Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 8359, Joseph Bennett, R.I.

SERVICE
R. J. L.
Bennett, Joseph Esther
NUMBER _____
N. 8359
B. L. U. 26044-160-55-
CONTENTS

21, 856
Massachusetts
Joseph Bennett
He was a private in the State of Mass he was a private in the Comp. commanded by Captain Knight of the Arty. — commanded by Col. Son on the R. Island for 18 Mts.
Inscribed on the Roll of Mass at the rate of 60 Dollars — Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 16 day of Aug. 1831 and to Fanny G. Hinckley Northampton
Arrears to the 4th of Mar '31 $ 120 Semi-ant. allowance ending 4 Sep '31 30
$150
{ Revolutionary Claim, } Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by P. Atkin Clerk, Book E Vol. 2 Page 8
76 Hampshire

N° 6001.
18
1811
17c

I Joseph Bennett of Belchertown in the County of Hampshire and Commonwealth of Massachusetts of lawful Age do testify and declare that I lived at situate in Rhode Island at the time the British came to Newport, that the whole company of Militia at situate was called out and Marched under Captain Wilber in the Month of December if I rightly recollect to Bristol where we were stationed for one month when we were dismissed. I do not recollect the Col o name, the Troops were under Maj Gen . West.
I further say that I was drafted in the Month of March following and served one Month under the same Cap t Wilber at Warwick in R d Island. I further say that I was out in the service Seven Seven Months as a drafted soldier and served under three different Captains viz Cap t Jonathan Night . Cap t Simeon Harrington if I rightly recollect the Christian name and Cap t Wilber aforesaid - was under Col. Waterman. Col o Low and Col. Brown; part of the above services were done as a substitute for the following persons viz James Stone & Hosea Bennett. I went several short tours for others but cannot recollect for whom or how long so as to testify to the same.
I further declare that I enlisted in June of the year 1778 (if I rightly recollect the year) for nine month and served under Cap t — Parker do not recollect his Christian Name and in the Regiment commanded by Col o Crary. Maj Gen . Sullivan commanded and Brig. Gen. Cornwall - was stationed at Boston, then at Limerick from thence we were taken onto the Island of Newport. We had a battle while on the Island which lasted all day. I was not in the battle, but in the Hospital (at a place called pepper squarh) sick. Our troops retreated from the Island and were stationed at Little Compton I should say about East of Newport where we remained until we were discharged on the sixteenth day of March.

I was Born in Situate in the State of Rhode Island & County of Providence. have no record of my Age and do not know how Old I am. I call myself seventy four years old. I never was on the pension roll of the Army of any state I never had any writs discharged I know of no other merits than the one proceeded, to prove the service

DECLARATION,
IN ORDER TO OBTAIN THE BENEFIT OF THE ACT OF CONGRESS OF THE 7TH OF JUNE, 1832.
STATE OF MASSACHUSETTS, } ss. COUNTY OF HAMPSHIRE. }
ON this fifteenth day of August  1832 personally appeared in open court, before Hon Lyman Kingsley Esq. the court of Probate for P. County now sitting, Joseph Bennett a resident of Belchertown in the County of Hampshire, and State of Massachusetts, aged 74 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, 1832. That he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers, and served as herein stated.
He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or an annuity, except the present, and he declares that his name is not on the pension roll of any agency in any State, or (if any,) only on that of the agency in the State of
Sworn to, and subscribed, the day and year aforesaid.
By me Samuel Kingsley Judge of Probate for P. County We, Justus Howard residing in the town of Belchertown and Colvin Bugbee residing in Belchertown hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with Joseph Bennett who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be 74 years of age; that he is reputed and believed, in the neighborhood where he resides, to have been a soldier of the revolution, and that we concur in that opinion.
Sworn, and subscribed, the day and year aforesaid.
Samuel Kingsley Judge of Probate And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the abovenamed applicant was a revolutionary soldier, and served as he states. And the Court further certifies, that it appears to them that Justus Howard Esq. who has signed the preceding certificate, and Colvin Bugbee residents in Belchertown and that who has also signed the same, is a resident in  signers to the above are a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
Samuel Kingsley Judge of Probate
I, Samuel F. Lyman an Registrar of the Court of Probate do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of Joseph Bennett for a pension.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, this fifteenth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty two
Samuel F. Lyman  Registrar Clerk.

Joseph Bennett
Massachusetts
No 6001
Print 18 Months
4-1600
Apr 27 1833
P. 358
S. Hinckley Esq. Northampton Mass.

BRIEF in the case of  Joseph Bennett of Wampshire County in the State of Massachusetts (Act 7th June, 1832.)
 1. Was the declaration made before a Court or a Judge? Court  2. If before a Judge, does it appear that the applicant is disabled by bodily infirmity?  3. How old is he? 74 Years  4. State his service, as directed in the form annexed. 
   Period. Duration of Service. Rank. Names of General and Field Officers under whom he served.   Years, Months, Days.     not stated In 17 — " — — 1 — — " — Private Gen. West, Sullivan Capt Willard   " " — enlisted — " — — 1 — — " — Private Capt Willard   " " Several times — " — — 7 — — " — Part of the time Substitute for Sgt Stone Cold Waterman, Low & Brown Capt Night, Harrington, Wilber   June 1778 Enlisted — " — — 9 — — " — Private First Connells Brigade Col Quincy's Regt Capt Parker's Co  
 5. In what battles was he engaged? None  6. Where did he reside when he entered the service? Littoral Rhode Island  7. Is his statement supported by living witnesses, by documentary proof, by traditional evidence, by incidental evidence, or by the rolls? Two Living Witnesses in Part & traditional  8. Are the papers defective as to form or authentication? and if so, in what respect? Defective on Separate Sheets of Paper 
I Certify that the foregoing statement and the answers agree with the evidence in the case above mentioned.
Chas Little Examining Clerk.

I Joseph Bennett of Belchertown in our County of Hampshire and Commonwealth of Massachusetts; for the purpose of amending my declaration in order to obtain a pen- sion, made August 15 th 1882, 74 yrs as on oath depose and say, that I served during the revolutionary war as a private soldier, in the whole, one year and six months as follows viz in the month of December 1776 I was drafted and served one month at Bristol in Rhode Island under Capt. Wilber, my Colonel name I do not remember. Maj. Gen. West commander. In March 1777 I was again drafted and served one month under the same Capt. Wilber at Warwick in Rhode Island. Between the first of April 1777 and last of December in the year 1778 I served seven other months, all at Warwick, in three dif- ferent companies under Captains Wilber Simson Harrington and Jonathan Knight My Colonels during the period of seven months were Col. Waterman, Col. Love and Col. Brown. About three of the seven months I was a substitute for James Stern and Hosea Bennett both of whom are deceased - the remainder of the time I was drafted. In 1778 in the month of June I enlisted under Capt. Parker for nine months and served the whole time, at Bristol, Tiverton and Newport in Rhode Island, Col. Coram and Gen. Sullivan

were my Officers At the time I made my application a great many applicants were attending court and I was so agitated that I did not then remember the several periods of my service so distinctly as I now do and have stated above his May 21 1833 Joseph X Bennett
Hampshire May 21 1833 Then personally appeared Joseph Bennett signer of the above, and made oath that the same is true, and I further certify that I am personally acquainted with B Bennett and believe him to be a man of truth and entitled to credit Myron L. Lord Justice of Peace
I Israel Wakefield of said Belchertown Minister of the Baptist Society in Town do, on oath, depose and say that I am personally acquainted with Joseph Bennett signer of the above, that I believe him to be seventy four years old, that he is respected and be- lieved in his neighborhood to have been a soldier of the revolution and that I concur in the opinion that he is esteemed a man of

unadulterated truth and veracity
Isabel Wakefield
Hampshire ss June 8 1833 Then hereon appeared Rev. Isabel Wakefield and made oaths that the above af- fidavit by him subscribed is true and I further certify that I am well acquainted with I. Wakefield and esteem him a man of strict veracity Myron Lawrence J. Peace
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Hampshire ss-
I, Solomon Stoddard Clerk of the Judicial Courts of the Commonwealth for the County of Hampshire do certify that Myron Lawrence Esquire whose signature is affixed to the fore- going Certificate was at the date thereof one of the Justices of the peace within and for said County, duly commissioned and acting under the authority of this Commonwealth, and that full faith and credit is and ought to be given to his acts and attestations done in that capacity, and that I am acquainted with the handwriting of the said Myron Lawrence and believe his signature to the foregoing Certificate to be genuine -
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the Court of Common Pleas for said Commonwealth, this eighteenth day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty three
S. Stoddard Clerk

3565 Massachusetts.
Esther Bennett. widow of Joseph Bennett who served in the Revolutiona-
ry war, as a private
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 60 Dollars 00
Cents per annum, to commence on the 3d February, 1853.
Certificate of Pension issued 2 d day of February 1854. and sent to
James M. Brooks. Springfield Mass.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 3, 1853, Page 41 Vol. a
Set to Hon: Mr. Dickinson.
Est: 10 3/4
Death date not on A.B. 246
Reg 3 m 58-6167

Esther Bennett, wid of Joseph Mason.
Act. 29 July 1848.
Set June 24/52
Mason Shaw. Belchertown Mass.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts } ss. Hampshire County }
On this seventeenth day of February eighteen hundred and fifty two, personally appeared before me Mason Shew a justice of the Peace in and for said County of Hampshire, Esther Bennett a resident of Belchertown in said County of Hampshire aged seventy seven years, who being first duly sworn according to law cloth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the provisions of the act of Congress of July 29 th 1848, entitled an "Act for the relief of certain surviving widows of Officers and Soldiers of the Revolutionary Army": Viz, That she is the widow of Joseph Bennett late of said Belchertown, who was a soldier in the Army of the Revolution, and that he was a pensioner under the act of June 7 th 1832 receiving sixty dollars per annum up to the time of his death. For proof of service reference thereto being had. She further declares that she was married to the said Joseph Bennett on the sixth day of April A.D. 1799: That her husband died on the nineteenth day of December A.D. 1838, That she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service, but the marriage took place previous to the second day of January eighteen hundred, viz at the time above mentioned. She further swears that she is now a widow, and never made an application before.
Esther Bennett
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year first above mentioned Before me, Mason Shew Justice of the Peace,

* Refers to this & several preceding records — E. C. D.
"April seventeenth, eighteen hundred, Joseph Bennett & Esther Green both of Spencer were married."
"The aforesaid *pairs* were joined in marriage at the times severally prefixed to their names by me.
Benjamin Drury Just. Peace"
I, Edward C. Dyer, Town Clerk of the town of Spencer, in the County of Worcester and State of Massachusetts hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy from the Record of Marriages in said town, in my possession, except the date, which is in fair, legible figures as follows viz - "April 17, 1800."
Spencer Mar. 9. 1853. Edward C. Dyer Town Clerk sworn to before me
James D. Dyer Justice of the Peace

I Perley Buxton of Belchertown in the County of Hampshire and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, aged sixty three years testify and say that I am the daughter of Joseph Bennett deceased by his first wife and the youngest but one of seven children - We were all living together with him when he married Esther Green and brought her home, and I continued to live with them until I was married, forty years ago last January, and that my father the said Joseph Bennett moved from Spencer to this town forty eight years ago the first day of May last, where he continued to live till his death Decr 19 th 1833,
And I further testify and say that the record hereunto annexed of his, said Joseph Bennett marriage to Esther Green, now his widow was always in our family Bible and that this entry or record "Joseph and Esther Bennett was married April 3 rd 1799 in Spencer Mass by Rev Drury" was made therein, more than forty years ago, (before I was married) by my Uncle Timothy Bennett who was then living with us, by the request of my father, who could not write, and that I was present and saw said record or entry made of the said marriage,
And I further testify and say, that at the request of Mason Shaw, I took this record from said Bible which was annexed to and a part of the same, in his presence & to be by him annexed to this my deposition, and further the Deponent sayeth not,
Perley Buxton

Commonwealth of Massachusetts } Ss, August 6 th 1852. Hampshire County Sworn to and subscribed,
Before me, Nelson Shaw Justice of the Peace
I certify, that the within named Perly Buxton, at my request and in my presence, took from an old Bible that appeared to have been much used, in which it was confined by glue or paste, the record herunto annexed,
Nelson Shaw Justice of the Peace
I certify that the above named Perly Buxton is personally known to me, and that full credit should be given to the truth of her testimony.
Nelson Shaw Justice of the Peace

COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS.
HAMPSHIRE SS.
I, Samuel Wells, Clerk of the Judicial Courts of the Commonwealth, for the County of Hampshire, do certify, that Nathan Shaw Esquire, whose signature is affixed to the certificate on the paper hereto annexed, was, at the date thereof, one of the Justices of the Peace, within and for said County, duly commissioned, and acting under the authority of this Commonwealth; and that full faith and credit is, and ought to be given, to his acts and attestations, done in that capacity; and that I am acquainted with the hand-writing of the said Nathan Shaw and believe his signature to said certificate is genuine.
In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the Supreme Judicial Court, for said Commonwealth, this Twenty third day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty two.
Samuel Wells Clerk.

Mary Bennett Was, born June the 13, 1800
Welcom Bennett Was, born April the 22, 1802
Jefferson Bennett Was, born June the 6, 1804
Luisa Bennett Was, born September the 23, 1806
Abilene Bennett Was, born March the 25, 1809
Lucia Bennett Died April the 13, 1811
Louisa Bennett Was, born December the 31, 1811
Salley M Bennett Was, born July the 20, 1814
Samuel Green Bennett born December the 1, 1816
Joseph Bennett Was, born Oct the 13, 1819

St. to Hartford, May 10/55 " " " " Dec 20/55
Vol B1-92.00
6167- Act March 3-1855 March 21/55
Ether Bennett widow of Joseph Bennett
Capt. { R. I. Col. { Mil.
Ent. { Revolut Dis. { War.
Pensioner
Ms. B. 1. 6 v. 1 p. 53-3568
No. Boston Do: 160 A. May 15/56 B. 1. 6 v. 1 p. 53
51
Sarah W. Cooks Springfield Mass.

Esther Bennett
1 #
1667

State of Massachusetts } Norfolk County } ss.
On this seventeenth day of March A.D. one thousand eight hundred & fifty five, personally appeared before me, a justice of the peace within & for the County & State aforesaid Esther Bennett aged Eighty years, a resident of Springfield in the County of Norfolk of Massachusetts, who being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the widow of Joseph Bennett, deceased, who was a private in the Army of the Revolution & served as is stated in his declaration & on account of such service was placed on the Pension Roll of the United States under the act of Congress, passed June 7. 1832 & received a Certificate accordingly, for fifty dollars per annum & that this service was performed in the Militia or troops of the State of Rhode Island, as she always understood, but she is unable to state the time or amount of service rendered & would refer to her said husband's declaration on file in the Pension Department at Washington.
She further states that she was married to the said Joseph Bennett in Springfield in the County of Norfolk & State aforesaid on the 17 th day of April A.D. 1800 by Rev. Deury Ch. Justice of the Peace & that she is now a widow.
I hereby certify that the within is a true copy of the original before signing James Merrill Clerk

And she further states that she is a Pensioner of the United States on account of her said husband's services in the Revolutionary War & was inscribed on the Pension Roll under the Act of Congress of February 3 d 1833 at the rate of Sixty Dollars per annum & said certificate accordingly, & now begs leave to refer to her Declaration & the papers & evidence accompanying the same & produced before the Court here when her application was received & examined & on which a pension was granted to her, to which Declaration & evidence of marriage, & all other evidence produced she now respectfully would refer.
She makes this Declaration for the purpose of obtaining the bounty bond to which she may be entitled under the "Act approved March 3 d 1835." Samuel Root Esq of Springfield is my agent to receive the money for me. Esther D. Root
We Jeremiah M c auliffe and Charles Underwood residents of Springfield in the County of Hampden & State of Massachusetts upon our oaths declare that the foregoing Declaration was signed & acknowledged by Esther D. Root in our presence, and that we believe, from the appearance & statements of the applicant that she is the identical person she represents herself to be.
Jeremiah M c auliffe.
Charles Underwood

The foregoing declaration & affidavit were sworn to & subscribed before me on the day & year above written; and I certify that I know the affiant to be a credible person; that the claimant is the person who represents himself to be, & that I have no interest in this claim.
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
HAMPDEN, ss.
I, George B. Morris, Clerk of the Judicial Courts of the Common- wealth, for the County of Hampden, do certify, that James W. Brooks Esquire, whose signature is affixed to the certificate on the paper hereto annexed, was, at the date thereof, one of the Justices of the Peace, within and for said County, duly commissioned, and acting under the authority of this Commonwealth; and that full faith and credit is, and ought to be given, to his acts and attestations, done in that capacity; and that I am acquainted with the hand-writing of the said Brooks and believe his signature to said certificate is genuine: also that the instrument hereto annexed, purports to be duly executed and acknowledged, according to the laws of this Commonwealth, for the purposes therein expressed.
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the Court of Common Pleas, for said Commonwealth, this Nineteenth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty five
Geo. B. Morris Clerk.
... ...

The foregoing declaration & affidavit were sworn to & subscribed before me on the day & year above written; and I certify that I know the affiants to be credible persons; that the claimant is the person who represents herself to be, & that I have no interest in this claim.
Ann M. Roddy Justice of the Peace

December 4, 1934.
Mrs. Harold F. Belden 56 Edendale Street East Springfield, Massachusetts.
BA-J/ILL Qu Joseph Bennett W. 8359
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War record of Joseph Bennett, a pensioner.
The data given herein regarding Joseph Bennett are found in the papers on file in pension claim, W. 8359, based upon his service in that war.
Joseph Bennett was born in Scituate, Providence County, Rhode Island; the day of his birth, and names of his parents are not shown.
While a resident of Scituate, Rhode Island, he belonged to Captain Samuel Wilbur's Rhode Island company, served one month in December 1776, at Bristol, and in March, following, one month at Warwick; from April 1777 until the spring of 1778, he served as private on various tours, amounting in all to about seven months, under Captains Jonathan Knight, Wilbur and Simeon Harrington, Colonels Low, Waterman and Brown; a part of this service was rendered as substitute for one Hosea Bennett; no relationship to Joseph Bennett was stated. He enlisted in June 1778, and served nine months as private in Captain Parker's company, Colonel Crary's Rhode Island regiment.
The soldier moved from Rhode Island to Spencer, Worcester County, Massachusetts, (the date not shown), thence about the year 1804, to Belchertown, Hampshire County, Massachusetts.
He was allowed pension on his application executed August 15, 1832, at which time he resided in Belchertown, Massachusetts. He gave

his age then as seventy-four years.
Joseph Bennett died December 19, 1838, in Belchertown, Massachusetts.
This is false on A. B. also.
When Joseph Bennett moved to Spencer, Massachusetts, he was accompanied by his family. It is shown that he had seven children by his first wife, and that she died in said Spencer; her name, date of marriage and date of death are not given.
Joseph Bennett married the second time, April 3, 1779, or April 17, 1800, in Spencer, Massachusetts, Miss Esther Green, also of Spencer; the date of her birth and names of her parents are not shown. (April 3, 1779, date recorded by the family-Apr. 17, 1800, date shown in copy of town records of Spencer).
Esther Bennett, soldier's widow, was allowed pension on her application executed February 17, 1852, at which time she resided in Belchertown, Massachusetts; she was then aged seventy-seven years. In 1854, she was living with her son, Joseph Bennett, in Springfield, Hampden County, Massachusetts.
In August 1852, Perley Buxton, the soldier's daughter, was a resident of Belchertown, Massachusetts, aged sixty-three years. She stated then that she was "the youngest but one of seven children", all of whom lived with their father in Spencer when he married the second time and came home with his wife, Esther; further, that she lived at home until she married "forty years ago last January", name of her husband not given. Her uncle, Timothy Bennett, lived with them in Spencer when her father remarried. She did not state the names of these other children.
The names and births of the children of Joseph Bennett and his wife, Esther, are shown as follows (four sons and five daughters):
Mary born June 13, 1800 Welcome (son) " April 22, 1802 Jefferson " June 6, 1804 Louisa " September 23, 1806, died April 13 -?. Abilene " March 25, 1809.

(Children, continued)
Louisa born December 31, 1811. Sally M. " July 20, 1814. Samuel Green " December 1, 1816. Joseph " October 13, 1819.
In 1853, the son, Samuel G. Bennett, was a resident of Belcher- town, Massachusetts. At that time one Emma Bennett witnessed the signature of Esther Bennett, the widow; no relationship to the family was stated.
Very truly yours,
A. D. HILLER, Executive Assistant to the Administrator.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
WORCESTER COUNTY, ss.
I, William A. Smith Assistant Clerk of the Judicial Courts .
for the County and Commonwealth aforesaid, do hereby certify, that James Draper on the ninth day of March 1853. was and still is.
a Justice of the Peace, in and for said County, duly commissioned and qualified, and authorized by the laws of this Commonwealth, to take the acknowledgement of deeds, and administer oaths, and that his signature to the certificate of oath of Edward C. Dyer .
hereunto annexed is genuine
Given under my hand, and the seal of said day of March hundred and fifty-three.
Conway , this twelfth in the year of our Lord one thousand eight
Wm A. Smith Assistant Clerk

"Esther Green's book given her by Elizabeth Wolsey of New York."
"Joseph and Esther Bennett was married April 6 th , 1799, in Spencer Mass. by Esq r . Druvery,"
I Pearley Buxton of Belchertown in the County of Hampshire and Commonwealth of Massachusetts aged sixty three years testify and say that the above is a true transcript from my Mother's family bible, respecting her marriage, excepting the record of the births of her nine children viz four sons and five daughters, and the death of one of them. I further testify and say that my mother in law, the said Esther Bennett's maiden name was Esther Green, before she married my father the said Joseph Bennett. That he then lived in Spencer in the County of Worcester in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and that I lived with them until I was married at the age of twenty three years. And I further testify and say that my father the said Joseph Bennett died December 19 th 1838, and that said Esther Bennett still remains his widow.
Attest Mason Shaw. her Pearley X Buxton mark
Commonwealth of Massachusetts?
Hampshire County ss. Feb y 17 th 1852.
Then the above named Pearley Buxton personally appeared and made oath to the truth of the above deposition by her subscribed Before me Mason Shaw Justice of the Peace.

I certify, that full credit should be given to the truth of said Percy Buxton's deposition,
Mason Shaw Justice of the Peace

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston, March 1 st 1852
W hereby C ertify, That at the date of the annexed attestation Mason Shaw was a justice of the Peace for the County of Hampshire,
in the said Commonwealth, duly commissioned and qualified; and that to his acts and attestations, as such, full faith and credit are and ought to be given, in and out of Court.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the Commonwealth, the date above written.
Maria Walker Secretary of the Commonwealth.

1.165
Aug 28/52
Esther Bennett, Widow of Joseph, Mass.
July 29 th 1848.
Mason Shaw, Belchertown, Mass.
Esther Bennett

Commonwealth of Massachusetts } ss. Hampshire County }
On this tenth day of August A.D. 1852 Personally appeared before the Judge of Probate of Wills, - Granting Administration on Intestate Estates - Appointing Guardians &c. of the County of Hampshire aforesaid Esther Bennett of the town of Belchertown in said County aged seventy seven years, who being duly sworn according to Law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the provisions of the act of Congress of July 29 th A.D. 1848 entitled "An act for the relief of certain surviving widows of Officers and Soldiers of the Revolutionary Army" - viz. That she is the widow of Joseph Bennett late of said Belchertown, deceased, a private in the Army of the Revolution; a pensioner under the act of June 7 th 1832, and drew a pension of sixty dollars per annum until the time of his death. She further declares that she was married to the said Joseph Bennett in the month of April A.D. 1799 - That her husband died on the 19 th day of December A.D. 1838. That she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service, but the marriage took place previous to the second day of January Eighteen hundred, viz. at the time above mentioned, She further swears that she is now his widow, and never made an application, other than this, before. Esther Bennett Hampshire ss. August 10, 1852. Submitted & sworn to Before me Nathan Parker Judge of Probate -

I, Samuel F. Lyman Register of said Court of Probate do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings before said Court in the matter of the application of said Ethel Bennett for a pension
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and the seal of said Court this tenth day of August A.D. 1852
Sam l F. Lyman Reg d of Probate

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston.
December 13, 1855.
I Hereby Certify , That from an examination of the Books and Documents relating to Military Services in the War of the Revolution, which remain in this Department, it appears that the name of Joseph Bennett is borne on pay roll of Capt. Isaac Wood's Comp. Col. Thomas Gaspere's Regt. from July 20 to Aug 27, 1777, 1 month 6 days as private, from Middleborough.
Also on pay roll of Capt. Job Prince Comp. Col. Theophilus Cotton's Regt. for the month of Oct. 1777, 30 days as private. Roll dated Middleboro'.
Also on pay roll of Capt. Henry Pierce Comp. Col. Theophilus Cotton's Regt. from March 4 to March 31, 1781. 26 days, as private.
Also on the following viz. Middleborough July 15, 1781. Received of Israel Wood head of Class No. 13 the sum of twenty five pounds ten shillings for my service six mos. in the Continental Army agreeable to a resolve of the General Court of the 16 of June. A day received by me.
Joseph Bennett.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the Commonwealth, the date above written.
Y. M. Wright Secretary of the Commonwealth.

Her memory is poor & she is not able to state with great accuracy the particular place where he enlisted or entered the service, but will remember often hearing him say that he lived in Plymouth, Norfolk, & District Co. Ms. I believe he several times entered the service from the towns in these counties.
She has been to refer to her declaration for bounty land on file in Pension Department for further evidence of her age & marriage & also to her declaration for a Pension which she now receives, under the last acts of Congress granting Pensions to Widows, &c. passed about the year 1852-53. The particular acts of the passage of such acts being not now remembered -
Witness the said Estelle Bennett by her attorney Sam M. Clark, the eighth day of December 1875 by the said Estelle Bennett Signed by the said Sam M. Clark in my presence Hosea W. Slayton Probate

Feb. 26, 1896.
to Mary M. Grannis Boston, Mass.
July 16-1902 Mary E. Walnatt Springfield N.Y.
1918, Sept. 23. History to Mrs. L. E. Hamley Fr.
1934- Dec. 4- Check to Mrs. Harold Belden. ILL.
Rey WIDOW, &c.
File No. 8359
Esther Bennett
Wid
Joseph Bennett
Print Rev War
Act: Febry 3 d  1853
Index:—Vol. A , Page 30
[Arrangement of 1870.]
Mr. Kis Mr.
Mrs.

[Stylized signature]
see Let. to Dr. S. Noyes. Springfield. Mass. May 24 th 1853.
"Boston."

March 10/52
App d of Esther Bennett widow of Joseph
Mason Shaw Blethen town Mass.
Esther
Joseph
J
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR. Pension Office, Official Supply
Com

6167
Esther Bennett
Wic
Joseph
Mr. H.
Boyton
J. Minett
Commissariat of Prisoners
Washington St.
FREE

No 1112 Esther Bennett widow of Joseph - Mass: Let Mason Shaw June 24 th 1852 July Act 29 th 1848
483.
Esther Bennett, Widow of Joseph, Mass.
Let to P. M. at Spencer May 16/53 " " W. G. Hoopes May 24/53 " " S. G. Bennett Oct. 28/53 " " Sam l W. Crook Nov. 30/53
Act Feb 3 rd 1853.

1.165
Esther Bennett widow of Jos. Mass
Marr Shaw Dec 31 1832
Ad 29 July 1848

1165. Augt 28/32
Deed of Esther Bennett wid: of Jos.
Maso.
Act 29 th July 1848.
Mason Shaw
Belchertown
Maso.
James E. Heath Esquire Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

Belchertown Feb 18 th 1852
James S. Heath Esq r Commissioner of Pensions,
Sir,
Herewith are enclosed the declaration of Esther Bennett the widow of Joseph Bennett Deceased, who was a pensioner of the United States, and the deposition of Peabody Buxton, as to the record of her marriage to said Joseph Bennett taken from their family Bible. The original record (made at the time of their marriage as appears from the appearance of the writing) it would be difficult to send, except with the Bible.
I have taken the declaration before myself, as I have done in one other instance, Sir, that of Jerusha Hannum before a justice of the Peace, instead of the judge of Probate. The oath before me is as obligatory as the other. The records are the same.
The certificate for her pension, you will please to forward to me at Belchertown.
Very respectfully
your Obed. Servt
Mason Shaw

Springfield Mass Mar. 22 o 1853
J.E. Heath Esq Comm t of Pensions
Dear Sir
On the 14 th of this month I enclosed to you, the declaration of Mrs Joseph Bennett of Belchertown, and a certificate of her marriage, with vouchers. — I understand that Mr Shaw of Belchertown is prosecuting the same case, and at the request of Mrs. Bennett, I wish you to return to me the papers sent you as above.
Very respectfully
H.S. Noyes.

Springfield Mass. Mar. 24 th 1853
J. E. Heath Esq Comm r of Pensions Orfin
I enclose the declaration of Mrs. Joseph Bennett of Belchertown in this state. Widow of Joseph Bennett a pensioner heretofore, with a certificate of her marriage, properly authenticated - She is unable to furnish the Pension Certificate of her late husband as it was taken by the person who made the last payment subsequent to Mr Bennett's death. Please to forward a certificate for her to me, as also any money which may be her due.
Very truly Yours
H. S. Noyes. at the Savings Bank.

Belcherstown Oct. 27 th 1855 To the Commissioner of Pensions.
Washington Sir.
I am the son of Esther Bennett her lawful attorney and I employed Mason Shaw acting as an agent, to get a pension for the said Esther Bennett one year ago last Feb and have not received any return other than there was no person of the name of Joseph Bennett from Mass or received the amount mentioned by her or did at the time stated in her declaration.
I would like to know what has been done with those declarations of my mother and forwarded by the said Mason Shaw to the Pension office.
I was directly informed that the Clerk of the Town of Spencer stated that the town records for several years before and after the year 1800 was not made up entered from any original returns, whatever all such records were lost or destroyed and that the records such as are to be found were made up from recollection, the record in the family family file was therefore resorted to and relied upon as the true record of her marriage to Joseph Bennett by Esquire Drury who

married then he had become intemperate and was finally maintained by the s d town I would refer you to the deposition of Berley Buxton to which said family record is annexed. we claim that she is intitled to a pension under the act passed in 1858 and would like to know what further proof would be satisfactory
I would wish to know if there has been a pension granted to Joseph Bennett since Dec 13 th 1858 I would further wish to know if there has been any application for a pension for wd Esther Bennett by any one except Mason Shaw Esquire
Samuel G Bennett
Please direct an answer to Palmer Mass

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
HAMPDEN, ss.
Geo. B. Morris
I, RICHARD BLISS , Clerk of the Judicial Courts of the Commonwealth, for the County of Hampden, do certify, that James W. Crooks Esquire, whose signature is affixed to the certificate on the paper hereto annexed, was at the date thereof, one of the Justices of the Peace, within and for said County, duly commissioned, and acting under the authority of this Commonwealth; and that full faith and credit are and ought to be given to his acts and attestations done in that capacity; and that I am acquainted with the hand-writing of the said James W. Crooks and believe his signature to said certificate is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the Court of Common Pleas for said Commonwealth, this eighteenth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty four .
Geo. B. Morris Clerk.

State of Massachusetts } County of Hampshire } ss.
On this Eighteenth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred fifty four personally appeared before the Honorable Oliver D. Morris Esq. in Judge of the Court of Probate in and for the County of Hampshire & State of said Esther Dennett a resident of Springfield in the County of Hampshire & State of said aged Eighty years & about four months who first being duly sworn according to law, with an oath made the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress passed on the 3 d February, A.D. 1833. granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary War; - that she is the widow of Joseph Dennett who was a private in the War of the Revolution; - that he served in the militia or troops of the State of Rhode Island in which State he then lived & as she then did not believe he was living or in the neighboring town of Scituate Mr.; -

She further declares that she was married to the said Joseph Bennett on the 17 th day of April A.D. 1800 -; that her husband & family removed from Spencer in the county of Worcester to the town of Belchertown in the county of Hampshire about the year 1806, where they lived till his death; that her husband, the said Joseph Bennett died at said Belchertown on the 19 th day of December A.D. 1838, aged about 80 years; that she was married to the said Joseph Bennett at the said town of Spencer by Benjamin Denny Esq. a Justice of the Peace & that she was not married prior to the second of January, eighteen hundred but at the time above stated.
She further declares that she is now a widow; and that her said husband received a pension from the United States, for about six years prior to his death, on account of his services in the War of the Revolution & that she believes his pension certificate has been surrendered.
Witness my hand Emma Bennett Her mark

Hampden Jan y 10 th 1854 subscribed and sworn to before me, and I do certify that the said Esther Brunt Aseneth by reason of age and bodily infirmity is una- ble to attend the court, and that I have no interest in the result of this application, and I further certify that in my judgment the facts stated in the foregoing application declaration and affi- davit whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the court of Probate for the county of Hampshire to be affixed the day and year above written Now B r Morris Judge of Court
witness
W m Smith Registrar of Probate

I Ed. C. Dyer of Spencer in the County of Worcester & State of Massachusetts of lawful age do hereby certify that by virtue of my office of Town Clerk of Spencer I have in my possession all the public records of said Town; that among the books of records are those of Births, deaths marriages & publications of the intentions of marriages according to the laws of said State; that on the record books of marriages & the publication of intentions of marriages & the record of births are the following to wit; -
" Mr Joseph Bennett " " and Miss Esther Green, both " " of Spencer were published " " March 22 d 1800 "
" April 17. 1800. Joseph Bennett " " & Esther Green both of Spencer " " were married. "
" " Melvina Bennett son of " " Joseph Bennett & Esther his wife, " " was born April 22 d . 1802. "

I Edw. C. Dyer above named, do hereby certify that I hold the office of Town Clerk of the town of Spencerville in the County of Worcester & State of Maine & that the above are true extracts & exact copies from the record books of Marriages, Publications of the intentions of marriages & of births, which record books are in my custody & keeping; -
And I further certify, that the said Joseph Bennett came to the said town of Spencerville from the State of Rhode Island with his family & here his first wife died & he was married to his second wife now his widow - in or about the year 1806 he removed to Deliberton in the County of Hampshire where he died about 15 years ago - & at the time of his decease was a Revolutionary pensioner of the United States.
Edward C. Dyer

Commonwealth of Massachusetts Hampden County - ss.
On this 17 th day of January A.D. 1854 Personally appeared before me the subscribed one of the Justices of the Peace in & for said County, Edward C. Dyer, to me well known as the town Clerk of the said Town of Springfield & made oath in due form of law to the truth of the foregoing affidavit by him submitted before me. And I further certify that the said Edward C. Dyer is a credible person & his statement entitled to full credit.
James M. Knowles Justice of the Peace

I Joseph Bennett of Springfield in the County of Hampden State of Massachusetts of Counsel age depose & say, that Joseph Bennett the late of Belchertown in the County of Hampden State of Mass. a Revolutionary pensioner, died at said Belchertown December 19 th 1838; - that the said Joseph Bennett was my Father & that I was present at his death & burial; - that my mother the widow of said Joseph is still living & resides with me in said Springfield; - that I will remember my Father was a pensioner on account of services in the War of the Revolution & that he drew pensions for a few years before his death & that I have often seen his pension Certificate which I understood was returned to Boston that my mother might obtain the balance of pension due Mrs. Esther Bennett his widow, and mother has her home with me & has made application for a pension. Joseph Bennett

Commonwealth of Massachusetts } ss Hampshire County - }
Springfield Jan'y 18 th 1854 -
Where Joseph Bennett submitted I made oath to the foregoing affidavit before me - and I certify that the said affidavit is well known to me & his statement entitled to full credit.
John W. Brooks Justice of the Peace

I William Bridgman of Springfield in the County of Hampshire & State of Massachusetts Physician, depose & say that I was well acquainted with the late Joseph Bennett of Delehantown in the County of Hampshire where I was born & resided till the year 1835, when I removed to said Springfield & where I have continued my practice as a Physician. I was the family Physician of the said Bennett for several years & knew the family very well & often attended upon the said Bennett & his wife & children in sickness.
Mr Bennett died two or three years after I left Delehantown & was for the last few years of his life a pensioner on account of his services in the War of the Revolution. This I learnt from his neighbors & townsmen who knew the fact of his being a pensioner. I always understood that he removed to Delehantown from the town of Spencer in the County of Worcester. I was young when his family came to Delehantown but was well acquainted with them while I lived there.

I am well acquainted with Welcome Bennett the oldest son who was a boy when the family came into Belchertown & am also acquainted with many of the younger children who were born in that town
Mrs. Bennett, the widow of said Joseph has lately removed to my own neighborhood & lives with one of her sons but a mile or two from me.
I further depose & say that the said widow, Mrs. Esther Bennett, is the identical person who now makes application for a pension, on account of the services of her said husband, the said Joseph Bennett, in the Revolutionary War.
William Bridgman
Commonwealth of Massachusetts } ss. Hampden County } ss.
On this 18 th day of January A.D. 1834 personally appeared William Bridgman & subscribed & made oath in due form of law to the above affidavit before me one of the Justices of the Peace for said County And I certify the said Justice William Bridgman is well known to me, that he is a person of good credit & great respectability & his statement entitled to full credit.
Arthur M. Groves Justice of the Peace

Springfield Mr. Dec. 12, 1883
Sir
Some months ago I received notice that a record was signed in the case of Mrs. Esther Bennett, as to the pension of Joseph Bennett her late husband. The family of Mr. Bennett, have always said & believe that he was entitled to a full pension; but his own money being paid when he first went before the Court, he was allowed what appeared to be paid when his declaration was sent to the Department. His widow since the same pension had she now asks for bounty bond, to which it would seem she is entitled & from the evidence herewith transmitted, we hope a satisfactory result -
Yours obedt. Servt Very Respectfully
James M. Marsh J. H.
Hon. J. Minott Commissioner of Pensions

Springfield March 19. 1855
Sir.
I beg leave to send you enclosed the Calumny of Mrs. Estlin Burnett for County Lord. I have no special form for application by Revolutionary Pension, but being conversant with Mrs. Burnett's case for a Pension under the law of 1833, am induced to believe the enclosed declaration is correct.
If I am however mistaken, may ask for a copy of such regulations, if they differ from those under the act of March 3. 1855.
Mrs. Burnett desires the amount sent to me
Very respectfully Your Obedt Servt
James M. Washburne
Hon. J. P. Wolseley Commissioner of Pensions

Brief in the case of Esther Bennett, widow of Joseph. Hampden County and State of Mass. act 3 d Feby: 1853,
Claim, ("original," or "for increase." )
Proof exhibited, (if original.)
Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
Husband was a pensioner under the act of 7 th June, 1832.
Second evidence of Marriage
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
James W. Crooks, Esq., Springfield, Mass. Name and residence of Agent
S. H. Bryant Examining Clerk.

This date and date of death pertain to Joseph Bennett CH 21055-  *63.08 - Per annum. Pen. cl - S. 29001 -

Mr Randall

Pension Office
Dec 27 1832
Is there a Joseph Bennett, upon your Massachusetts Roll, who received under the Act of June 7 1832, $60 per annum? Also please state to what time he was paid.
J. Friplett
J. S. Gallagher Esq Be Auditor
Died 28 th January 1848, and paid to the 28 th January 1848 the day of his death
B. L. Bogan
N. B. — No Joseph Bennett at p. 60. He was on Mass. Roll.
25/13.

Pension Office
Dec 23 1882
Mass Roll act June 7 1832 $63.08 per an
Joseph Bennett pri To what time paid? J. Triplett
J. R. Gallaher for 3 Auditor
Died 28 th January 1848, Paid to his death,
B. J. B.
W. H. Soyars
N. B. — No Joseph Bennett at p. 100. per an on Mass. Roll. 216.

Esther Bennett
Rev. J. P. Malley Commission of Purvis Washington D.C.

19 dec 54
Pension Office, 23 d May, 1854,
Sir: Please Certify the time to which the within named pension was paid, or the date of his death, Very Respectfully,
J. G. Cole For the Commissioner,
Joseph Bennet, Act 1832 $60 per annum, died 19 Dec r 1835. paid —
F. Barth Auditor
Francis Root, Esq. Then Auditor Treas y }

Springfield Jan'y 18. 1874
Sir
I have the declaration of the probate of Mr. Luther Bennett, for a pension. In the same case I sent you a full power of attorney to prosecute his claims & send an answer for the said power as filed on file.
The widow I suppose is full conclusion & I do not anticipate any more delay than may be necessary to make the examination.
Mr. Bennett informs me that some of his children have taken an interest in the case & have spoken to some who have agencies in obtaining pensions; but she does not now acknowledge any other agent but myself in prosecuting the claims which you will please find in power sent to you a few weeks since.
Very respectfully yours John D. Sleeper Hannibal Mo. 1874
Hon. J. P. Morris Commr. of Pensions

Springfield Nov. 26. 1833
Sir -
I am authorized by Mrs. Esther Barnett widow of Joseph Barnett a Revolutionary pensioner, to present her claim for a pension, on account of the services of her late husband in the War of the Revolution; and enclose her Power of Attorney in that behalf. Mrs. Barnett informs me that some other pension have heretofore been engaged or allowed by her a few years ago. Joseph Barnett died about 15 years ago in Belchertown, Hampshire Co. Massachusetts & at her marriage with him no subsequent to 1800. She had no claim for a pension prior to the 3 d February 1833.
Mrs. Barnett informs me that several years ago, a Mr. Shaw undertook to obtain a pension for her but did not succeed; and she supposes that her application was sent to the Pension office, but does not know how the matter stands. If such is the fact & there is evidence of marriage &c. already furnished she need not again prove widow.

However, my purpose now is to request that the enclosed Power of Attorney may be filed in the case & if no declaration has been furnished I will obtain such as may be required, if it exists, & forward the necessary papers, if in my power. I have no doubt of the justice of the claim having been long well acquainted with the family, most of whom now reside in this neighborhood.
I would respectfully ask an answer to the enclosed if any pro- ceedings are now pending in the behalf for a pension.
I am very respectfully you abt. Genl.
Sam M. Wood
Hon. L. P. Wood Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

Know all Men by these Presents,
That I, Esther Bennett of Springfield in the County of Hampden in the State of Massachusetts Widow of Joseph Bennett deceased, and formerly Widow of  formerly residing in Belchertown in the County of Hampshire - Q State of Mass 2 a Revolutionary Pension
who served in the Revolutionary War, do hereby constitute and appoint, with power of substitution, James M. Cook , of Springfield in said County of Hampden my true and lawful Attorney irrevocable for me, and in my name and stead to prosecute my claims for a pension, and for all arrears and increase of pension, as also for any and all bounty lands, which said pensions and lands are due me, on account of the said services of the said Joseph Bennett and to prosecute such claims before the Government of the United States, or the proper officer or officers thereof, and to receive from such Government or officer, all such sums of money, certificates, warrants, or evidences of debt or value that may be issued in my name and allowed me, on account of the said service,
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
HAMPDEN, ss. J. G. Morris
I, RICHARD BLISS , Clerk of the Judicial Courts of the Commonwealth, for the County of Hampden, do certify, that Reuben Palmer Esquire, whose signature is affixed to the certificate on the paper hereto annexed, was at the date thereof, one of the Justices of the Peace, within and for said County, duly commissioned, and acting under the authority of this Commonwealth; and that full faith and credit are and ought to be given to his acts and attestations done in that capacity; and that I am acquainted with the hand-writing of the said Reuben Palmer and believe his signature to said certificate is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the Court of Common Pleas for said Commonwealth, this Twenty fifth day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty three
J. G. Morris Clerk.

Know all Men by these Presents,
That I, Esther Bennett of Springfield in the County of Hampshire in the State of Massachusetts Widow of Joseph Bennett deceased, and formerly Widow of Joseph Bennett in Pelham in the County of Hampshire - (State of mind) a Revolutionary Pension
who served in the Revolutionary War, do hereby constitute and appoint, with power of substitution, Francis M. Welch, and lawful Attorney irrevocable for me, and in my name and stead to prosecute my claims for a pension, and for all arrears and increase of pension, as also for any and all bounty lands, which said pensions and lands are due me, on account of the said services of the said Joseph Bennett and to prosecute such claims before the Government of the United States, or the proper officer or officers thereof, and to receive from such Government or officer, all such sums of money, certificates, warrants, or evidences of debt or value that may be issued in my name and allowed me, on account of the said service, and in my name to give the necessary and proper receipts and vouchers therefor, giving to my said attorney full power and lawful authority to make, execute, and deliver all papers and powers necessary to receive such moneys or lands, and to give full releases and discharges for the same: And I do hereby ratify and confirm whatsoever my said attorney shall or may lawfully do, or cause to be done, in the premises. and I do hereby revoke & make void any & all former & other powers of attorney by me at any time heretofore made. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty fifth day of November A. D. 1853
Executed in presence of
Nathan Palmer
Esther Bennett
Emma Bennett State of Massachusetts ss. County of Hampshire
A. D. 1853, personally appeared Esther Bennett On this 25th day of November named in the foregoing instrument, and acknowledged that she signed and sealed the same as her free act and deed.
Before me, Nathan Palmer Justice of the Peace.

Post Office Spencer Worcester Co Mass May 20, 1853
Sir
In answer to your inquiries of the 16 inst I have to say that upon reexamination of the town Records I find that Joseph Bennett and Esther Green were married on the 17 th of April 1800 — I am unable to state whether she is now living or not — Very Respectfully Yours G. H. Simmons P.M.
S. P. Waldo Esq Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

483. Mar. 16/53
Esther Bennett, Widow of Joseph, Mass.
Act Feb. 3 d 1853
H. G. Noyes, Springfield Mass.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts } Hampden County } ss.
On this Eighth day of March, A.D. One thousand eight hundred and fifty three, personally appeared before me, Horatio S. Noyes, a Justice of the Peace, within and for the County and State aforesaid, Esther Bennett, aged Seventy eight years, a resident of Belchertown, in said State, who being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the Widow of Joseph Bennett deceased, who was a private in the company commanded by Captain — Wilbur of the Rhode Island militia in the war of the Revolution. That her said husband volunteered at Scituate in said state of Rhode Island, and was a pensioner, for his services in said war, at the rate of Five Dollars per month, for about seven years previous to his death, which occurred at said Belchertown on the nineteenth day of December A.D. One thousand eight hundred and thirty eight — that he resided at said Belchertown at the time he drew his first pension, and continued to reside there until his death — That her marriage with the said Joseph Bennett was solemnized at Spencer in said Massachusetts, by Benjamin Dury a magistrate of said Spencer, on the Seventeenth day of April, A.D. Eighteen hundred. — That her name before her said marriage was Esther Green, and that she is still the Widow of the said Joseph Bennett — She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the pension (and arrears if any) to which she may be entitled under the act passed February 3 d . 1853.
In presence of { Emma Bennett  Esther Bennett William A. Cloyes
Sworn to, and subscribed before me, the day and year first above written Horatio S. Noyes. Justice of the Peace

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
HAMPDEN, ss.
J Geo. Morris
I, RICHARD BLISS , Clerk of the Judicial Courts of the Commonwealth, for the County of Hampden, do certify, that Horatio S. Noyes Esquire, whose signature is affixed to the certificate on the paper hereto annexed, was at the date thereof, one of the Justices of the Peace, within and for said County, duly commissioned, and acting under the authority of this Commonwealth; and that full faith and credit are and ought to be given to his acts and attestations done in that capacity; and that I am acquainted with the hand-writing of the said Horatio S. Noyes and believe his signature to said certificate is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the Court of Common Pleas for said Commonwealth, this fourteenth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty three
Geo. Morris clerk.

I Jesse King of Coventry in the County of Kent in the State of Rhode Island Being of lawful age and Engaged According to law do testify and say That I was an Enlisted Soldier in the Revolutionary War I Enlisted for nine Months in the Year one Thousand seven Hundred and eighty eight I think my Captain was Captain Parker and in the Regiment commanded by Colonel Garry and I served three Months under said Captain Parker and then served the other six Months under Captain Mann of Providence and when I was under Captain Parker Joseph Brinet who then Belonged to the Town of Scituate in the County of Providence in said State of Rhode Island was also a Soldier in said Company I did not see him enlist but I have no doubt he enlisted and served nine Months in said Army I was with him three Months and then I was taken out of the Regi- ment and served under Captain Mann as afore- said
Jesse King his mark
State of Rhode Island &c Providence ss On the sixth day of August A D 1832 then appeared the aforesaid Jesse King and after being lawfully examined cautioned and sworn to testify the truth the whole truth and nothing but the truth gave the foregoing Deposition which were by me reduced to writing in, and by him subscribed

in my presence. Before me
Benjamin Wilbur Justice of the Peace
Thereby certify that I have been acquainted with Jesse King, subscriber to the foregoing Deposition more than twenty years and I consider him to be a Man of Truth and Veracity Temperance and Sobriety Scituate August the 6 th A D 1832 Benjamin Wilbur Justice of the Peace
I Charles Stone of Scituate in the County of Providence in the State of Rhode Island hereby certify that I have been personally acquainted with Jesse King subscriber to the foregoing Deposition and I consider him to be a Man of Truth and Veracity Temperance and Sobriety I have been acquainted with him more than forty years Charles Stone Esq r
I hereby certify that I have been well ac- quainted with the Reverend Charles Stone subscriber to the foregoing Certificate more than thirty years (that he has had the care of a Church so called during said time) and I consider him to be a Man of Truth and Veracity Temperance and Sobriety Benjamin Wilbur Justice of the Peace Scituate August the 6 th A D 1832

I Samuel Wight of Scituate in the County of Providence in the State of Rhode Island Being in the eighty first Year of my Age and engaged according to law do testify and say that in the Revolutionary War I was a Soldier under Captain Samuel Wilbur one Month at Bristol in Rhode Island in the Militia and that Joseph Bennet who then Belonged to said Scituate aforesaid who was then a near Neighbor to me was also a soldier in said Company and served the Month aforesaid and did Duty in said Company. The Year I do not now exactly Remember. I was also a Soldier and went to Warwick in said State of Rhode Island and and along the Shores and said Joseph Bennet I recollect of Being there several times But how long he staid at any time I do not recollect
Samuel his Wight mark State of Rhode Island &c Providence ss on the seventh day of August A D 1832 then appeared the aforesaid Samuel Wight Sub- scribed to the foregoing Deposition and after being carefully examined Reaffirmed and sworn to tell the truth the whole truth and nothing But the truth gave the foregoing Deposition (which was by me in his presence Reduced to writing) and by him subscribed in my Presence Before me Benjamin Wilbur Justice of the Peace

Scituate August the 7 th 1832
I hereby certify that I have been well acquainted with Samuel Wight Subscriber to the aforesaid Deposition more than Forty Years and I have always considered him during said time a Man of truth and Veracity Temperance and Sobriety and consider him so now.
Benjamin Wilbur Justice of the Peace State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations
Providence ss I William R Watson Clerk of the court of Common Pleas within and for the county of Providence in the State aforesaid, hereby certify that Benjamin Wilbur within end above named is a Justice of the Peace for the Town of Scituate in said county and State and that he is duly empowered to administer oaths and take depositions - and that the four preceding signatures purporting to be his, is in the proper hand writing of said Benjamin Wilbur -
In Witness whereof, I hereunto set my hand and the affix the seal of said court at Providence this 8 th day of August in the year 1832
W. R. Watson

I may certify that the enclosed officemate was carried by Jos. Bennet to Pauiau in R. Island for the purpose of having the authentication thereof corrected, and the Clerk Wm R. Walser not now being in town, the new Clerk declined making any alterations because he said the certificate was already written on the same piece of paper with the magistrates signa- ture, and did not know how he could alter it. I hope under the circumstances this explanation will be considered satisfactory. Mynors Lawrence J.P., P.M.

6001
Joseph Bennett
J. Hinckley Esq. Northampton Mass.

BRIEF objections to the admission of Pension Claims , of which those answered in the negative, in red ink, will apply to the claim of Joseph Bennett which require further proof or explanation.
I. Does the declaration show where the applicant resides? Yes, II. Did the declarant make the declaration in the county where he resides? Yes, III. If the applicant did not make the declaration in the county where he resides, is there any reason assigned for his not doing so? IV. Has the declarant mentioned the period or periods of the war when he served? No, V. * Has he mentioned with precision the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled? Yes for 9 months, VI. Has he given the names of the officers under whom he served, in conformity with the regulations? Yes, VII. Has he made a relinquishment of every claim to any other pension than the one under the Act of June 7, 1832? Yes, VIII. Has the Court given their opinion? Yes, IX. Has the Clerk given his certificate? Yes, X. Is the Clerk's seal affixed? And if so, has it a device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal? Yes,

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

It is important in all cases to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service. The use of the phrase about three or four months is too indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable. Some persons who apply for pensions merely state they served two years in the militia, &c. without specifying the tours; the names of the officers, and other particulars respecting their service. This form of a declaration is highly objectionable. It must in every case be clearly shewn under what officers the applicant served; the duration of each term of engagement; the particular place or places where the service was performed; that the applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by competent authority; that he was either in the field or in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil pursuit.
†QUERE XIV. Proof of Service.
In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses, who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of the claimants entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged. The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
‡QUERE XVI. Mode of authenticating papers.
In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who 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 narrow ribbon, the ends of which must pass under the seal of office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any paper from being improperly attached to the certificate.
¶ In every case where the clerk of the court, or other certifying officer, has no public seal of office, the certificate of a member of congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should accompany the papers.

J. E. Knapp Civ. Eng. Division
Dec. 31, 1852.

Pension Office December 31 st 1852
Sir,
The application of Esther Binnat, widow of Joseph of Mass. has been received and filed under the act of July 29 th 1848. I do not find upon our files any such pensioner as she describes her husband to have been. No pensioner of his name from Massachusetts either received the amount stated by her or died at the time specified in her declaration.
I am respectfully Your obedt. servt.
E. Hall Commr.
Mason Shaw Esq. } Belchertown, } Mass. }

Jan: 12/53
Rel: to claim of Esther Bennett widow of Joseph
FREE
Mason Shau Belcheitown or similar
James E. Heath Esquire Commissioner of Pensions Washington
D. C.
Ina

Belchertown Jan. 7 th 1853
James E. Heath Esquire Commissioner of Pensions.
Sir
Your favor of Dec r 31 st I received yesterday, informing me that "the application of Esther Bennett, widow of Joseph Bennett of Mass. was received and filed under the act of July 29 th 1848, I do not find upon our files any such pensioner as she describes her husband to have been, NO person of his name from Massachusetts either received the amount stated by her or died at the time specified in her declaration."
I called on her yesterday and enquired who received her husband's pension for him. She promptly replied, and said I attended Probate Court for her and received $17.50 due him at his decease and charged her $2.50
I have turned to my journal and find that March 16 th 1838 I received Joseph Bennett's pension $30 and paid it to him, and March 8 th 1839, I find this entry, Esther Bennett Dr
" pension power — — — — — To attending Probate Court — paid fees to court &c $ 1.50 1.00 " cash — — — — — 15.00 17.50 Cr, By your pension power for Joseph Bennett's pension to his death Dec r 19 th 1838 at $60 per annum } 17.50
His pension certificate was of course left with the agent in Boston for paying pensions at that time, I must therefore request a reexamination of the files in your office, as soon as convenient, for the papers in Joseph Bennett's case have been accidentally overlooked.
I hope they will be readily found, and that Esther Bennett's pension

Certificate will be forwarded to me soon,
Very respectfully
Your obt. Servt.
Mason Shaw

26,044
5 Her Aug

New England Conservatory of Music.
Founded, 1870, by Dr. Eben Tourjé.
Carl Faellen, Director.
Frank H. Hale, General Manager.
Franklin Square.
Boston, Mass. Jan'y 25 th 1896.
John next cc.
Chief of the Land & Business Office
Dear Sir
I have written Col. Ansell for information of my Great Grand & Great Grandfather John Bennett & Joseph Bennett Revolution soldiers from R.I. Joseph Bennett served a pension but his Father John Bennett never. I want to join the Daughters of the Revolution but want something more than just three mere soldiers. I want to know more of them if possible. Col. A. advised me to write to you as you could tell me all that you know as to tell. Miss Jessie Hale Agent for R.I. says all the soldiers are at Washington. Will you please give me the word

1139080
to greatly oblige By addressing Mary M. Hannis R. I. Penmanship of Mass Franklin Sq - Boston Mass
Very Respectfully Yours - M. M. H.
MD

Nov. 20, 1934,
Bureau of Pensions, Sir:
I wish to secure information regarding Joseph Bennett, War File #8359 Revolutionary War. His pension was made out to his wife Esther Green & was recorded in the Pension office on the Roll of Pensioners under Act of Feb. 3, 1853, Page 41 Vol 1. (Given at Dept. of Interior Feb. 2, 1854.)
I wish to secure record of his birth, enlistment, marriage, death, etc for D. A. R. records.
Will be grateful for above information & thank you.
Mrs. Harold F. Belden, 56 Edendale St., East Springfield, Mass.

one got stamped, 2 Bureau of Pensions
Gentlemen
I am looking up my Grandfather revolutionary war record in regard to. Joining D A R
There are so many Joseph Bennett, I cannot tell which I think this gives me what I want Joseph Bennett
Pension 3565
Recorded in the pension office on the roll of pensions under the act of Feb 3, 1853
Page 41 Vol 6.
Will send whatever charge is as soon as I receive answer. Thank you for your trouble until then.
Yours Truly Mrs L E Hamley No Willbraham Mass
L E Hamley

Department of the Interior, BUREAU OF PENSIONS,
Washington, D. C., June 19 1902.
Madam:-
In reply to your communication of a recent date, you are informed that this Bureau is unable to furnish a history of the service of any soldier of the Revolutionary war or of the war of 1812 unless he or his widow was a pensioner or an applicant for pension or bounty land; and that under the rules such a history is furnished only to the soldier's descendants, and to them only when it is desired for historical or genealogical purposes.
The large number of inquiries made on this subject, and the length of time required to make a proper search of the records in each case, will not permit of information being given to any applicant concerning more than two soldiers.
In order that the soldier concerning whom you desire information may be identified, you are requested to furnish as much as possible of the data called for below.
Very respectfully,
Mrs. Mary E. Walradt, East Springfield, New York
O. F. Ware Commissioner.
Full name of soldier, Joseph Bennett Where did he enter service? Kent County - R. I. or Middlesex County - Mass Under what officers did he serve? Place of residence after service, Pawtucket - R. I. or East Greenwich, R. I. Approximate date of death, Given name of widow, Emily Bannington Did either the soldier or his widow receive a pension? Additional information, The Widow was still living 1848
Signature, (Mrs. or Miss to be prefixed if a lady signs.)
Post-office address, including street and number, town, county, and State.
July 7th 1802

September 23, 1918
Mrs. L. E. Hawley, North Wilbraham, Massachusetts.
Madam:
In addition to the military history of Joseph Bennett, W. File No. 8359, Rev. War, you are furnished the following list showing names and dates of birth of his children by his second wife, taken from the papers on file in the claim:
Children.
Mary Born June 13, 1800 Welcome " April 22, 1802 Jefferson " June 6, 1804 Louisa " (September 23, 1806 (Died April 13, ----- Abilene " March 25, 1809 Louisa " December 31, 1811 Salley M. " July 20, 1814 Lemuel Green " December 1, 1816 Joseph " October 13, 1819.
Very respectfully,
Commissioner.

In reply to your request of _____, received _____ for a statement of the military history of Joseph Bennett 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. N. F. 8359.
   DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. LENGTH OF SERVICE. RANK. OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. STATE.   CAPTAIN. COLONEL.     Dec. 1776. 1 mo. Pri. Trilber ✓ R.I.   Inch. 1777 8 " Trilber Waterman   Simeon Harrington Low.   Jonathan Knight Brown.   June, 1778 to Mch. 16, '79. Parker Carary  
Battles engaged in, _____ ✓ Residence of soldier at enlistment, Scituate, Providence Co. R.I. Date of application for pension, Aug. 15, 1832. His Cl. was al. Residence at date of application, Belchertown, Hampshire Co., Mass. Age at date of application, 74 yrs. He was born at Scituate, R.I.
Remarks: He mar. at Spencer, Mass. Apr. 3, 1799 or Apr. 17, 1800, Esther Green. He died Dec. 19, 1838 at Belchertown, Mass. and she was al. join. on an ap. ex Feb. 17, 1852 while a resident of Belchertown, Mass., aged 77 yrs. (off. no 35667) Pearley Buxton aged 63 yrs. in 1852, was a daughter and one of seven children (no other names affixed) of a soldier by his first wife whose name is not stated. Respectfully,
(See Family data on another sheet.)
Commissioner.