Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 14322, George Blackman, Mass.

SERVICE
NUMBER
Mass
Blackman, George Phebe
W. 14322
B.L.Wt. 32207-160-55-
CONTENTS

6381
Massachusetts -
Phebe Blackman -
widow of George Blackman
who served in the Revolutionary
war, as a private -
Half
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of
48. Dollars 42
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
Certificate of Pension issued the 28 th day of May 1856. and sent to
A. W. Hayer.
Northampton -
Masss.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 2, 1848, Page 264 Vol. 76

Ms. A. 9. 2. 14 - Act 3. Mar 50 16 th July 55
Phoebe Blackman wife of George Blackman
Phoebe
Rev. Mr. 2207 July Mar
Map July 218-6381
AD: 1600 a. June 27/82 Blyth
E
A. Mr. Thayer Northampton
Vol. B. 165.

1 Application for certificate of Revolutionary Services, made by the Widow of the party who rendered the services.
State of Massachusetts, County of Hampshire, Town of Northampton
The Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is hereby requested to furnish evidence from the Rolls in his office, of the service of George Blackman in the War of the Revolution. He was a native of Stoughton , in the County of Norfolk, and State of Massachusetts. It is believed that he enlisted at said  Stoughton in the year 1778 or 1779, and that his Captain's name was Bent. Also, that he went with the army somewhere south, but how long he served, is unknown. I do not remember the name of his Colonel.
I am now ninety four years old, and my memory does not enable me to state the services of my husband more fully, than above stated. Witness my hand, this twenty-third day of May, A. D. 1835.
* Now Canton
Phoebe Blackman.
Signed by said Phoebe Blackman in my presence
A. W. Thayer, Justice of the Peace
The above changes of Canton for Stoughton were made before signing A. D. 1835.

2 State of Massachusetts } County of Hampshire } ss.
On this fifth day of June, A.D. one thousand eight hundred and fiftyfive, personally appeared in open Court, before the Court of Probate within and for the County and State aforesaid, Phebe Blackman, aged ninety four years, a resident of Northampton, in said County and State, who having been first duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the Pension to which she may be entitled under the act of Congress, approved July 7, 1838, and other acts, supplementary and succeeding thereto, as the widow of George Blackman, late of said town of Northampton, deceased, who was an officer or soldier of the United States in the War of the Revolution. Said deponent declares that the said George Blackman was born, as she has been informed and believes, in the town of Stoughton, in the County of Norfolk, and State aforesaid, A.D. 1761; that he entered the military service of the United States in the Revolutionary War, while a resident of said Stoughton; and that he served at various times, through several years, during said War. She further declares that he removed to said Northampton about A.D. 1788; and that he died in said town, A.D. 1807, aged forty-six years. Said deponent refers for evidence of the said service of her husband, the said George Blackman, to the annexed official certificate of the Secretary of the State of Massachusetts, and to accompanying documents also hereto annexed. And said Phebe Blackman further declares that she is the widow of the identical George Blackman, named in said offi-

cial certificate, and other documents, hereto annexed, and who was an officer or soldier of the United States in the Revolutionary War; that she was married to said George Blackman in said town of Northampton, on the 7 th day of April, A.D. 1791, by one Solomon Williams, a clergyman; and that her name before marriage was Phebe Strong. She also declares that neither herself, nor her said husband have ever received any pension or applied for any. Wherefore she prays that she may be allowed and paid the amount of Pension which may be due her as the widow of said George Blackman.
And the said Phebe Blackman does hereby relinquish every claim whatsoever to any pension or annuity except that which is now applied for. She also says that she is still a widow.
Phebe Blackman
Sworn to and subscribed in open court Before me Nathan Loring Judge of Probate
And the said court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting all necessary interrogatories, that the before named applicant, Phebe Blackman, is the widow of the said George Blackman, who is mentioned in the accompanying certificate of the Secretary of the State of Massachusetts as having served at various times in the American Revolutionary War.
And the said court further certifies that it appears to them that Isaac Sheldon and William F. Arnold, whose names are severally subscribed to declarations hereto annex-

ed, are residents of said Northampton, and that Timothy Billings, whose name is subscribed to one other declaration, also hereto annexed, is a resident of the town of Deerfield, in the county of Franklin, and State aforesaid; that they are credible persons; that the signatures purporting to be theirs, are genuine; and that their respective statements are entitled to credit.
William Loring Judge of Probate
I, A. Perry Peck, Register of the Court of Probate within and for the County of Hampshire and State of Massachusetts, do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS.
HAMPSHIRE SS.
I, Samuel Wells
Clerk of the Judicial
Courts of the Commonwealth, for the County of Hampshire, do certify, that Nijah M. Pray 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 Nijah M. Pray and believe his signature to said certificate is genuine:
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the Supreme Judicial Court, for said Commonwealth, this eleventh day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty five
Samuel Wells
Clerk.

ed, are residents of said Northampton, and that Timothy Billings, whose name is subscribed to one other declaration, also hereto annexed, is a resident of the town of Deerfield, in the county of Franklin, and State aforesaid; that they are credible persons; that the signatures purporting to be theirs, are genuine; and that their respective statements are entitled to credit.
Alanson Cook Judge of Probate
I, A. Perry Peck, Register of the Court of Probate within and for the County of Hampshire and State of Massachusetts, do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of Phebe Blackman for the Pension due to her as the widow of George Blackman aforesaid. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this fifth day of June, A. D. 1855.
A. Perry Peck Register of Probate

State of Massachusetts) County of Franklin } ss
I, Timothy Billings, aged eighty five years, a resident of the town of Deerfield, in the County and State aforesaid, being duly sworn according to law, do on my oath declare, that I was born in the town of Houghton, in the County of Norfolk, and State aforesaid; that during most of the time of my minority, I lived in said town of Houghton, and was well acquainted with all the Blackman family; that George Blackman Junior, the son of George Blackman, then both residents of said Houghton, was born in the immediate neighborhood of my birth-place and residence, where I was intimately acquainted with him, the said George, junior, - with his father, the said George, senior, and with all the other members of the family, until I removed to the County of Franklin aforesaid, at the age of sixteen years; that my wife's father was a brother of the wife of George Blackman senior, aforesaid; that after the removal of the said George Blackman junior to the town of Northampton, in the County of Hampshire, and State aforesaid, about twelve miles from my present residence, where he followed the trade of a baker, I many times visited him at his residence in that town, where I saw both himself, and his wife, Phebe Blackman, now his widow, whom I well know; that I positively know that the person, whom I knew in said Houghton, bearing the name of George Blackman junior, as aforesaid, was the identical person, whom I afterwards knew as George Blackman, the husband of Phebe Blackman, in Northampton, as aforesaid. And I further

more on my oath declare, that I believe, and have never doubted, that the said George Blackman junior was a soldier in the Revolutionary War; and I remember, particularly, of hearing about his enlisting in a military expedition to Rhode Island; but I was then too young to have personal knowledge of the facts. I also declare, that I never heard whether George Blackman senior was, or was not, engaged in the Revolutionary service, though I remember having heard it said that most of the able bodied people of Grafton were, at that time, more or less engaged in that war. The said George Blackman senior was then, as I believe, about fifty years of age.
And I furthermore upon my oath declare, that so far as I know or believe, or have ever heard, no person, bearing the name of George Blackman has resided in said town of Grafton, within the time of my remembrance, excepting the aforesaid George Blackman senior, and his son, George Blackman junior, who was the husband of the identical Phebe Blackman, now a resident of said Northampton, and now claiming a pension as his widow. I also declare that I have no interest in the result of the said Phebe Blackman's application for a pension, either directly or indirectly.
Timothy Billings
Subscribed and duly sworn to before me, this Nineteenth day of January, A. D. 1836.
Estemus Williams Justice of the Peace
I hereby certify that Timothy Billings, whose name is subscribed to the foregoing affidavit,

is well known to me; that in my opinion he is in possession of entire soundness of mind and memory; that he is a credible person; and that his declarations, contained in said affidavit, are entitled to credit. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, the day and year last before written
Artemas Williams Justice of the Peace
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
FRANKLIN, SS.
I, GEORGE GRENNELL, Clerk of the Judicial Courts of the Commonwealth, for the County of Franklin, do certify, that Artemas Williams 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 Artemas Williams and believe his signature to said Certificate is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the Supreme Judicial Court for said Commonwealth, this twentyfirst day of January , in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and fifty Six
Geo. Grennell Clerk.

188.744

State of Massachusetts } County of Hampshire } ss
On this ninth day June, A.D. one thousand eight hundred and fifty-five, personally appeared before me, a justice of the Peace within and for the county and State aforesaid, Phebe Blackman, aged ninety four years, a resident of the town of Northampton, in said County and State, who being duly sworn according to law, on her oath declares that she is the widow of the identical George Blackman, late of said Northampton, deceased, who was an officer or soldier in the Revolutionary War; that the evidences of the service and death of the said George Blackman, - said service being of a duration of not less than fourteen days, - and of the marriage and widowhood of said Phebe Blackman, are contained in the official certificate of the Secretary of the State of Massachusetts, and other documents accompanying and annexed to said certificate, which are herewith forwarded to the Commissioner of Pensions, for the purpose of establishing the claim of said Phebe Blackman to the Pension to which she may be entitled as the widow of said George Blackman, to all which she refers in support of this her application for Bounty Land, under the act of Congress, approved March 3, 1855. She further declares that she has never

applied for or received any Bounty Land; and that she is still 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 3, 1855. Phebe Blackman
We, Thomas Rogers and Julia C. Edwards residents of Northampton, in the State of Massachusetts, declare upon our oaths, that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Phebe Blackman, in our presence, and that we believe, from the appearance and declarations of the applicant, that she is the identical person she represents herself to be.
Thos. Rogers
Julia C. Edwards,
The foregoing declaration and affidavit were sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year herein before 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.
A. W. Thayer, Justice of the Peace

The commissioner of Pensions will please forward my Warrant to A.W. Thayer, North- ampton Mass. who as my agent will receive the same and transmit it to me. Phebe Blackman.
7
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS.
HAMPSHIRE SS.
I, Samuel Wells Clerk of the Judicial Courts of the Commonwealth, for the County of Hampshire, do certify, that Hezekiah M. Thayer 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 handwriting of the said Hezekiah M. Thayer and believe his signature to said certificate is genuine:
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the Supreme Judicial Court, for said Commonwealth, this eleventh day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty five
Samuel Wells
Clerk.

The commissioner of Pensions will please forward my Warrant to A. W. Thayer, North- ampton Mass. who as my agent will receive the same and transmit it to me.
Phebe Blackman.
7
The word Phebe was inserted in the foregoing declara- tion and affidavit before signature.
A. W. Thayer Justice of Peace

State of Massachusetts } C.P. County of Norfolk }
I Charles Upham a resident of the town of Houghton in the County and State aforesaid, of lawful age being duly sworn according to law do upon my oath declare that I am the duly elected Clerk of said town and that as such I have the legal custody of its records! That I have carefully examined said records! That I find therein the name of George Blackman as the son of George and Thankful Blackman born July 31. 1728 also the marriage of George Blackman Jr and Annie Dively Jan 1. 1752! That I subsequently find in the records of Births the names of the following "children of George and Anna Blackman" with the date of each birth in the following words and figures, to wit - Lemuel born March 11. 1753 - Elisha born Sept 27. 1755 - Lucy Nov 27. 1757 - Nancy Oct 22. 1759 - George Jan 3. 1762.
I also declare that neither the name of Lemuel or Elisha Blackman appears in any of said records as in any way connected with the Revolutionary War! That there is no person bearing the name of Blackman who appears by said records to have been connected with the Revolutionary War except George Blackman Jr. Oliver Blackman and Samuel Blackman Jr. which last two persons appear to have belonged to a different family from said George Blackman Jr. I also declare that excepting the references to the persons named George Blackman and George Blackman Jr as aforesaid there is no mention of any person or persons named George Blackman or George Blackman Jr in any of said records.
Charles Upham
Norfolk C.P. Subscribed and duly sworn to before me this twenty sixth day of September 1855
Samuel Gay Justice of the Peace
I hereby certify that the above named Charles Upham is well known to me! That he is a credible person and that the foregoing declaration by him subscribed is entitled to credit.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand on the day and year last above written.
Samuel Gay Justice of the Peace

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston, Sept. 29, 1858.
I Hereby Certify , That at the date of the attestation hereunto annexed.
Emel Gay time w
Justice of the Peace for the County of Norfolk
in the said Commonwealth, duly commissioned and constituted; 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.
E. M. Wright
Secretary of the Commonwealth.

No 15,331.
Shock Blackman,
near Geyser,
Map.
July 7 1838.
J. W. Thayer
Northampton
Mass
--- a small line upon
Be n

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston,
May 24 th 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 George Blackman is borne on muster roll of the Company that marched from Stoughton to the assistance of the Continental Army when they fortified the Heights of Dorchester, on the 4 th of March 1776, in Capt. Asahel Smith's Comp. Col. Benjamin Giles Regt. 5 days as Lieut. Also on pay roll of Capt. Thomas White's Comp. Maj. Edward Proctor's Detachment for guards from Dec. 22 nd 10. 1777 2 mos. 22 days.
Also on pay roll of Capt. James Endicott's Comp. Col. William McIntosh's Regt. from March 20. to April 18 th 1778, 18 days travel included, as Lieut. from Stoughton.
Also on pay roll of Capt. Abner Crane's Comp. in the service of the United States, from Jan'y. 30. 1779, 3 mos. 4 days, 3, 4 from Stoughton.
Also on pay roll of Capt. Joseph Richards Comp. Col. Giles Regt. serving at R. Island from Aug. 11. to Sept. 11. 1779. 1 month 3 days.

Also on pay roll of the six mos. Men raised by the Town of Stoughton to reinforce the Continental Army in the year 1780. from June 25. to Dec. 23. 1780. and 220 miles travel, 6 mos. 9 days. Signed by the Selectmen of Stoughton Jan'y. 21. 1782. Read and allowed by the Council Feby. 25. 1782.
And I further Certify, That, before search made for evidence of said facts, the application hereto annexed was filed in this Office, in the form in which the same now appears; that the search was made by myself and my clerks alone; and that said application, and the certificate above set forth, contain all the facts and circumstances within my knowledge, pertaining to the case.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the Commonwealth, the date above written.
E. H. Wight Secretary of the Commonwealth.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
FRANKLIN, ss.
I, GEO. GRENNELL, Clerk of the Judicial Courts of the Commonwealth, for the County of Franklin, do certify, that Artemas Williams 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 authorized to take the acknowledgment of deeds, powers of attorney and other instruments; 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 Artemas Williams Esquire, and believe his signature to said Certificate is genuine. I further certify that the instrument hereto annexed, is executed and acknowledged according to the laws of this State.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the Supreme Judicial Court for said Commonwealth, this first day of June in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and fifty five .
Geo. Grennell Clerk.

State of Massachusetts } ss County of Franklin - }
I, Timothy Billings, aged eighty four years, a resident of the town of Deerfield, in the County and State aforesaid, being duly sworn according to law, on my oath declare and say, that I was born, and lived till I was sixteen or seventeen years of age, in the town of Houghton, in the County of Norfolk, and State aforesaid; that I well knew George Blackman Jr. who was born in said town of Houghton, and who there lived in the same neighborhood with myself, - being that part of said Houghton now known as the town of Canton, - whose widow, as I am informed, now lives in the town of Northampton, in the County of Hampshire, and State aforesaid, and now applies for the pension which may be due her as the widow of said George Blackman, Jr. he being reputed as a Revolutionary Officer or soldier, though of that I am unable to testify, being but a young boy, at the time of the American Revolution. I also declare that

I not only knew said Blackman before he left said Houghton, and was well acquainted in his father's family, but knew him well after he removed to said Northampton, about A.D. 1788, as near as I can remember, - where I know he was married and resided many years, up to the time of his death, which I should think was not far from fifty years ago. And I also upon my oath declare that said George Blackman Jr. who was known to me in said town of Houghton was the identical George Blackman, who was known to me in said Northampton as aforesaid. And I further declare, that I never knew or heard of any other person, residing in said Houghton, bearing the name of George Blackman Jr. during the time in which said George Blackman lived there; and I believe that no other person, bearing that name, did then and there live. And I also declare that I am disinterested.
Timothy Billings

The foregoing deposition was subscribed and duly sworn to before me, this First day of June A. D. 1855.
Artemas Williams Justice of the Peace
I hereby certify that Timothy Billings, herein- fore named, is well known to me; that he is a credible person; and that the foregoing state- ment by him subscribed is worthy of credit.— In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, the day and year last above written.
Artemas Williams
Justice of the Peace

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston, July 6. 1855
I Hereby Certify , That at the date of the attestation hereunto annexed, on the second day of February 1849 Samuel Gay was Commissioned a Justice of the Peace for the County of Norfolk for the term of Seven Years
in the said Commonwealth, duly commissioned and constituted; 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.
E. M. Wright
Secretary of the Commonwealth.

State of Massachusetts } ss County of Norfolk }
I Charles Upham 2 d a resident of the town of Dighton in the County and State aforesaid having been duly sworn according to law on my oath declare and say that I am the Clerk of said town of Dighton and that as such I have the legal custody of the Records of said Town; that I have examined said Records and find duly entered thereon the following words and figures to wit
In the Town Treasurers Books as follows
Nov 15 1779. The Town of Dighton Dr. to George Blackman Jr £. 15. It being in full of the Towns Bounty for their enlisting & serving four weeks in the State of Rhode Island, agreeable to an order of Council of the tenth day of Augt last.
Oct 9 th 1781 The Town of Dighton Dr. to Elijah Dunbar the sum of Two Thous and one hundred thirty four pounds four shillings old currency it being what he paid the men who engaged in the Public Service pursuant to an order of the General Court of the 28 th of Feb y 1781 viz to George Blackman Jr £ 60
Jan 20 1782 The Town of Dighton Dr. to James Endicott the sum of Six pound Nineteen shilling to enable him to pay to the persons hereafter named the sums respectively annexed to each of their names it being what remained to each of them from the Town of Dighton for their service twenty seven days at Rhode Island in March 1781 viz to George Blackman Jr £ 8
And said deponent also says that he finds among the files in the Town Clerks Office an original document of which the following is a copy - the signatures being in the hand writing of the persons bearing the names respectively - to the Selectmen of Dighton.
Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioners were taxed by the Assessors of said Town in the silver money rate; & in another State rate & Town tax when your petitioners were absent from the Town in the Continental Army in the last six months service - that many other towns did not tax their soldiers who were in said service - that Dightonham did not is well known to this town - that the large bounty the town gave to your petitioners was one quarter part smaller than what other towns gave to their soldiers in general - that by reason of the scarcity of provision & not drawing a full allowance in the army & for six days together none at all your petitioners were obliged to

petitioners was one quarter part smaller than what other towns gave to their soldiers in general - that by reason of the scarcity of provision & not drawing a full allowance in the army & for six days together none at all your petitioners were obliged to expend a considerable part of these bounties for the necessary subsistence of life to treble the amount of what they reasonably expected - that at the time of engaging in said service the honorable committee of the town raised the expectations of your petitioners with the most flattering hopes that no soldiers in any town would be used better - that these hopes are not expired but still live upon the honor and justice of the town - therefore request that the promises may be properly exhibited before the town at their next meeting - & pray that the town would in their regard for justice & equity direct that the rates & taxes above mentioned so far as they respect the polls of your petitioners be remitted - and in
duty bound would ever pray
Ghighton, Feb. 17th 1787
George Blackman Jr
And said deponent further says that after diligently searching and inquiring he has been unable to learn either from said Record or from aged people in the town of Ghighton that any other person lived in said town during the Revolutionary war bearing the name of George Blackman Jr than the person who is mentioned in the records aforesaid and who is reputed to have removed to the town of Northampton Hampshire County and State aforesaid a few years subsequent to the Revolutionary war. He also says that the name of George Blackman Jr does not occur among the records of marriages or deaths in said town of Ghighton.
Charles Upham D
Your Clerk of Ghighton.
804/16/1
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 10th day
July 1805
Samuel Gay Justice of the Peace

State of Massachusetts } County of Hampshire } ss
I, Isaac Sheldon, aged eighty-one years, a resident of the town of Northampton, in the County and State aforesaid, being duly sworn according to law, on my oath declare, that I well knew George Blackman, late of said Northampton, deceased, whose widow now applies for the Pension to which she may be entitled as the widow of said George Blackman; that I knew him, as I believe, for more than fifteen years; and that according to my best recollection, he died in said Northampton nearly fifty years ago. I further declare that while, owing to the great length of time that has elapsed since his death, I do not remember the name of the town from whence he emigrated to said Northampton, yet I remember that it was said while he was living, that he removed from some town in the neighborhood of Boston, and such was the understanding at the time he came

here. And I further declare that I was informed, and now believe, that said George Blackman was an officer or soldier in the service of the United States in the Revolutionary War; — And I was so informed by the said George Blackman himself; and I distinctly remember hearing him state that he was present as an officer or soldier, and witnessed, the departure of Gen. Arnold, when he went down the Hudson river to join the enemy; and that I also heard him state several details of his own personal observations and experience in the said war, the particulars of which I have forgotten. And I further declare that I well know Phebe Blackman, who is the widow of the identical George Blackman, who was an officer or soldier in the Revolutionary War as aforesaid; that I have known her from the time of my earliest recollection; that her name before marriage was Phebe Strong; that according to my best recollection, she was married about sixty three or four years ago; and I know that

she lived with her said husband till the time of his death; that she is still a widow, and that I am disinterested.
Isaac Sheldon
Subscribed and duly sworn to before me, this first day of June A.D. 1855
A. W. Thayer, Justice of the Peace
I hereby certify that the above named Isaac Sheldon is well known to me; that he is a credible person; and that the foregoing statement by him subscribed is worthy of credit. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand the day and year last above written
A. W. Thayer, Justice of the Peace
where

she lived with her said husband till the time of his death; that she is still a widow, and that I am disinterested. Grace Preble
Subscribed and duly sworn to before me. this
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS.
HAMPSHIRE ss.
I, Germain Wells Clerk of the Judicial Courts of the Commonwealth, for the County of Hampshire, do certify, that Abijah W. Thayer Esquire, whose signature is affixed to the certificates on the papers 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 Abijah W. Thayer and believe his signatures to said certificates is genuine:
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the Supreme Judicial Court, for said Commonwealth, this eleventh day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty five
Germain Wells
Clerk.

George Blackman & Phebe Strong April 7 th by the Rev Solomon Williams
I hereby certify that I am the Clerk of the town of Northampton, County of Hampshire and State of Massachusetts; And that the Records of said town are legally in my custody. The above is a true copy of the records of the Marriage of George Blackman and Phebe Strong contained in the records of said town book; under date, A. D. 1791
W. H. Arnold Town Clerk Northampton June 11. 1835
State of Massachusetts } ss. Subscribed and duly sworn County of Hampshire } to this seventh day of June, A. D. 1835, before me A. W. Thayer, Justice of the Peace

11.819
Massachusetts.
Phebe Blackman.
widow of George Blackman.
who died on the _____ of _____ in the State of _____ who was a private, in the _____ commanded by Captain _____ of the _____ commanded by _____ in the Revolution time for 14 months and 16 days.
Inscribed on the Roll of Boston at the rate of 48 Dollars 42 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.
Certificate of Pension issued the 28 th day of May 1856 and sent to A.W. Shayer
Arrears to the 4th of Northampton Semi-annual allowance ending Mchs. -
Revolutionary Claim, Act July 7, 1838.
Recorded by _____ Clerk. Book No. Vol. 1. Page 179.

State of Massachusetts } ss County of Norfolk }
I Charles Upham am a resident of the town of Houghton in said County and State, of lawful age, being duly sworn according to law, as upon my oath declare that I am duly elected and constituted Clerk of said town of Houghton, and that as such I have the custody of the public records of said town; that I have diligently examined all of said records from A.D. 1775 to 1785 inclusive; that the name (simply) of George Blackman or of George Blackman Junior does not occur upon the list of soldiers or in any way connected with the Revolutionary War; that upon the Treasurers book I find the following words and figures to wit - Dec 12 th 1780 Town of Houghton Dr to George Blackman the sum of 350 pounds it being part of a town note given to George Blackman for No. 199 dated July 1 st 1780 which sum was endorsed upon the note; and also the following words and figures to wit - Feb 20. 1783 Town of Houghton Dr to Mr. George Blackman the sum of one pound four shillings it being for work done on the Fish Ways at Milton Mills in the year 1782. I also declare that in the Town Clerks book the name of George Blackman often occurs as holding small offices in said town, such as in 1773, 1775, 1776 and 1785 he was Surveyor of Shingles & Clapboards - in 1776 he was Field Driver in 1779 he was Surveyor of Lumber in 1780 Surveyor of Ways and in 1785 Tythingman; and that I do not find and am unable to find the name (simply) of George Blackman or of George Blackman Junior in any other connection or in any other instance in any of the records of the town of Houghton; And I also say that I am disinterested.
Charles Upham D r
Norfolk ss
Subscribed & duly sworn to before me this 5 th day of September 1855 Lem Gay Justice of the Peace -
It is hereby certified that the above named Charles Upham is well known to me that he is a credible person; and that the foregoing declaration by him subscribed is entitled to credit. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand on the day and year last above mentioned.
Lem Gay

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston, September 8 th 1855.
I Hereby Certify, That at the date of the attestation hereunto annexed.
Levi Gay was a Justice of the Peace for the County of Norfolk
in the said Commonwealth, duly commissioned and constituted; 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.
E. M. Wright Secretary of the Commonwealth.

State of Massachusetts { County of Hampshire } ss
I, Timothy Billings, aged nearly eighty six years, a resident of the town of Deerfield, in the County of Franklin, and State of Massachusetts, being duly sworn according to law, do upon my oath make the following declarations, as supplemental to my Affidavit, touching the application of Phebe Blackman The widow of George Blackman deceased for pension, which was sworn to by me (I believe) in January last, to wit:- That I well remember, the fact, that George Blackman Jr of Stoughton, went with my brother, Jesse Billings, in an expedition to Rhode Island, - I think to Providence, in the military service of the United States, I should think about three years after the commencement of the Revolutionary War; that I knew that fact, because I rode on horseback behind my brother on the same horse, as far as Attleboro, Massachusetts, to help him on his journey - this being about half way between Stoughton and Providence, - for the purpose of taking back the horse. Other boys went with other soldiers - George Blackman Jr. aforesaid being one of them - for the same purpose of returning with the horses; and I also say, that I know positively, that the said George Blackman Jr of Stoughton was the identical George Blackman, formerly resident of Northampton in the County of Hampshire, and State aforesaid,

namely, Massachusetts, who was the husband of Phebe Blackman of said Northampton, who now applies for a pension. I also say, that I as distinctly remember George Blackman for aforesaid being a soldier in the Revolutionary War, as any other fact in all my experience. I also declare, that I have this day seen and conversed with Phebe Blackman aforesaid, whom I well know, and I am sure, that she is the widow of the identical George Blackman Jr of Houghton who was subsequently George Blackman of said Northampton, and who was a soldier in the Revolutionary service as aforesaid. I also say that I am entirely disinterested.
Timothy Billings
Subscribed and duly sworn to before me this twenty-fourth day of April, A.D. 1856 Alpheus Williams Justice of the Peace
I hereby certify that Timothy Billings, whose name is subscribed to the foregoing affidavit is well known to me; that in my opinion he is of sound mind and memory; that he is a credible person; and that his declarations contained in said affidavit are entitled to credit. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand the day and year first above mentioned. Alpheus Williams Justice of the Peace

COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS.
HAMPSHIRE ss.
I, Samuel Pills Clerk of the Judicial Courts of the Commonwealth, for the County of Hampshire, do certify, that Ephraim Williams 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 Ephraim Williams and that his signature to said certificate is genuine:
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the Supreme Judicial Court, for said Commonwealth, this Twenty Ninth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty Six
Samuel Pills Clerk.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston.
January 26 1856.
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 George Blackman does not appear on the records in this office, as Junior, except in one instance and then two persons of the same name appear on the same roll viz. On pay roll of Capt. James Endicott's Comp. Col. William McIntosh's Regt. from March 20 to April 5. 1778 18 days, travel included, the one as Lieutenant, and the other as private and Junior.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the Commonwealth, the date above written.
J. D. Witt
Secretary of the Commonwealth.

State of Massachusetts } ss. County of Norfolk }
I Charles Upham a resident of the town of Houghton in the County and State aforesaid, of lawful age being duly sworn according to law do upon my oath make the following declaration, supplementary to my last previous affidavits to wit in relation to George Blackman Jr an alleged Revolutionary soldier formerly of said Houghton; That I am the duly elected Clerk of said town of Houghton, and have the legal custody of its records; that I have made a diligent re-examination of its records and find the following words and figures duly entered in the book of the Treasurers of said town - to wit -
Dec 12 1780 To George Blackman the sum of three hundred and fifty pounds it being part of a town note given to George Blackman Jr No 109 dated July 1 st 1780 which same is endorsed on sd note. And I also declare that in another place in said book I find the following words and figures duly entered - to wit -
Feb 12 1781 To George Blackman Jr the sum of three hundred pounds in part of a Town note No 109 dated July 1 st 1780 which same is endorsed on sd note - I also declare that the following is the manner in which the Treasurer kept his book, aforesaid - to wit - Upon the left hand side he entered his orders from the Selectmen; and on the opposite side he entered the payments and the dates when the same were made. Thus, the orders referred to as having been granted to George Blackman and George Blackman Jr on account

of a Town note given to George Blackman for as aforesaid were entered on the left hand side, and on the opposite side of the first of said orders are duly entered the following words and figures to wit-
Dec 29 1780 By Cash paid in full 350 £
And opposite the second of said orders the following words and figures to wit-
Dec 1 1781 By Cash paid in full 300 £
I also declare that among the old papers belonging to said Town and in my custody as aforesaid are the following containing these words and figures to wit-
Stoughton Feb 19th 1781 To Abijah Upham Collector. To pay to Mr George Blackman for three hundred pounds out of the bills soon entitled to you to collect
300 £
J Dumbar
Town Treasurer
I also declare that I am disinterested
Charles Upham Clerk of the Town of Stoughton.
Notwithstanding the above is duly sworn to before me this twenty third day of January 1858 Saml Guy Justice of the Peace
I hereby certify that Charles Upham is well known to me; that he is a credible person; and that his declaration therein is entitled to credit. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand on the day and year above mentioned
Saml Guy Justice of the Peace

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston, July 26 1856
I hereby Certify, That at the date of the attestation hereunto annexed,
Emel Day
Justice of the Peace for the County of Norfolk
in the said Commonwealth, duly commissioned and constituted; and that to her acts and attestations, as such, full faith and credit are and ought to be given, in and out of Court.
In Testimony of Which, I have hereunto affixed the SEAL OF THE COMMONWEALTH, the date above written.
A. D. Witt
Secretary of the Commonwealth.

Northampton Feb. 11-1856-
Hon. S. Diner.
Sir-
I have received yours of the 4 th instant in which you announce adherence to your previously declared adverse decision in the case of Phebe Blackman, widow of George Blackman, for Pension.
This case appears to me so very clear, and it involves so much of interest to the aged widow, and incidentally to her poor and worthy grand-daughter, upon whom she depends for support and care, that I am not content to abandon it while a possibility remains of convincing you of the justice of her claim. I trust, therefore, that you will be disposed to regard my importunity with all reasonable indulgence. At the same time, be assured that from considerations of respect towards yourself, not less than those of a high moral nature, I should be restrained from urging the allowance of any claim, which I did not believe to be justly and rightfully due.
Previous to the receipt of your letter above referred to, I had received from your office, touching this case, four communications, dated, respectively, July 25, 1855 - Sept. 14, 1855 - Oct. 12, 1855, and January 3, 1856. I have looked them all over with much care, and so far as I am able to understand, and for aught that appears to me in any way to the contrary, I have fairly met, and fully answered and obviated every objection presented

in those communications, if I have erred or fallen short in one instance, I am unconscious of the fact.
Your last communication contains the following sentence, "The certificate of the Secretary of Massachusetts sets forth but five days' service as Lieutenant, and it might well have been that the person who served this short time in the militia as such, afterwards performed service in a lower grade". Here this, I suppose I am regarded as regarding as the final objection on which the whole case rests. Consequently it remains for me to remove that objection, and I propose to do so by showing in the first place, that the original certificate of the Secretary of Massachusetts credits Blackman with three terms of service, as Lieutenant, instead of "but one", viz: In 1776, 5 days, in 1778, 18 days, and in 1779, several days, but how many I do not remember. Also, your communication dated Jan. 3 1880, says, " The George Blackman of the certificate was a Lieutenant in 1776, 1778, and 1779. " Of course the affirmation in your of the 4 th inst. must be regarded as a mistake, and the objection, so far, as without foundation. In the second place, I answer the remark that "it might well have been that the person who served this short time in the militia as such, afterwards performed service in a lower grade", by saying, that it seems to me (and I respectfully ask you to consider the propriety and force of what I am saying,) that after having proved that in the time of the Revolutionary War, there were but two persons known in the town of Stoughton bearing the name of George Blackman viz: father and son ; after having proved particularly by

the supplementary certificate of the Secretary of Massachusetts) that the father served as Lieutenant, while the son served as private; when all the attending circumstances go to show, that the latter rendered all the services as private - such as the payment at sundry times, of town bounties to the young man to a large amount, for military services, - contrasted with the entire absence of evidence, that any money was ever paid as bounty to the father on account of his own brief terms of service; the distinct testimony of the rolls, as shown by the certificate last mentioned, that on one occasion, when both the Blackmans happened to be in one and the same company, the father was designated "as Lieutenant," and the son "as junior, and private ," - added to the extreme improbability, that the father, at more than fifty years of age, after having held and while still holding , a Lieutenant's Commission (for according to the rolls, he served as a Lieutenant in 1779 - three years at least after his first service in that capacity) would voluntarily serve in the ranks of a private, while his son, from 18 to 20 years old remained at home; - and after having conclusively proved (see Billings' last affidavit) that this George Blackman Jr. subsequently became a resident of Northampton, and was the husband of the same Phebe Blackman, who now applies for a pension; - I say, after having shown and established all these facts and circumstances, it does seem to me that they ought to outweigh any supposition of bare possibility that the services attributed to the son, might have been rendered by the father of the father rendered

the services as private, I would respectfully ask why did not the town pay him the bounty money which in that case, would have been his due? If the son did not render those services why did the town of Houghton award and pay to him large sums of bounty money expressly on the ground of his having rendered such services?
In conclusion, I crave your indulgence yet further, while I respectfully ask you once more to consider this case in the light of the evidence, and, as I doubt not you are now disposed to do, with a liberal view of the attending circumstances; In doubtful matters weighing probabilities, rather than possibilities, as most likely to result in promoting the just and beneficent purposes of the law. With entire confidence in your disposition to decide with impartiality and justice,
I remain
Very respectfully &c
A. W. Thayer

Northampton, Sept. 10, 1885
Hon. L. Chitt
Sir
Herewith I send you the required evidence concerning George Blackman or George Blackman senior in distinction from George Blackman jr. which, as appears to me, renders it certain that George Blackman Jr. for whose widow I now apply for a pension is the person who rendered the service certified by the Secretary of State. I cannot but think, that on a review of the evidence you will arrive at the conclusion that Phoebe Blackman, the applicant is entitled to a Pension. I am sure if you could see her, and hear her talk on the subject, any remaining doubts that might exist in your mind would be dissipated. Very Respectfully,
A. W. Thayer

State of Massachusetts } County of Hampshire } ss.
I, Jonathan P. Strong, a resident of Northampton, in the County and State aforesaid, aged fifty-eight years, being duly sworn according to law, do upon my oath declare, that I well remember, and well knew George Blackman, deceased, who at the time of his death was a resident of said Northampton, and whose widow, Phebe Blackman, now applies for a Pension; that I well knew the said Phebe Blackman, who is a sister of my father, Waitstill Strong, late of said Northampton, deceased; that I know the said Phebe was the wife of said George Blackman, and that she is now his widow; that I fully believe, and have never doubted, that said George Blackman was a soldier in the American Revolutionary War, - because I well remember having heard my father, at various times, speak of the said George Blackman, as having been a soldier of the Revolutionary War. I also well remember having heard from my said father, and from sundry other persons, that the said George Blackman came to said Northampton from some town, near Boston, Massachusetts, but do not remember the name of the town mentioned.
Jonathan P. Strong
Subscribed and duly sworn to before me, this seventh day of April, A. D. 1836.
Samuel Wells Justice of the Peace
I hereby certify that Jonathan P. Strong, whose name is subscribed to the foregoing affidavit, is well known to me;

that he is a credible person; and that his declarations, contained therein are entitled to credit. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand the day and year last before mentioned. Samuel Wells 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 Samuel Wells 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 Samuel Wells and believe his signature to said certificate is genuine:
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the Supreme Judicial Court, for said Commonwealth, this twelfth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty Six
Samuel Wells
Clerk.

Northampton Mass.
Nov. 8, 1835
Hon. J. Stuart
Sir
I now write, respectfully, to invite your attention to the case of Phebe Blackman, widow of George of Wapiti - being an application for Revolutionary Pension, under laws of 1833 &c. On the receipt of yours of Sept 14, 1835, I immediately proceeded to procure the required evidence, and forwarded the same to your office, within a few days thereafter, since which, I have received no communication on the subject. Having, as I trust, satisfactorily answered all requisitions for evidence, I cannot but hope to learn of a favorable result. The widow is very poor, and is in pressing need of any sum which the Department shall think proper to allow as her due.
Very Respectfully &c.
A. W. Thayer

May 28 th 1856
Phebe Blackman Widow of George Mass.
adm? July 7 1838 c 14 mo 76 dprn $484 2 a year from 4 th March 1836 to 2 yrs except d
sent to A. W. Shayer Esq Northampton Mass

Brief in the case of Phoebe Blackman Widow of George County and State of Mass act 15 July 7 1838 V c
Claim, ("original," for increase )
Proof exhibited, (if original.)
Is it documentary, traditional, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
Record evidence of service, with which her husband is identified upon the testimony of one witness who knows he served, various others who know of his reputation as a soldier, and by the fact that the soldier in the record enlisted in the town where it is shown her husband lived at that period, (If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
Record of marriage, cohabitation, general reputation of marriage, her identity as the soldier's widow, his death in 1807 and her present whereabouts, formed by credible witnesses.
Name and residence of Agent
A W Thayer Esq Northampton Mass
Thornton D. D. D. Examining Clerk.

Northampton Mass
Oct. 1, 1855
Hon. J. Mint.
Sir
Herewith I send you the Affidavit of the Town Clerks of Northampton, by which I trust you will be satisfied of the entire justice of the claim of Phebe Black- man for a Pension as the widow of "George Blackman Jr" a Revolu- tionary Soldier.
Very Respectfully &c
A. W. Thayer

188.744

Northampton Mass. July 12, 1885
Hon. L. P. Waldo
Sir
Herewith I send Application for Pension and also for Bounty Land from Phebe Blackmann, a widow of 94 years of age. I have taken great pains in this, as well as in the case of Beab , (sent a few days since) to have the proof made complete, and I trust that all will be satisfactory and sufficient. In both of these cases, delay is to be attributed to the ignorance of the widows of their rights, and destitution of intelligent friends to inform them, and to take the necessary steps. The soldiers both died from 40 to 50 years ago.
Respectfully, &c
Pension claim taken out
A. W. Thayer

Northampton Feb. 11-1856-
Hon. J. Minit,
Sir,
I have received yours of the 4 th instant in which you announce adherence to your previously declared adverse decision in the case of Phebe Blackman, widow of George Blackman, for Pension.
This case appears to me so very clear, and it involves so much of interest to the aged widow and incidentally to her poor and worthy grand-daughter, upon whom she depends for support and care, that I am not content to abandon it- while a possibility remains of convincing you of the justice of her claim. I trust, therefore, that you will be disposed to regard my importunity with all reasonable indulgence. At the same time, be assured, that firm considerations of respect towards yourself, not less than those of a high moral nature, I should be restrained from urging the allowance of any claim which I did not believe to be justly and rightfully due-
Previous to the receipt of your letter above referred to, I had received from your office, touching this case, four communications, dated, respectively, July 25. 1855- Sept. 14. 1855- Oct. 12. 1855- and January 3. 1856- I have looked them all over with much care, and so far as I am able to understand, and for aught that appears to me in any way to the contrary, I have fairly met, and fully answered and obviated every objection presented in those communications. If

I have evaded or fallen short in one instance, I am unconscious of the fact.
Your last communication contains the following sentence "The certificate of the Secretary of Massachusetts, sets forth but five days' service as lieutenant, and it might well have been that the person who served this short time in the militia as such, afterwards performed service in a lower grade,"
Now this, I suppose, I am warranted in regarding as the final objection on which the whole case rests. Consequently it remains for me to remove that objection, and I purpose to do so by showing in the first place, that the original certificate of the Secretary of Massachusetts credits Blackman with three terms of service, as Lieutenant, instead of "but one," viz: In 1776, 5 days, in 1778, 18 days, and in 1779, several days but how many I do not remember. Also, your communication dated Jan. 3, 1856, says, "The George Blackman of the certificate was a Lieutenant in 1776, 1778, and 1779." Of course the affirmation in yours of the 4 th inst. must be regarded as a mistake, and the objection, so far, as without foundation. In the second place, I answer the remark that "it might well have been that the person who served this short time in the militia as such, afterwards performed service in a lower grade," by saying, that it seems to me (and I respectfully ask you to consider the propriety and force of what I am saying) that after having proved that in the time of the Revolutionary War, there were but two persons known in the town of Houghton bearing the name of George Blackman viz: father and son ; after having proved (particularly by the supplementary certificate of the Secretary of Massachusetts) that the father served as a lieutenant,

while the son served as private; When all the attending circumstances go to show, that the latter rendered all the services as private , such as the payment at sundry times, of town bounties to the young man to a large amount for military services, - Contrasted with the entire absence of evidence that any money was ever paid as bounty to the father on account of his own brief term of service; the distinct testimony of the rolls, as shown by the certificate last mentioned, that on one occasion, when both the Blackmans happened to be in one and the same company, the father was designated "as Lieutenant," and the son "as Junior and private ." - added to the extreme improbability, that the father, at more than fifty years of age, after having held, and while still holding , a Lieutenant's Commission, (for according to the rolls, he served as a Lieutenant in 1777, - three years at least - after his first service in that capacity,) would voluntarily serve in the ranks as a private, while his son, from 18 to 20 years old remained at home; - and after having inclusively proved (see Billings' last affidavit,) that this George Blackman Jr. subsequently became a resident of Northampton, and was the husband of the late Phebe Blackman, who now applies for a pension; - I say after having shown and established all these facts and circumstances, it does seem to me that they ought to outweigh any supposition of possibility that the services attributed to the son, might have been rendered by the father; If the father rendered the services as private, I would respectfully ask, why did not the town pay him the bounty money which in that case, would have been his due? If the son did  not render those services, why did the town of Housatonic award and pay

to him large sum of bounty money expressly on the ground of his having rendered such services?
In conclusion I crave your indulgence yet farther, while I respectfully ask you once more to consider this case in the light of the evidence, and, as I doubt not you are predisposed to do, with a liberal view of the attending circumstances; In doubtful matters weighing probabilities rather than possibilities, as most likely to result in promoting the just and beneficent purposes of the law
With entire confidence in your disposition to decide with impartiality and justice,
I remain
Very respectfully &c
A. W. Thayer

Northampton, April 15, 1856
Hon. J. Mind- Sir
Having learned that you have not received any communication from me, touching the case of Phebe Blackman, subsequent to yours of the 4 th of February last, - I take the liberty of sending you, herewith, a copy of a letter, which I duly forwarded to your address, under date, Feb. 11 th 1856."
I also herewith forward the affidavit of Jonathan P. Strong of this town, in corroboration of previous testimony in behalf of Mrs. Blackman's claim
Very Respectfully &c
A. W. Thayer

Northampton, Mass Dec. 10, 1855.
Hon. J. Minot
Sir. — In reply to your communication, informing me that for reason given, the application of Phebe Blackman for Pension had been filed among rejected claims, I have respectfully to say, — That while I entirely approve the scrupulousness, and caution and faithfulness, which manifestly govern you in the discharge of your official duty to the Government, and would by no means seek to alter your determination of this case for other than what I supposed good and substantial reasons, — I am encouraged to believe that you entertain no disposition to withhold your sanction from claims, which you regard as fairly sustained. In making the following suggestions, I am very far from thinking to change your decision in the Blackman case, excepting by presenting matters for your consideration, which, under the pressure of business, you may have overlooked. Will you kindly indulge me, while I state the case as briefly as I may? Remark- ing, in advance, that I fully agree with you, that George Blackman Junior was too young, on the

14th of March, 1776, to have been a Lieutenant. My theory is this:—
George Blackman senior , who was then about 48 years old, was doubtless the person who served the 5 days as lieutenant ; while George Blackman junior , his son, rendered all the services as private . It is not fairly to be presumed, as I respectfully submit, that a man, who commenced service as a commissioned officer, would afterwards voluntarily go into the ranks, and serve as a private. The fact that George Blackman senior is not once referred to in the town records of Stoughton, as having rendered military service, is accounted for by the town clerk, who in a recent letter to me, says.— "The shortest time for which any bounty was paid, that I can find, was for 12 days at Castle Island, in 1777. If Mr. Blackman was in the service but 5 days, it is not to be expected that his name would be mentioned."
Now we have shown, I trust satisfactorily, that George Blackman, late of Northampton, the husband of Phebe Blackman, the applicant for a Pension, was the identical George Blackman, known in Stoughton, at the time of the Revolutionary War, as George Blackman junior . We have shown, also, that there were no other persons, bearing

The name of George Blackman, residing in that town, at the time referred to. It follows, therefore, as I humbly submit, that one of these two persons must have rendered the services as private , mentioned in the certificate of our Secretary of State, and in the records of the town of Houghton. Was it George Blackman, the father ? The fact of his having served, at the outset, as a commissioned officer , furnishes, as I think, a fair presumption in the negative. That he was a private soldier afterwards, there is no proof whatever. His name, as a soldier, is not once mentioned in all the town records. - And though there is no distinction of junior on the rolls, I submit that such a distinction would have been useless there , and not at all to be expected, where but one person of that name was in the company.
Was it George Blackman, the son ? I answer, with entire submission to your judgment, that I think it was ; - and in addition to the foregoing references to evidence, I submit, briefly, the following references to facts, in support of that position, - which facts are all duly certified, and on file in your office, viz: - The records of the town of Houghton show that George Blackman

Junior received a bounty of 15 pounds for 2½ months service in 1779; that George Blackman Junior received 60 pounds as bounty, for service under the Resolve of the General Court of February 28, 1781; that George Blackman Junior received as a balance of bounty due, 8 shillings for service in Rhode Island, in March, 1781; that to a petition of sundry Revolutionary Soldiers, the original of which is now on file in the clerk's office of the town of Stoughton, - which asks that taxes might be remitted, which were assessed on persons "who were absent from the town in the Continental Army, in the last six months service," the name of "George Blackman Junior " is written with his own hand; - and that in the said records, the following words appear, viz: - "Dec. 12, 1780. Town of Stoughton Dr. to George Blackman, the sum of 350 pounds, it being part of town note given to George Blackman Jr No. 199, dated July 1st 1780, which sum is endorsed on the note." And here I wish to call attention to the fact, that this note was dated in the same year (1780) in which the rolls give credit to Blackman for service, "6 months and 9 days."
Such being the facts, in proof of the claim of Mrs. Blackman, I respectfully ask a review of the case; and if in your judgment, the case has been so far substantially made out, as in your opinion to justify you in granting the

Pension which she asks, allow me to say, you will have the satisfaction, at least, of essentially relieving an excellent old woman, now nearly 95 years of age, and entirely dependant for her living upon a grand-daughter, who has no other means of support for herself and children, than what she earns with her needle. Mrs. B. is remarkably clear in her mind, and vigorous in body, considering her age, and shows such earnestness in her statements, and such a degree of confidence in the justice of her claim, as, it seems to me, could hardly fail to satisfy any person, who should see and hear her, that her husband must have been the man who is described in the documents presented and on file in your office.
I would not have troubled you with so protracted a statement and appeal, but for the very decided conviction on my mind, that you would, on a review of the case, become entirely satisfied of the justice of Mrs. Blackman's claim.
While asking your candid and patient consideration of this claim, and your indulgence for thus taxing your

time and attention,
I remain
Very Respectfully &c
A. W. Thayer

32,207
5 New lines

Thebe Packman
George ... Oct. - Dec 1838
FILED
Frank Christ Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

Department of the Interior, Pension Office, Official Business.
Chas Blackman George - Mar 1838
M. S. Mayer No. 275 St Corner 13 th

No 15,331.
Frank Blackman
202 George
Me
Lt. A. W. Thayer Feb 25/55
June 10/55
July 1/55
July 1/55
July 1/55
Lt. A. W. Thayer, Hobz 4/56

Official Business
FREE
Hon. L. P. Waldo Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.
Ms. A. 9. 2. 20. 11

96521 Massachusetts.
Phoebe Blackman. widow of George. who was a private. in the revolution
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 48 Dollars 42 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843.
Certificate of Pension issued the 28 th day of May 1856. and sent to
J. W. Thayer - Northampton - Mass.
[Acts of March 3, 1843, and June 17, 1844.]
Recorded in Book 76. Vol. 1 - Page 224.

1928 Dec 16 - Mrs. J. L. Crump advised cost of photos. MMN
Rev
WIDOW, &c.
File No. 14322
Phoebe Blackman Widow of George Blackman Ph. New War
Act: Feb 22 48
Index: Vol. A , Page 67
[Arrangement of 1870.]

15822
3-2233
BUREAU OF PENSIONS Finance Division
Dec. 13 1927
Chief Rev. and 1812 War Section Division.
I have this day received from Annette R. Hume check in the amount of $ 1 50 , requesting photostat copy as per letter herewith. check to be returned
Check returned Dec 16-1927
O. J. RANDALL
Chief, Finance Division.
266 L

Rev.&1812 Wars Section
Decem ber 16, 1927
Mrs. Joe L. Crump % Mrs. Chas. R. Hume Lock Box 158 Anadarko, Okla.
Madam:
I have to advise you that photostatic copies of papers on file in the Revolutionary War claims for pension and bounty land of Phebe Blackman, widow of George Blackman (Widow File No. 14322) will be furnished you under the provisions of the Act of August 24, 1912 at the rate of fifteen cents a page with twenty-five cents extra for certification if that be desired.
The number of pages to be copied is 42.
The proper amount should be forwarded to this Bureau by money order drawn to the order of the Secretary of the Interior (not to the Commissioner of Pensions).
This Bureau is unable to furnish the history of a soldier of the Revolution unless a claim for pension or bounty land has been made on account of his services, and a search of the records fails to show such a claim on file on account of the services of Ithamar Strong.
Herewith is returned your check for $1.50 drawn to the

order of the Commissioner of Pensions on the Anadarko National Bank of Oklahoma and numbered 3454.
Respectfully,
WINFIELD SCOTT Commissioner.

A. M. Thayer's letter of Nov. 8-1855
2 of Feb. 11-1856 (there are 3 alike)
Jan. 28-1856
July 12-1855
Oct 1-1855
Apr 15-1856
Dec. 10-1855 are all omitted from photos to Mrs. Joel L. Crump.
The blue + one white of Feb. 11-1856

Anadarko, Okla., Dec. 7, 1927.
Hon. Commissioner of Pensions:- Sir.
Check # 3454 $1.50 to be returned.
Twice have we asked for the pension record of Phebe (Strong) Blackman, who lived until 1858, her husband dying in 1807, after serving in Rev. War, as did her father Ithamar Strong, Sr. hence a descendant wishes to join on their records, especially getting family data from application of Phebe Strong Blackman, as there seems to be lacking as yet data on births of part of her issue.
Am enclosing check of Mrs. Hume for photostatic copy of pension record, and ask that this be mailed to her as soon as possible, as I am traveling and it might be lost in mails by my being gone so much. As they usually cost about $1.50 am sending that and if it costs more please inform me at once so balance may be sent to you. Her husband, George Blackman served from Stoughton, Mass. but Phebe belonged to the Northampton Mass. Strong family, but we fail to find names of part of their children as yet. Hoping for an early reply, I am,
Truly yours, Jessie Blevins Crump.
Mrs. Joe L. Crump, & Mrs. Chas. R. Hume, Anadarko Okla. L. Box 158.

ANADARKO, OKLA. Nov. 17/27
Hon. Commissioner of Pensions, Washington, D.C.
Sir:
About Oct. 12 th I mailed request to you for a copy of pension record of George Blackman of Northampton (or Stoughton ) Mass. whose widow Phebe Strong drew a pension many years, dying in 1858. George died 1807, and his father George is said to have served in Rev. War, and also the father of Phebe Strong, Ebenezer Strong of Northampton. Possibly Ebenezer who served was son of Ebenezer Strong, Sr.
But there seems no doubt from records sent by descendants that Phebe Strong Blackman was a pensioner, and your records will establish the truth of other statements. As I, her descendant, am at present traveling I ask that this record of hers be sent to Mrs. Joe L. Crump,
c/o Mrs. C.R. Hurne, RR Box 158
Anadarko, Okla.
I wish to join patriotic societies on lines above given. Thank you for early reply: perhaps my former letter did not reach you - or yours to me was lost - Mrs. Crump.

Anadarko, Okla., Oct. 12, 1927.
Hon. Commissioner of Pensions, Washington, D.C.
Sir:-
Having been informed that one of my ancestors drew a pension for many years I am writing to procure a copy of her application, and to learn if her father, Ithamar Strong also served in Rev. War. The Phoebe Strong born 1761 md. about 1785 one George Blackman, who served from Stoughton, Mass., and it is claimed that his father also served, Lieut. George Blaackman , same place. George, Jr. died 1807, but widow lived until 1858 , but do not know where she died, or exact date. Any information pertaining to her father, husband, and his father on file with you will be greatly appreciated by one now living in Texas, but desirous of joining patriotic societies. Hence I ask data on PHEBE STRONG BLACKMAN, who drew a pension after 1807, dying in 1858 . Probably born in Northampton, Mass., where her ancestors lived.
Trusting that I may have an early reply, and as I am traveling ask that reply be mailed to address below.
Yours truly,
Mrs. Joe L. Crump Lock Box 158, Anadarko, Okla. c Mrs. Hume.
Jessie B. Crump.

Northampton, Mass Jan. 28, 1836
Hon. Josiah Minot Sir
Your communication of the 3 d inst. was duly received, announcing that the evidence then presented in behalf of Phebe Blackman's claim for a pension was unsatisfactory. In reply, I have respectfully to say, that I have procured additional evidence, which I herewith transmit to you, and which I feel confident will at once dispel every remaining doubt on your mind, touching this subject.
In reference to what I understand to be your suggestion, that the payment to George Blackman of 350 pounds, in part of a Note, given to George Blackman Jr. constitutes evidence against my assumption of the service of the latter, and that it shows, on the contrary, that the former was the person who rendered the service, I am compelled, but with entire respect, to say, that I do not see how it can reasonably bear that construction. For, in the first place, I contended, that the rolls (according to the original certificate of our Secretary of State) taken in connection with the evidence of payment of bounty money to George Blackman Jr. and with the fact, that there is no direct evidence of bounty money having been allowed to George Blackman senior, affords strong presumption, at least, that George

Blackman Jr. rendered all the service as private . In the second place, the fact, that George Blackman, the father , received 350 pounds in part of "a town note, given to George Blackman Jr." is, as I respectfully submit, rationally accounted for, without the necessity of supposing him at all entitled to money from the town, on the ground of his own personal service, by considering the fact, that his son , George Blackman Jr. to whom the note was given , was at that time, a minor, less than 19 years of age ; and of course, that the father was legally entitled to receive the money due on that Note. To make the case more clear, I have herewith forwarded an affidavit from the Clerk of the town of Stoughton, showing from the records, that the balance of 300 pounds due on that note, was actually paid to George Blackman Jr.
In reference to your remark, that "the George Blackman of the Certificate was a Lieutenant in 1776, 1778, and 1779," allow me to repeat, in substance, a suggestion, contained in my last previous communication to you, — that it is hardly to be presumed that any man — especially one at the ages of from 48 to 53 years, — after serving in the military, as a commissioned officer, would voluntarily go into, and serve in the ranks, unless the evidence of the fact was irresistible; which, I suppose, will not in this instance be assumed. But, fortunately, we are now furnished with proof, which will, as

I trust, satisfactorily explain this point. By the certificate of the Secretary of State, herewith transmitted, you will see, that in one instance, (which seems to have been overlooked in the former certificate) the father and son both served in one instance, (which seems to have been overlooked in the former certificate) the father and son both served in one company, the first as Lieutenant , and the last as private ; and hence the distinction of junior in this instance. But in other cases, it does not appear that more than one person of the name of George Blackman was enrolled in the same company, and hence there was no such distinction attached to the name, - clearly, because unnecessary.
In reply to your remarks, touching the lack of evidence of identity, I would respectfully say, that were I to show any amount of mere "traditions of the town," concerning a matter, gone by some seventy or eighty years, I could hardly hope to avail anything thereby, in a department of the Government, where stringent rules of evidence are (very properly, I admit) applied to all claims presented for its consideration. But, in the second place, we are not left to the uncertain light of tradition. The affidavit of Simon the Billings, is, I submit, direct, and to the point. He is a clear-headed, vigorous old man, and speaks of what he absolutely knows to be facts, within his own experience and memory.
Upon the whole, I submit the accompanying evidence, in connection with that already in

your proposition, to your candid and careful consideration, - not doubting that you will arrive at the same conclusion with myself, - that Phebe Blackman has substantiated her claim to a pension, as the widow of George Blackman, who rendered service as a private, in the Revolutionary War, as certified by our Secretary of State.
Very Respectfully, &c
A. W. Thayer
P.S. Allow me to call your attention to the fact, that according to the Secretary's certificate of the 26 th instant, George Blackman, as private , should be allowed for 18 days, in addition to what is certified in the original certificate, - that service, as you will see, having, by mistake, been omitted in the certificate last above recurred.

Northampton, Mass. Feb. 11 th 1856
Hon. J. Minot Sir
I have received yours of the 14 th inst. in which, very much to my disappointment, you announce adherence to your previously declared adverse decision in the case of Phebe Blackman, widow of George Blackman, for Pension.
This case appears to me so very clear, and it involves so much of interest to the aged widow, and incidentally, to her poor and worthy grand-daughter, upon whom she depends for support and care, that I am not content to abandon it, while a possibility remains, of convincing you of the justice of her claim. I trust, therefore, that you will be disposed to regard my importunity with all reasonable indulgence. At the same time, be assured, that from considerations of respect towards yourself, not less than those of a high moral nature, I should be restrained from urging the allowance of any claim, which I did not believe to be justly and rightfully due.
Previous to the receipt of your letter above referred to, I had received from your office, touching this case, four communications, dated, respectively, July 25, 1855, Sept. 14, 1855, Oct. 12, 1855, and January 3, 1856. I have looked them all over, with care, and, so far as I am able to understand, and for aught that appears in any

way to the contrary, I have fairly met, and fully answered and obviated every objection, presented in these communications. If I have evaded, or fallen short in one instance, I am ignorant of the fact.
Your last communication, contains the following sentence: — "The certificate of the Secretary of Massachusetts sets forth but five days' service as Lieutenant, and it might well have been that the person who served this short time in the militia as such, afterwards performed service in a lower grade."
Now this, I suppose I am warranted in regarding as the final objection, on which the whole case rests. Consequently, it remains for me to remove that objection. And I propose to do so, by saying, in the first place, that the original certificate of the Secretary of Massachusetts credits Blackman with three terms of service, instead of "but one", viz: In 1776, 5 days, in 1778, 18 days, and in 1779, several days, but how many, I do not remember. Also, your communication, dated January 3, 1836, says, " The George Blackman of the certificate was a Lieutenant in 1776, 1778, and 1779. " Of course the affirmation in yours of the 4 th inst. must be regarded as a mistake; and the objection, so far, as without foundation. In the second place, I answer the remark, that "it might well have been that the person who served this short time in the militia as such, afterwards performed service in a lower grade," by saying, that it seems to me (and I respectfully ask you to consider the propriety and

force of what I am saying) that after having proved that in the time of the Revolutionary War, there were but two persons , known in the town of Houghton, bearing the name of George Blackman - father and son ; after having proved (particularly by the supplement to any certificate of the Secretary of Massachusetts) that the father served as Lieutenant, while the son served as private; when all the attending circumstances go to show, that the latter rendered all the services as private - such as the payment at sundry times, of town bounties to the young man, to a large amount, for military services, contrasted with the entire absence of evidence, that any bounty money was ever paid as bounty to the father, on account of his own brief terms of service; the distinct testimony of the Rolls, as shown by the certificate last mentioned, that on one occasion, when both the Blackmans happened to be in one and the same company, the father was designated "as Lieutenant," and the son, " as Jr. and private " - added to the extreme improbability, that the father, at more than fifty years of age, after having held, and while still holding , a Lieutenant's commission, (for according to the Rolls, he served as a Lieutenant in 1779 - three years, at least, after his first service in that capacity) would voluntarily serve in the ranks as a private, while his son, from 18 to 20 years of age, remained at home; - and after having conclusively proved that this identical George Blackman Junior subsequently became a resident of Northampton, and was the husband of Phebe Blackman, who

now applies for a pension; - I say, after having shown and established all these facts and circumstances, - it does seem to me, that they ought to outweigh any supposition of a bare possibility that the services attributed to the son, might have been rendered by the father. If the father rendered the services as private, why did not the town pay him the bounty money, which in that case would have been his due? If the son did not render those services, why did the town of Houghton award and pay him large sums of bounty money, expressly on the ground of his having rendered such services ?
In conclusion, I crave your indulgence yet farther, while I respectfully ask you, once more to consider this case in the light of the evidence, and, as I doubt not, you are pre-disposed to do - with a liberal view of the attending circumstances, - weighing probabilities , rather than possibilities , as most likely to result in promoting the just and beneficent purposes of the law. With entire confidence in your disposition to decide with impartiality and justice, - I remain,
Very Respectfully &c
A. W. Hayer
P.S. I take the liberty of again reminding you, that, according to the last certificate of the Sec'y of State, 18 days as private , should be added to that previously certified

State of Massachusetts } County of Hampshire } ss
I, Alexander Wright, aged seventy eight years, a resident of the town of Northampton, in the County and State aforesaid, being duly sworn according to law, do upon my oath declare, that in the month of April, of the present year, 1835, having been instrumental in discovering evidence in favor of the claim of heirs of a Revolutionary soldier, who till then were unaware of the availability or existence of such evidence, and having a slight impression on my mind that George Blackman of Northampton, in said County and State, deceased, whom I well knew, was a soldier in the American Revolutionary War, and as his Widow, Phebe Blackman, now and always a resident of said Northampton, is a family relative of mine, and in view of her present impoverished condition, - I was induced to call upon her for the purpose of making inquiries, which might lead to the discovery of evidence, requisite to the establishment of her claim to a Pension as the Widow of said George Blackman. I inquired of her, whether her husband was a soldier in the Revolutionary War, and her answer was, "My husband told me he was out in

the Revolution." I asked her what he said about it. She answered, that her husband "never said much about it;" that the most she heard him say, was, "that he was a soldier, in the Revolutionary War." I also declare, that at the time aforesaid, in answer to a question asked her in my presence and hearing, Why she did not before apply for a Pension, - she said, - "I didn't stand in need of it." And this she evidently said as I thought, and still believe, under the supposition that she was not entitled to a pension unless so destitute as to be obliged to ask for public charity. And I further declare that from my knowledge of said Phebe Blackman - she being a high-spirited woman, - I do not believe she would ever have applied for a Pension, with the impression she had on the subject, had she been possessed of the means of subsistence without the aid of her friends, as she has been until within a few years last past. And I also declare that said Phebe Blackman is apparently in possession of all her mental faculties as fully as ever before, within my remembrance. I also declare, as of my own knowledge, that the children of said Phebe Blackman were all daughters, only two of whom are now living, and that the property of said Phebe was entrusted.

to her married daughters, and in that way was expended and lost. And I further declare that I am disinterested Alexander Spright
Subscribed and duly sworn to before me, this thirty-first day of July, A. D. 1855
A. W. Thomas Justice of the P.
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS.
HAMPSHIRE SS.
I, Samuel Wells Clerk of the Judicial Courts of the Commonwealth, for the County of Hampshire, do certify, that Abijah W. Hayer 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 Abijah W. Hayer - and believe his signature to said certificate is genuine:
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the Supreme Judicial Court, for said Commonwealth, this fourth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty five.
Samuel Wells
Clerk.

to her married daughters, and in that way was expended and lost. And I further declare that I am disinterested Alexander Wright
Subscribed and duly sworn to before me, this thirty-first day of July, A. D. 1855
A. W. Thayer, Justice of the Peace
It is hereby certified that the above named Alexander Wright is well known to me; that he is a credible person; and that the foregoing declaration, by him subscribed, is entitled to credit. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand the day and year last above written
A. W. Thayer Justice of the Peace

State of Massachusetts } County of Hampshire } ss
I, Phebe Blackman, aged ninety four years, a resident of the town of Northampton, in the County and State aforesaid, being duly sworn according to law, do upon my oath make the following declaration; — That I am the widow of George Blackman, late of said Northampton, deceased, who was a soldier of the United States in the American Revolutionary War, and that I am now an applicant for a Pension as his widow; that said George Blackman died A.D. 1807; that from him I derived information of the fact of his having served in said War; that through being thus possessed of the knowledge of said fact, I was never informed, and never knew that I was entitled to a Pension on account of said service, while I possessed the means of supporting myself, until I was informed within the present year, 1855, by Alexander Wright, a resident of said Northampton, of the probability that I was thus entitled,

without reference to my pecuniary condition; and that I did not then believe it possible to obtain the evidence, necessary to prove my supposed claim, owing to the length of time since my husband's death, and also owing to the death of most of those who had any knowledge of him; that among all the persons who knew him in said Northampton, Isaac Sheldon, whose deposition is now on file in the Pension Office, is the only person who remembers to have heard my husband speak of his revolutionary services; and no pension law, which could be available to him, being then in existence, there was little occasion to speak of them; and hence, that when the act of 1832 was passed, I was not recognized or known as the widow of a revolutionary soldier, especially as my husband's native place was in a distant town, and his surviving relatives residents there, and I was personally almost entirely unknown to them. I also declare, that according to my best recollection, I have never mentioned to either of my children — being all daughters — the fact of their father having been

a revolutionary soldier; neither do I believe that they were possessed of that knowledge until within the last few months; and I also declare, that until within a short time, I have had sufficient pecuniary means for support, and hence, my friends have had no special motive to inquire concerning any interest I might be supposed to have had in the provisions of said act of Congress, - while, for the reason already herein stated, I did not suppose I was by law entitled to a pension. And I further declare, that I have no knowledge of my husband having been an officer in the Revolutionary War, excepting what I derive from the Certificate of the Secretary of the State of Massachusetts, now on file in the Pension Office; and that I have not in possession any other evidence on that subject.
Rebecca Blackman
Subscribed and duly sworn to before me, this second day of August, A.D. 1855
A. W. Thayer, Justice of the Peace.

It is hereby certified that the before named Phebe Blackman is well known to me; that she is a credible person; and that the foregoing declaration by her subscribed is entitled to credit. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand the day and year last before written
A. W. Hayer, Justice of the Peace