had to endure by reason of said wound and further Deponent saith not.
Windham January 6 th 1831 Peter Saunders
State of Connecticut
Windham County ss. Windham January 6 th 1831
The above named Peter Saunders signed to the foregoing affidavit made solemn oath to the truth of the same before me - and I do hereby certify that in my opinion he the said Peter Saunders is a credible witness.
John Baldwin Commissioner
State of Connecticut
New London County
City of Norwich ss September 27 th A.D. (1830.)
To whom it may concern.
Be it known that some years since according to my best knowledge and belief when I was a member of the Senate of the United States. Capt. John S. Billings of the town and county of Windham in this state. applied to me in regard to the obtaining of a pension from the United States on account of military services and a wound received by him therein, during the Revolutionary war. Upon his statement of facts I recommended to him to procure the evidence of his commanding officers who I understood from him resided in the State of New Jersey. He has since informed me that he proceeded to New Jersey, and found that said officer had removed into Wayne County in Pennsylvania, and had there deceased Capt. Billings is a

man of good character, and I cannot think is chargeable with dilatory conduct in regard to his application for a pension —
James Lanman late a
Senator in Congress, —
I am requested to add as a further fact, within my knowledge and observation, that for many years prior to the year 1817, the said Billings sailed in command and as an officer, or board, of sundry vessels from this port, for the West India Trade, and ever sustained a fair character for integrity: In what year he gave up a sea faring life I am unable to say. Nor do I know by what means since he has been enabled to support himself. He has evidently been for years past in a state of health, much less robust than for- merly but, I cannot attest, that on this account, or for what reason he abandoned a sea faring life. — — — — —
City of Norwich
James Lanman
February 8 th 1831.
State of Connecticut
New London county } S. Norwich February 8 th day AD 1831
The above named James Lanman signed to the above and foregoing affidavit made solemn oath to the truth of the same before me, and I do hereby certify that the said James Lanman is a credible witness
John Baldwin Commissioner
Surgeon's affidavit.
Windham Connecticut Sept. 21. 1830 (Date)
It is hereby certified, that John S. Billings a fife in the company of Capt. Sealy who was attached to Col. Ephraim Martins Regiment of Infantry

is rendered incapable of performing the duty of a soldier, by reason of wounds or other injuries inflicted while he was actually in the service aforesaid, and in the line of his duty, viz. By satisfactory evidence and accurate examination, it appears that on the 27 th day of August in the year 1776 being engaged with the common enemy of our country at or near a place called Flat Bush on Long Island in the district, or territory, of New York he received a wound by a musket ball in his left leg just above the ankle joint passing between the bones cutting and wounding the most important ligaments and tendons of the leg and joint thereby greatly impairing and incommoding the natural motions of the same and he is thereby not only incapacitated for military duty, but, in the opinion of the undersigned, is one half disabled from obtaining his subsistence from manual labor.
Chester Hunt Surgeon. William Webb Surgeon.
State of Connecticut County of Windham } Windham September 21 st AD 1830 Personally appeared the above named Chester Hunt & William Webb who subscribed the above affidavit and made solemn oath to the truth of the same before me and I do certify that they are both well known to me and that they are both very respectable in their profession as Surgeons and Doctors of Medicine and in my opinion are credible witnesses.
John Baldwin Commissioner

Remained 19909 INVALID.
Jan. 8. 1910. History to A.B. Roberts, Hampton, Conn. F.W.
File No. 19909
John S. B. King Musicians Con Regt
Act: May 25, 1864
Index:—Vol. 2 , Page 87
[Arrangement of 1870.]
✓ 30 943
✓ V. Am

under act of April 16, 1842. Increased, from $4. to $8. per month 21 st July 1843. from 30 th June 1837. Certif. sent to Hon. J. H. Brockway, Warden of Penitentiary. Reported to Agent, see letter
Duplicate 1521 Connecticut
John S. Billings Musician
Captain Scaly's company of the Revolutionary Army New Jersey & Privater
Ratio of disability, one half
Date of discharge,
Time of closing the testimony, 16. Feb. 1831
Inscribed on the Roll of Connecticut
at four Dollars per month, to commence on the 17 th February 1831
Certificate of Pension issued the 20 th of May 1831 and sent to John Baldwin, Esq. Windham Co.
Arrears to 14th of Semi-annual all co ending
Act of the 24. May 1828
Record. Book. F

John A. Billings' due June 1873 Natick
FREE
Boynton
Revolutionary
First National Bank Boston Filling Station 150 State Street Boston Massachusetts
Official Brief
Henry J. Hinot
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington
D.C.

Mr. S. Billings - Ch. W. Oswald. For what time & at what rate was he last paid? paid to the 4 Sep - 1836 Pay off in Dec 30 - 1836 at the rate of 4 dls pr mo. JH
3-871.
RECORD DIVISION.
Department of the Interior, BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
Briefed by A. E. P. Inv. Claim No. 19909 Certificate No. 1521 Claimant _____ Soldier John S. Billings Service _____ Additional Service Rev.
No. _____ claim, State records _____, 190._____
No claim, combination records _____, 190._____
REMARKS:
No O. W. inv. evid. or rejected except as above.

War Department Invalid Pensions.
I certify that in conformity with the laws of the United States of the 24 th of May 1828 John J Billings late a Musician of the United States Army was on the 20 th day of May 1831 inscribed on the pension List Roll of the Connecticut Agency at the rate of four Dollars per month and that his name is now on the roll of the same agency at the rate of Eight Dollars per month commencing on the 13 th day of June 1837 under act of Apr 14, 1842. This certificate is issued in lieu of one dated on the 24 th day of May 1831 which has been cancelled.
Given at the war office of the United States This twenty first day of July 1842
Signed John C Spencer Examined and countersigned Secy of War J. L Edwards Commission of Pensions

I HEREBY certify, that the accompanying page ✓ numbered from one to eleven, inclusive, are truly copied from the original ✓ in the Office of the Commissioner of Pensions, Department of War.
J. L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions.
BE IT REMEMBERED, That JAMES L. EDWARDS, who has signed the foregoing certificate, is Commissioner of Pensions; and that to his attes- tations full faith and credit are and ought to be given.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto subscribed my name, and caused the seal of the Department to be affixed, on this twenty- sixth day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty- seven.
B. H. Butler
Secretary of War, ad interim.

ORIGINAL CLAIM.
United States.
Connecticut
DISTRICT, ss.
I, Thos. D. Doolittle Judge of the District Court of the United States of America for the Connecticut District, by AUTHORITY of an act of Congress, passed the 4th of February, 1822, entitled "An act to revive and continue in force 'An act to provide for persons who were disabled by known wounds received in the Revolutionary War, and for other purposes, DO
HEREBY ESPECIALLY AUTHORIZE AND COMMISSION the Hon. John D. Baldwin of the county of Windham and district of Connecticut to take all evidence pursuant to the rules and regulations of the said act, for substan- tiating the claim of John S. Billings of the town of Windham in the county of Windham and district of Connecticut to be placed on the Pension List of the United States, by reason of known wounds received in said war, or since, (as prescribed in the fourth section of "An act concerning invalid pensioners," passed the 25th of April, 1808,) while in the actual service of the United States, and in the line of his duty. And when the same shall be completed, to return the evidence, affidavits, certificates, and proceedings had hereupon, together with this commission, to the Secretary for the Department of War.
Given under my hand and seal, at New Haven the 26 th day of August in the year one thousand eight hundred and thirty
Thos Doolittle Judge of U States District Court within State of Conn.

INCREASE OF PENSION.
United States.
DISTRICT, ss.
To Doctor of Doctor
and of
in said district.
Pursuant to an act of Congress of the United States, passed the 4th of February, 1822, entitled "An act to revive and continue in force 'An act to provide for persons who were disabled by known wounds received in the Revolutionary war, and for other purposes,'" you are hereby appointed and authorized to examine
who is inscribed on the Pension List of the United States, and is claimant for an increase of pension, conformably to the 5th section of the act of the 10th April, 1806, revived as aforesaid; and you are to report in writing, and on oath or affirmation, your opinion of the nature of his disability , and in what degree it prevents him from obtaining a subsistence by manual labor; and in your proceedings in the premises you are to be regulated and governed by said act.
Given under my hand and seal, at this _____ day of in the year one thousand eight hundred and

IN SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES,
DECEMBER 28, 1841.
Mr. PIERCE, from the Committee on Pensions, reported the following bill; which was read, and passed to a second reading.
An Act
A BILL
For the relief of John S. Billings.
1 Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives 2 of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That 3 the pension allowed to John S. Billings, an invalid pensioner, be 4 increased to eight dollars per month, from the last day of June, 5 one thousand eight hundred and thirty-seven, and to continue 6 during his natural life.
Approved, Dec d 1842
A true copy compared with the Roll in this office
Dept. of State } July 5 th 1842 }
M. S. Derrick Actg Chief Clerk

John S Billings Affidavit Feb 14
1831
Of the foregoing affidavit I make solemn oath to the truth of the same before me and I do hereby certify that in my opinion the said John S Billings is a credible witness
John Baldwin Commissioner

I John S Billings of Windham in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut do upon oath testify and say that according to the best of my belief I was Born at Groton in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut. on the first day of August A D 1762 when I lived with my Parents untill the Spring of the year 1776 when I went to Chatham in the State of New Jersey that in the last part of the month of May or beginning of the month of June in the year of 1776 at said Chatham I enlisted as a Fifer for the term of six Months in Capt Sylvanus Sealy's Company attached to Col Ephraim Martin's Regiment of Infantry which Company and Regiment I continued to serve as Fifer in said Company untill the 27 th day of August A D 1776 and that on the morning of the 27 th day of August 1776 at Flat Bush on Long Island in the State of New York that while I was in the line of my duty in the Company & Regiment to which I belonged and while in an engagement with the Common Enemy of our Country I was wounded by a musket Ball through the left Leg just above the ankle joint which disabled me so that I could not do my duty as Fifer any longer - and was taken and Carried

from off the field of action to the Hospital near Cobble Hill Fort so called and in two or three days afterwards I was removed to the Hospital in the City of New York near the Bowery and in about three or four weeks after I was removed with others who were sick and wounded to a place called Parsippany in the State of New Jersey where I remained a cripple and was prevented by reason of said wound from doing duty until till discharged from the Army. and I further say that by reason of said wound I remain a cripple and unable to attend to business for about one year after I was discharged from the Army after I got so well as to go about without a stick stick I lived in the family of a James Mrs Stagg and did what work I was able to perform for my support until December 2 nd 1778 when I returned from New Jersey to Graton in Connecticut the aforesaid Mrs Stagg has been dead a number of years as I have been informed. The Surgeon who cured and took charge of my wound was a Doctor Parley who has been here more than twenty years as I am informed - immediately after I returned home to Graton I went to New London in Connecticut and mustered on board of a Privateer commanded by Capt Nichols Folsick where I continued & served for six months and when discharged from this Privateer I went into the employ of a Merchantman Ship as a common hand or Sailor in which business I constantly followed from the Ports of Norwich and New London, as a common sailor as aforesaid until the year 1794 when I served as Mate until the year 1805 after which time I served

as Ship Master or Captain of a Merchantman until the Year AD 1817 when by reason of sickness and ill health I was compelled to quit the business and have not been able to do but very little since by reason of lameness & infirmity
In the Year 1786 I was Married and my Family resided in the Town of Groton aforesaid until the Year 1798 when I removed with them to Windham in the County of Windham & State of Connecticut where I have lived & made it my home to the present time - and I do further say that in consequence of the aforesaid wound I have suffered much pain and have always been and now are lame and unable to attend to business as I might do were it not for said lameness occasioned by said wound - And the reasons why I have not applied before for a Pension are that I did not know of the Law giving Pensions to persons wounded in the Revolutionary war; until about six years since when I made application to the Hon James Lanman who was then a Senator in Congress for directions how to proceed; and he then directed me to procure the Affidavit of my Commanding Officer to the fact of my enlistment and the wound I received while in the line of my duty on which information I went to Chatham in the State of New Jersey and on enquiring there that said Officer had removed some years before into Wayne County in Pennsylvania and had there died and as far as I could learn there was no relief for me until about four or five Months; when I was

informed that in case of the death of commanding officer the facts of enlistment wounds &c might be proved by other witnesses than the officer and I do further say that I have never applied to the Secretary of War for a Pension until the month of October last past which application with my papers were returned for being insufficient & informal which application I now renew with further affidavits &c and I do further say that I am not on the Pension list of any of the United States John S. Billings. Windham February 14 th 1831
State of Connecticut ss Windham February 14 th 1831 Windham County
The above named John S. Billings signer of the foregoing affidavit made solemn oath to the truth of the same before me and I do hereby certify that in my opinion he the said John S. Billings is a credible witness John Baldwin Commissioner
John S. Billings Affidavit Feb 14 1831

SURGEON'S AFFIDAVIT.
Wenham Conn. et al. Sept. 21 st 1830 (Date.)
IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED, That John L. Billings a sergeant in the Company of Capt. Seely who was attached to Col. Ethan Allen's  Infantry Regiment of the United States is rendered incapable of performing the duty of a soldier, by reason of wounds or other injuries inflicted while he was actually in the service aforesaid, and in the line of his duty, viz.
By satisfactory evidence and accurate examination, it appears that on the
29 th day of August in the year 1846
being engaged with the Common enemy of our country at or near a place called Red Bank on Song Island in the district, or territory, of New York he received a wound by a musket
ball in his * Left leg just above the ankle Joint passing between the bones cutting and wounding the most important ligaments and tendons of the leg and Joint thereby greatly impairing and incommodeing the natural motion of the same.
and he is thereby, not only incapacitated for military duty, but, in the opinion of the undersigned, is one half disabled from obtaining his subsistence from manual labor.
Chester Hunt Surgeon.
William Webb Surgeon.
* N.B.—The blank in the last line but one is to be filled up with the proportional "degree" of disability; for example: "three-fourths"—"one-half"—"one-third," &c. &c. or, "totally," as the case may be.
☞ The magistrate who may administer the oaths to the Surgeons must certify that they are reputable in their profession, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
* Here give a particular description of the wound, injury, or disease, and specify in what manner it has affected the applicant so as to produce disability in the degree stated.
State of Connecticut } Wenham September 21 st 1830 County of Windham } Personally appeared the above named Chester Hunt & William Webb who subscribed the above affidavit and made solemn oath to the truth of the same before me and I do certify that they are both well known to me and that they are both reputable in their profession as Surgeons and Doctors of Medicine and in my opinion are credible witnesses John Baldwin Commissioner

Charles Le Breton affidavit (Nov 28 th 1830)

I Charles L. Brett of Woodstock in the County of Windham in the State of Connecticut in the Seventy Eighth year of my age do testify and say that in the year Seventeen hundred and Seventy Six I belonged to the United States Army and served as waiter to Capt Sylvanus Sealy who was then attached to Col Ephraim Martins Regiment of Infantry that in the morning of the 27th day of August A D 1876 at Flat Bush on Long Island in an engagement with the Common enemy of our Country I saw John S. Billings of Groton in Connecticut who was then a piper in said Capt Sealy's Company, and while in the line of his duty was wounded by a Musket Ball through the leg just above the ankle joint and saw him the said Billings taken and carried from off the field of action to the Hospital near Cobble Hill Fort and within two or three days afterwards he was removed to the Hospital in the City of New York near the Bowery, and in about three or four weeks after he was removed with others who were sick & wounded to a place called Parsippany in the State of New Jersey where I left him wholly unable to do duty by reason of the wound aforesaid, and did not see him again until some time in the forepart of the month of December 1876 and until after the Company to which he the said Billings & myself belonged were discharged the time of our enlistment having been

been for the term of six months which term expired some time in the month of November 1876 when we were discharged; and I further say that when I returned to Percipany in the month of December 1876 after the discharge of said Company as aforesaid I found the said Billings still remaining in the Hospital where I left him then unable to walk about without crutches and I do further say that the said John S. Billings by reason of the aforesaid wound was prevented from doing duty till discharged from the army and I do know that he remained a cripple and was very lame through the winter following I have always known him the said Billings since the said Billings I think in the year A D 1878 returned to Groton in the County of New London in the State of Connecticut where he continued to live of make it his home about the year 1898 when the said Billings removed with his family to Windham in the County of Windham & State of Connecticut where he has lived to the present time and I further say that I do know that the said Billings ever since he received of the aforesaid wound so as to be able to attend to any business has followed the for his employment seas until within about twelve years since which thing  which thing by reason of ill health and infirmity has not been able to do but very little business of any kind

and further the Deponent sayth not (Dated at Windham this Charles LeBrett v 28 th day of December 1830
State of Connecticut } ss Windham December 28 th day A.D. 1830 Windham County }
The above named Charles LeBrett Signer to the foregoing affidavit made solemn Oath to the truth of the same before me and I do hereby certify that in my opinion that he the said Charles LeBrett is a credible witness John Baldwin Commissioner

Peter Saunders Affidavit January 6 th 1831

I Peter Saunders of Windham in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut being more than Seventy Years of age do hereby And say that in the month of August A D 1776 I belonged to a regiment of Infantry under the Command of Col John Durkee Stationed at Poughkeepsie near New York City I then as a volunteer joined a detachment to go to Flat Bush on Long Island under the Command of Majr Thomas Pennington and that on or about the 27 th day of August 1776 in the forepart of the day while in an action with the Common Enemy of our Country at said Flat Bush I saw a young Man who was then a stranger to me and who was said to be a Tifer in Martins Regiment called by the name of John S. Billings was wounded with a Musket Ball in the Leg or ankle and Saw him Carried from off the field of Action further say in about four or five weeks and afterwards saw him in the Hospital at the Bowery in the City of New York he was then a cripple by reason of the aforesaid wound I have always known him since that time and that from about the Year 1778 till the Year 1798 he lived in Groton in the State of Connecticut and followed the Seas for his employment and that

and that in the year 1798 according to the best of my recollection he removed from Grafton to Windham in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut where he has continued to live to the present time: he continued to follow the seas for his employ ment until about the year 1817 since which time by reason of ill health has not been able to do but very little business since and I know that he has always continued to be lame by reason of the above said wound and he has frequently complained to me of the pain and sufferings which he has had to endure by reason of said wound and further I do not faith not Peter Saunders v Windham January 6 th 1831
State of Connecticut } ss Windham January 6 th 1831 Windham County } The above named Peter Saunders signer to the foregoing affidavit made solemn oath to the truth of the same before me and I do hereby certify that in my opinion he the said Peter Saunders is a credible witness John Baldwin Commissioner

Wm A Morgan.
Adjutant

The Deposition of Cap t William A. Morgan of Sebago in New London County & State of Connecticut is as follows — I have been acquainted with Capt John S. Billings of Windham in S t State of Connecticut, from a child, That the S d Billings, lived in Groton in said State from 1778 after his being wounded until 1796 when I removed from said Groton to Colchester in S t State, The said Billings business during said time, was following the seas. I have since known him as a resident of the town of Windham in S t State & have occasionally seen him since that time at Windham and have known of his following the seas the greater part of the time since until on or about the year 1817 —
Dated at Windham the 3 d day of December 1830
William A. Morgan
State of Connecticut } Windham County } ss Windham December 3 rd day A D 1830.
The above named William A. Morgan signed of the foregoing affidavit made solemn oath to the truth of the same before me
John Baldwin Commissioner
I do hereby certify that in my opinion the above named William A. Morgan is a credible witness John Baldwin Commissioner

John S. Billings July 4, 1842
Hon. John D. Brockman M.C. Washington City PAID 37 3/4 JUL 7 1842 FREE

Windham June 30 th 1842
Hon John H. Brockway
Dear Sir yours kind letter is recd stating that my petition has passed both Houses and had recd the signature of the President as I have not got any certificate that I can draw my Pension I shall have to trouble you to send me one I am very sorry to trouble you again but as I dont now any course to take I the liberty to write to you once more yours Old Servant Pe
John S Billings
to Hon John H Brockway

Hon James Lamman Affidavit

State of Connecticut. New London County! City of New Britain September 27 th A.D. 1830.
To whom it may concern. Be it known that some years since, according to my best knowledge and belief, when I was a member of the Senate of the United States, Capt. John V. Billings of the town and County of Windham in this State, applied to me in regard to the obtaining of a pension from the United States on account of military services and a wound received by him therein, during the revolutionary war. Upon his statement of facts recommended to him to procure the evidence of his commanding officer who I understood from him resided in the State of New Jersey. He has since informed me that he proceeded to New Jersey, and found that said officer had removed into Wayne County in Pennsylvania, and had there deceased. Capt. Billings is a man of good cha- racter, and I cannot think is chargeable with dilatory conduct in regard to his

application for a pension -
James Lanman late a Senator in Congress. -
I am requested to add as a further fact, within my knowledge and observation, that for many years, prior to the year 1814, the said Billings sailed in command and as an officer, on board, of several vessels from this port, in the West India trade, and ever maintained a fair character for integrity. In what year he gave up a seafaring life I am unable to say. Nor do I know by what means since he has been enabled to support himself. He has evidently been for years past in a state of health, much less robust than formerly but, I can not, attest, that on this account, or for what reason he abandoned a seafaring life.
City of Norwich February 8 th 1831.
James Lanman
State of Connecticut New London County } ss. Norwich February 8 th day A.D. 1831
The above named James Lanman signer to the above and foregoing affidavits made solemn oath to the truth of the same before me and I do hereby certify that the said James Lanman is a credible witness John Baldwin Commissioner

July 8. 1842.
let from Geo. Billings. as proof of identity
J. L. Edwards Esq.
Conn. Pen. Station
Washington Conn
Hon J. H. Brockway H. R.

Washington July 7. 1842
Sir:
as you requested I transmit herewith a letter of John S Billings
J. L. Edwards Esq
Yours & John D. Sleeper

Payable semi-annually on the 4th of March and 4th of September, at Hartford
Connecticut by the Pres. M. S.
Branch Bank
No payment can be made on an original certificate, until the arrival of one or the other of the above dates after issuing the certificate.
Cancelled
Registered in Book L Vol. 3 a page 2 nd by
J. Biale Clerk.

WAR DEPARTMENT.
INVALID PENSION.
I Certify, That, in conformity with the Law of the United States, of the 24 th of May 1828. John S. Billings late a Musician — — of the Army of the Revolution is inscribed on the Pension List, Roll of the Connecticut — Agency, at the rate of Four — dollars per month, to commence on the Fourteenth day of February — one thousand eight hundred and thirty-one. —
Given at the War Office of the United States, this 20 th day of May — one thousand eight hundred and thirty-one.
J. N. Eaton Secretary of War.
Examined and countersigned, J. L. Edwards
Wendham. 20 y. 8 upwards Capt. Sylvanus Seelye - foot Col. Ephraim Martins Reg.

Sir
Before I had time to get your letter to John L. Billings, saying, that to increase the pension of an " Invalid pension " the evidence must be taken before a Court of Record , I have read the enclosed proceedings taken before the Court of Probate . Altho' a Court of Probate in Conn. is not invested with the power of fine imprisonment (except in particular cases) yet it keeps Records , and as you know the War Department, have decided that for the purpose of obtaining pensions a Connecticut Court of Probate is a Court of Record .
If this will not answer, I will send it back and comply strictly with the suggested rule . I hope it will do.
Yours &c.
A. T. Judson

Washington Dec r 6. 1835.
J. L. Edwards Esq
Com. of Pensions
Sir:
Will you favor me with the original papers, in the case of John S. Billings, invalid pensioner, Connecticut - so that I may draw up for him, his proper application for an increase of pension.
Yours &c
Andrew T. Jackson

Dec 30. Mrs. S. Billings A. W. James L. Belmore Foully Ornato Com. of Persons

Washington Dec. 28. 1886
Sir, I request you to state to me, for the information of the Committee on Pensions, the amount of pension which John S. Billings of Connecticut is entitled to receive & the time & reason of its allowance.
I am yours respectfully. G. P. Linton
J. L. Edwards Esq.

completed on the Jan 30, 1837.
Be at Jan 25 Thos S. Bellamy New York M c Millan J. Belknap J. L. Johnson, State U.S. Com. of Friends H. M.

Washington Jan. 23 d 1837.
Sir, I request you to communicate to me; for the information of the Committee on Pensions, the evidence upon which the name of John S. Billings was placed, on the invalid pension roll, in 1831, for a disability alleged to have been occasioned by a wound received, in the year 1776.
I am respectfully, Your obedt Servt.
G. Tomlinson
J. L. Edwards Esq.

July 6 1842.
John J. Billings Paris
July 5 1842
Mrs S. Billings
J. J. Billings Esq. Comm. Pend. wing H. J. Brockway P.P.O. Washington
at July 6 1842.

House of Representatives July 5. 1842
J. L. Edwards Esquire
Sir
Will you be kind enough to send me a certificate of pension according to the provisions of enclosed Bill in favor of John S. Billings for an increase
Yours Truly John D. Rockwell

John S. Billings Ins d roll Comt. Act April 14. 1842. increased to $8 per month from 30 June 1837.
Free
J. H. Brockway M c L.
J. L. Edwards Esq re
Comm. Pensions
Washington
Send Cab to Hon J. H. Brockway H. R.

Ho. of Reps July 21. 1842
Sir
Enclosed I send you John S. Billings certificate of service and request a new one conformable to the act passed this Session in his favor
with great respect
I am
J. L. Edwards Esq.
Yours &c John D. Brockway

Pension Office July 25. 1831
pen: to com: 14 Feb. 1831 $4 per mo: - act 24 May 1828
J. H. D. ...

Windham Conn t February 14 th 1831
Sir enclosed are the Papers of Capt John S. Billings with his application to be placed on the Pension list of the United States for a wound received in the Revolutionary war.
The Testimony in which was closed before me on the 14 th day of February 1831 - The sd Billings having been much out of health since his papers were (on his application in October last) returned to him from the War Department for certain defects in them is the reason that he has not before corrected and forwarded them to the Department. If his application and papers are now found to be correct - He requests you to give me an answer
Hon John H. Eaton Secretary of War
I am respectfully Yours John Baldwin Commissioner

M c S. Billings was a Fifer in the Army of Revolution wounded in left leg
the pension of 4- p m o allowed him 20 May 1831
application to Sec y of War for increase not allowed because evidence taken under commission from Judge of Probate.
Evidence again taken under Comm ee from a Judge of court of record while under exami- nation saw authorizing Sec y to increase pension. expired
till 8- instead of 4-
from June 1836

Willimantic June 9 th 1856
Dear J. Minot
Doc Sir Yours of the 3 rd inst is before me, requiring proof of the widowhood of Phebe Billings Also her identity with that of John D Billings and as being on the Connecticut agency as an invalid pensioner at the time of his death is herewith enclosed
I am further requested by Mrs Billings to enquire of you if there is any rule whereby she is entitled to receive a pension for the services rendered by her husband in the war of the Revolution, I understood her to say that she has never applied for a Pension since her husband's death, Respect Yours,
Sam Lee

State of Connecticut County of Windham, ss Windham on this 9 th day of June A.D. 1856; before me a Notary Public within and for the County and State aforesaid, personally appeared Jairus Littlefield aged 73 years a resident of Windham in the State of Connecticut who being duly sworn according to law depose and say that I was intimately ac- quainted with John S Billings deceas- ed of said Windham; Also with his wife Phebe Billings in the lifetime of her husband and since his death, that she still remains the widow of the identical John S Billings who was an invalid pensioner on the Connecticut agency at the time of his death Jairus Littlefield
The foregoing affidavit was sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year above written, and I certify that I know the affiant to be a credible person, and I further certify on my own personal knowledge that all the facts set forth in the foregoing affidavit are correct in every particular
Samuel S. Notary Public

To the Honorable the Senate and House of Representatives of the Congress of the United States of America:
The petition of John S. Billings of the town of Windham and State of Connecticut, humbly represents:
That he was a soldier of the revolution, and while in actual service, and engaged in the Battle on Long Island, on the 27 th . day of August 1776 when and where he received a wound from the enemy, by a Musket Ball passing through the left Ankle of your petitioner, fracturing the principal bone, and blood vessels of the left leg.
Your petitioner, even then an able bodied soldier with good health and constitution, but as old age approached Your petitioner feeling the effects of said wound to be lasting and decrepitude, and the pain and debility thereby occasioned became so severe, that on the 20 th . of May, 1831, he received a pension certificate from the Secretary of War, of four dollars per month, for and during his natural life.
Your petitioner is now 75 years old, and his aforesaid wound has now become exceedingly painful, and by it he is rendered very lame, and wholly unable

to perform any manual labor whatever.
Your petitioner was brought up a farmer, and in consequence of his wound, he used to sail a vessel, and get a good living and in that business, and while he was young, he could overcome his lameness & prosecute his business successfully, notwithstanding his lameness.
But since old age has overtaken him, he can no longer go to sea - and now he has no other means of sustaining himself, except by cultivating the land, which is wholly unable to do.
Your petitioner applied to the Secretary of War, during the last winter to have his pension increased and all his testimony, for that purpose was taken and forwarded to that department, and that evidence would have satisfied that department, that the present condition of

The petitioner therefore prays Your Honor, to take his case into consideration enjoin into the facts, and increase his pension to Ninety Six dollars a year or such other sum as Your Honor may deem just and reasonable And Your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.
Dated at Windham this 21 st day of
Nov. 1836.
John S. Billings
Luc M. White
M rs Williams

Nov. 1836.
We the subscribers, Select Men and Justices of the peace for the town of Windham certify that we know John S. Bellings, the petitioner, and the facts by him stated are true, and we hope his petition will be granted
Lucas M c Whorter Justice of the Peace John S. Ballantine Justice Peace Edwards Clarke Justice Peace Isaac Gilmore Justice Peace A. A. Walker Justice Peace
Benj m Gurney } Select Erastus Fitch } Men
James Littlefield Justice of the Peace

State of Connecticut Windham County
for Windham June 21. 1836
To Doctor Chester Hunt of Windham in S d Windham County and Doctor William Webb of S d Windham
Pursuant to an Act of Congress of the United States passed the 25 th April 1812 Entitled "An Act to revive and continue in force an act to provide for persons who were disabled by known wounds received in the Revolutionary War and for other purposes." You are hereby appointed and authorized to examine John S d Billings of S d Windham who is inscribed on the Pension list of the United States and is claimant for an increase of Pension conform- ably to the 5 th Section of the Act of the 10 th of April 1806 revived as aforesaid. And you are to report in writing and on oath or affirmation your opinion of the nature of his disability and in what degree it prevents him from obtaining subsistence by manual labour. And in your proceedings in the premises you are to be regulated and governed by said Act
Given under my hand & Seal at S d Windham this 21 st day of June A d 1836
Edwards Clarke Chief Judge of County Court for Windham County. Connecticut

Jermain Buelas Clerk of the County Court within and for the County of Windham in the State of Connecticut do hereby certify, That the Hon d Edwards Clarke who appointed Drs. Charles Hunt and William Webb Physicians, within named, is Chief Judge of said County Court, duly commissioned and qualified, That the within signature of his name is in his hand writing, and that full faith and credit ought to be given to his acts as such
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at Brooklyn in said County this 21 st day of June A D 1836
Jermain Buelas Clerk

Washington June 25.
Sir
The enclosed, is an application for an increase of invalid pension. Please send me the new certificate.
Yours &c: A. J. Lucas

2 nd Cong. } S. 104. 2. Sess. }
Petition of John S. Billings praying an increase of his pension.
1840 Dec. 22. Referred to the Com: on Pensions
1841 Dec. 15. Referred to the Com: on Pensions.
" " 28. Bill reported S. 104.
Mr. Pierce. Smith of Com.

26th Cong. 3 d Sess. } S. 117.
Petition of John S. Billings for an increase of pension,
1836. Dec. 15. referred to the Com. on Pensions Feb. 28. Mar. 1. Duck & L. Seane
1837. Dec. 14. Referred to Com. on Pensions. June 1. repd lisi. S. 349.
1838. Dec. 11 referred with motion of Mr. Tils to the Com. on Pensions.
1839 Jan. 2 d Bill reported S. 157
1839 Dec. 27. Referred to the Com. on Pensions.
1840. (reported) S. 117.

6 Connecticut
John S. Billings, petition to increase Revolutionary Pension
Dec 15.
W. L. C.
Newspaper
Save the certificates to the pension.

Dear Sir:
I have been much rejoiced in the receipt of this
Yours &c
L. T. Jackson

War Department Pension Office June 28, 1836
Sir,
The papers in the case of John S. Billings are herewith returned. The act which authorized this Department to augment the pension of a revolutionary officer or soldier, having expired by limitation, this Department has no power to increase Mr. Billings's stipend. The claim cannot of course be allowed.
I have the honor to be
Very respectfully
Your Obet. Servt.
J. L. Edwards
Hon. A. T. Judson House of Representatives

War Department Pension Office May 30, 1835
Sir,
The papers in the case of John S. Billings are herewith returned. The evidence taken under a commission from a Judge of a Probate Court in Connecticut, is not deemed sufficient under the acts of Congress, which require proof to be taken before a Judge of a Court of Record, or under a Commission from such a Judge. The rule of this Department which authorizes proof to be taken before a Probate Court, was adopted without any reference to the acts of Congress prescribing the rules of evidence.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, Your Most Servt J. L. Edwards
Hon. A. T. Hudson, House of Representatives.

Letters regarding John S. Billings Pension
War Department Pension Office May 21. 1836
Sir,
In reply to the enquiry contained in the enclosed letter I have to inform you that the Invalid Pension Laws do not permit evidence to be taken under a commission from a judge of Probate. A judge competent to take testimony under the laws, or to issue a commission for the purpose, must preside over, or be a member of a Court of Record: and those only are Courts of record within the contemplation of the acts of Congress, which possess one or other of the attributes defined by the Attorney General in his opinion given on the 9 th May 1820, to which I would respectfully refer you on page 25 of the Appendix to the Pension Laws.
I have the honor to be Very respectfully Your Obet. Servt. J. L. Edwards
Hon. A. T. Judson House of Representatives

APPLICATION FOR AN INCREASE OF PENSION.
Alma Mater IT is hereby certified that Alma Mater formerly a Musickian of Captain Sylvanus Sedgwick company, in the Col. Ephraim Regiment of Westmoreland Westmoreland who, it appears by the accompanying certificate,* was placed on the pension roll at the rate of four dollars per month, on account, as he states, of having received a † gun shot wound on the anterior part of his left ankle, passing directly through, and fracturing and lacerating the principal bone, and blood vessels of the leg. while in the line of his duty, and in the said service, on or about the  his day, the 27 day of August in the year 1876 at a place called Flat Bush, L. Island in the State or Territory of New York , is not only still disabled in consequence of the said injury, but, in my opinion, is entitled to four dollars more than he already receives as a pensioner, being disabled to a degree amounting to ‡ of a total disability.
Charles Brewster William Webb } Surgeons.
* The pension certificate issued from the War Office, which must be returned to the Commissioner of Pensions.
† Here give a particular description of the wound, injury, or disease, and specify in what manner it has affected the applicant so as to produce disability in the degree stated, and show its origin and progress.
‡ N. B.—The blank in the last line but one is to be filled up with the proportional "degree" of disability; for example—"three-fourths"—"one-half"—"one-third," &c. &c., or, "totally," as the case may be.
□ The magistrate who may administer the oaths to the Surgeons, must certify that they are reputable in their profession, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
□ If the claimant is within thirty miles of an Army Surgeon he must obtain his testimony.
□ 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 paper authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or small 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.
□ No claim to an increase of pension will be examined unless the proof be first presented to the Pension Agent where payment is made. He will forward the Surgeon's affidavit, pension certificate, &c., to the War Department, with a statement by him that he knows the Surgeons to be reputable in their profession, or believes on the information of others that they are so.
□ If the applicant was pensioned on account of a wound received previous to the late war, he should be examined by two Surgeons under a commission issued by a Judge of one of the United States Courts, in order to obtain an increase of his pension.

State of Connecticut Windham County ss Windham June 21. 1836
Personally appeared before me the subscribers, Doctors Chester Hunt & William Webb well known to me to be reputable in their professions, as Surgeons and made oath to the truth of the above and foregoing certificate by them subscribed Edwards Clarke Justice of the Peace
I, Amin Bolles Clerk of the County Court within and for the County of Windham in the State of Connecticut do hereby certify that Edwards Clarke Esq. who administered the oath above mentioned to Drs. Chester Hunt and William Webb, is duly enrolled as a Justice of the Peace in and for said Windham County, that the above signature of his name is in his hand writing and that full faith and credit ought to be given to his acts as such—
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at Brooklyn in said County this 21 st day June A.D. 1836. Amin Bolles Clerk

HAMPTON, CONN.
JAN 20 1910
U. S. Commissioner of Pensions, Washington, D. C.
Sir:-
Could you give me any information regarding the birth place or parentage of my great grandfather, John J. Billings. He was born Aug. 1, 1762, Place of birth unknown. In the latter part of May or first part of June 1776 he enlisted at Chatham, N. J. in the company of Capt. Sylvanus Sealy, which was attached to the regiment of Col. Ephraim Martin.
On Aug. 27 of the same year while in action with

the enemy 2 at Flatbush, L.I. he was wounded in the ankle and was unable to perform any further service during the term of his en- listment, 6 months.
In 1781 he left New Jersey and came to Connecticut and went on board a privateer commanded by Capt. Nicholas Fordick.
He was granted a pension about 1832, at which time he was residing at Windham, Conn.
Please send me any in- formation you may be able to give me with charges for same and I will remit payment.
Respectfully
A. B. Roberts
JAN 22 1910