Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 6909, Joel Chaffee, Conn.

SERVICE
NUMBER
born
Chaffee, Joel or Chafe
W. 6909
B.L.Wt. 26046-160-55-
Eleanor
CONTENTS

2945 Connecticut
Job Chase of Hartford in the State of Connecticut who was a Private in the Company commanded by Captain Young of the Regt. commanded by Col. Canfield in the Contl line for 12 Months
Inscribed on the Roll of Connecticut at the rate of 40 Dollars cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 28 day of June 1833 and to M rs Eliza Chase Sharon Ct. St. Asaph
Arrears to the 4th of March 32 $ 80 Pension allowance ending Sep 33 20 $ 100
Revolutionary Claim, } Act June 7, 1832. } Recorded by G. C. Stiles Clerk, Book C Vol. 3 Page 8

503 Connecticut Eleanor Chaffe, widow of Paul Chaffe Con t who served in the Revolutionary war, as a Private
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 40 Dollars 00
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848. 30 February 1853
Certificate of Pension issued the 26 th day of May 1853 and sent to
Chas. H. Sedgewick Sharon Ct.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act July 29. 1848, Page 58. Vol. A
1832
Key 3 rd Mar 55-160481-

Rev. Almainant Vol. 4786
Vol. 61-105
Act 1853 Sec 6/55
Deacon Chaffee M. dow of Dad Chaffee.
Claim in Pension Act July 8 th 1853 Refers to Pension on file
Vermon
Rev. War. H.C. line.
Conn Feb 53-503
Ad 160 acs May 14/56 B. B. B.
Chas. F. Sedgwick.
Almainant Sharon Conn

State of Connecticut, District of Sharon ss. Court of Probate March 11. A D 1833.
An a board of Probate for the district of Sharon held at Salisbury in said district on the 11. day of March A D 1833. Present.
Samuel Church Esq. Judge.
On this 11. day of March A D 1833 Personally appeared open court before the board of Probate for the district of Sharon in the County of Litchfield & State aforesaid, the same being a Court of Record now sitting Joel Chase a resident of the Town of Sharon in the County aforesaid and in the district aforesaid, a free person three years who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath make the following state- ments in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress passed June 7. 1832.
That he entered the service of the United States in one of the following named offices and served as herein stated.
I was born in the said town of Sharon on the 3 rd day of July 1759. I have no record of my age nor do I know of any until perhaps it may be on the record of said town.
I resided in said Sharon when called into service and leave soon after the Revolutionary war ended in said town where there was.
In the month of February A D 1776 in the early part of said month I enlisted as a Private into a company

of Connecticut State Troops, commanded by Capt. David Downs, Lieut. Adonaijah Griswold, Second Lieut. David Doty and a Ensign Samuel Johnson all of said Sharon enlisted for one year, and served under the aforesaid officers as a private for nine months wanting about five days and for their service I claim a pension. We marched from said Sharon to Albany and there we were mustered in the fore part of the said month of February; from Albany we marched to Lake George and from there we marched to St Johns. I was employed there doing Garrison duty a while, Col. Butlers Regiment came soon after to St Johns & I staid awhile & then left & was awhile after taken prisoner. Capt. Downs & a part of our company went with Col. Butler & was taken prisoner with him but some few with Lieut. Griswold remained at St Johns. From St Johns we marched to La Prairie, and then to a place called Fort Ann on the River St Lawrence. The Col of our Regiment was Col. Charles Pernell of Canaan. We came back to La Prairie and built a fort there, from thence to Montreal, & from thence to Churubusco, there I had the small pox, then we came again to St Johns. In the month of October of the same year I was taken sick and left the Army on a furlough and came home, this furlough was signed by Majr. John Sedgewick who was Major of our Regiment. Lieut. Col. Nathaniel Buel was our Lieut. Colonel but was not with us when I left. I afterwards

had a discharge signed by Dr. Potter one of the Chief Surgeons of the Army. I kept this discharge many years, but it is now lost. I served nine months nearly as aforesaid tho' I enlisted for a year. Having left the army by reason of sickness, as aforesaid I served under the officers named above. I think Genl. Scrymgeour had Chief Commanded. There were other Colonels there, some called Jersey Blues; and in the latter part of the season two lieutenants from Connecticut came up here. I was at Mount Independence when I received my furlough we had quiet seasons there. I was no battle during this time. I have no documentary evidence & I know of no other evidence by which my service can be proved than such as I have herewith transmitted this being the best evidence in my power to obtain.
Again in the month of December 1775 I enlisted as a volunteer as a Private for three months into a Company of Connecticut State troops, commanded by Capt. Amos Chaplin, Lieut. David Dosee I think, and David Whittelsey Ensign. We belonged to Col. Samuel Mansfield's Regiment of New Milford, Lieut. Col. S. S. S. and I don't remember the name of the Major. In all these services I served for three months & for this service I also claim a pension. We marched through New Milford to Byram Bridge & Saw Pits, we were employed in keeping guard in that vicinity. When my time expired I was taken sick & did not get home before my sickness until two or three weeks after my

term of service expired, so that I was in fact necessarily out on this line three months and one half. I was in no battle, had no written discharge, have no documentary evidence. I know of no other proof of this service than the evidence herewith transmitted, this being the best evidence in my power to obtain. I don't remember the other troops with us but there were other troops near White Plains, I think they belonged to the New York line. I was in no battle.
Again, in the month of June 1777 when Burgoyne was coming down, I was drafted as a private into a company of Connecticut Militia commanded by Capt John Pym, Lieut Conkling & Ensign Seth Pierce I think but perhaps Pierce was Lieut & Conkling Ensign. We marched up to the North River near or quite to where the City of Troy now is; we were soon after detached to watch the river & prevent their dispositions some miles east of Troy. We were employed on this service four weeks. We did not join any regiment that I know of & I served under the above named Officers for the term aforesaid. In this service I claim a pension. I was in no battle, have no documentary evidence, never recd any discharge, & know of no other living witnesses than the evidence herewith transmitted by which I can prove this service, this being the best evidence in my power to procure.

I hereby renounce every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present and declare that my name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any State.
I also state that I was once placed on the pension roll under the act of March 18. 1818 & was dropped therefrom on account of property, the evidence of which is now in the War Department. I believe I did not at the time of applying for that pension attempt to prove more than nine months service nor can I prove that I stated in my application a longer term of service than the first term of service here in before but I felt that and if I did not it was because under the act of 1818 it was not considered necessary to make further proof.
I am known to Hon John Cotton Smith, Hon Amos Sterling, Samuel E. Coventry Esq. Rev. Frederick Judson, Rev David L. Perry and many others in said town of Sharon in my neighborhood who can testify to my character for veracity after belief of my service as a soldier of the revolution.
Sworn to & subscribed the day & year aforesaid Samuel Church (Jr)

And this Court, with hardly dispute in opinion after the investigation of the matter and after putting the testimony which presented by the War Department that the above named Applicant was a revolutionary soldier there as he states, and the Court further believes that it appears to said Court that Rev. Frederick Gredley who has signed one of the affidavits herewith annexed is a clergy man residing in the said town of Sharon, and is a noble person and his statement is entitled to credit.
And the said Joss Chafee also in support of his said application pronounced to this Court the Affidavit of Dae Chamberlain of said Sharon who known to this Court to be a highly respectable person & a deacon of the Church in said Sharon sworn before Jacob Chamberlain Esq and herewith annexed and this Court certifies that the certificate annexed to said Affidavit is signed by the said Jacob Chamberlain Esq in his own proper hand writing, and that the said Jacob Chamberlain Esq is a justice of the Peace within and for said County of Dutchess.
And the said Joss Chafee also pronounced the Affidavits Rev. Frederick Gredley, John Lord, Elizabeth Everett & Isaiah Everett all of said Sharon and all credible persons taken & sworn before Samuel E. Everett Esq. and the Court certifies that the several Affidavits

whereas the said Affiants are signed & sealed by the said Samuel E. Greville Esq. in her own proper hand writing, and that the said Samuel E. Greville is known to her Lord to be the person whose been a history of the Peace within and for the said county of Middlesex. By the court
Samuel Greville Esq.
I Abigail Peet Clerk of the Court of Probate for the District of Sharon do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of Mr Joel Chaplin for a pension In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of Office this 11 day of March A.D. 1893.
Abigail Peet Clerk

Paul Chaffin
1 May 1820.
Conn.
(Sept 1820)

Original Claim.
Declaration, in order to be placed on the Pension List, under the Act of the 18th of March, 1818.
County of Litchfield ss. Superior Court. February term. A.D. 1829.
On this eighteenth day of February 1829, personally appeared in open Court, being a Court of Record for the County aforesaid, Joel Chaffee.
resident in said County, aged 69 years; who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the provision made by the acts of Congress of the 18th of March, 1818, 1st of May, 1820, and 1st of March, 1823; and that the said Chaffee
enlisted for the term of one year on the day of February in the year 1776 — in the State of Connecticut in the company commanded by captain David Downs in the regiment commanded by colonel Burrall in the line of the State of Connecticut on the
continental establishment; that he continued to serve in said corps until about Jan. 1 st 1777. when he was discharged from the service, in Ticonderoga, in the State of New York that he hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension,
except the present; that his name is not on the roll of any State, except Connecticut; and that the following are the reasons for not making earlier application for a pension; viz: that under the act of Congress of the 18 th of March A.D. 1818 he made application to the proper authority to be placed on the pension list, which application was duly granted & a certificate of his having been inscribed on the pension list role of the Connecticut agency was issued from the war department of the date of May 10 th 1820. & registered as appears by an endorsement on said certificate in Book 13 th Vol 3 rd Page 63 But that considering himself as not entitled to a pension under the act of 1818, he made no further application But under the recent act of 1820, I do solemnly swear that I was a resident citizen
of the United States on the 18th day of March, 1818, and that I have not, since that time, by gift, sale, or in any manner disposed of my property, or any part thereof, with intent thereby so to diminish it as to bring myself within the provisions of an act of Congress, entitled "An act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the Revolutionary War," passed on the 18th day of March, 1818; and that I have not, nor has any person in trust for me, any property, or securities, contracts, or debts, due to me: nor have I any income, other than what is contained in the schedule hereto annexed, and by me subscribed.
That as it relates to my occupation, my ability to pursue it, the number and names of my family residing with me, their ages and their capacity to contribute to their support, I declare as follows, viz. My wife is of the age of sixty years. my children are all married but one daughter who is of the age of thirty. my trade is that of a joiner and carpenter & more recently a farmer; my health is such that I am able to labour but a small part of the time.
The following schedule contains each article of real and personal estate now owned by the subscriber (except necessary clothing and bedding), viz.
  20 acres of land including buildings $ 800.   5 acres of meadow land 200.   3 acres Woodland 36.   1 colt two years old 50.   2 cows 42.   1 yearling heifer 6.   10 sheep 14.   1 swine 6.   1 kettle 3.50   857.50 

Since the 18th of March, 1818, the following changes have been made in my property.
   Description of property. Names of persons to whom disposed of. Time of sale. Amount of money or description of property received in return.     30 acres of land Joel S Chaffee Febr. 1829. 8,620. The purchaser paid the money for which the   6 acres of woodland Ditto - - Febr. 1829 land was sold to several persons, to whom I was justly indebted as follows:-   This piece of land was estimated at- 8 48. Julia Chaffee $ 2 50.   6 20 Charles Brown 2 00   6 68. Betsey Ann Chaffee 33.   Ellsworth South 1 50.   Lucy Chaffee 70.   6 83.   Joel Chaffee.  
Sworn to and declared, on the 18 th day of February 1829 before the said Superior Court.
I Frederick Wolcott Clerk of the Superior Court in the county of Litchfield and state of Connecticut, do hereby certify that it appears to the satisfaction of the Court, that the said Joel Chaffee did serve in the Revolutionary War, as stated in the preceding declaration, against the common enemy, for the term of nine months, under one engagement, on the continental establishment. I also certify that the foregoing oath, and the schedule thereto annexed, are truly copied from the records of the said Court; and I do further certify, that it is the opinion of the said Court, that the total amount in value of the property exhibited in the aforesaid schedule is
857- dollars and 50 cents.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said Court, on this 18 th day of February A. D. 1829.
Clerk of Court, Frederick Wolcott, Clerk of the Superior Court County of Litchfield

At a Court of Prolocute holden at Sharon in aid for the District of Sharon on the 21 st day of March D 1853. Daniel Parsons Esq. the judge of said Court being absent from this state said Court was holden by
Frederick Kellogg Esq. judge of the adjoining District of Conniesville - he having been duly designated and cited to that duty by the Clerk of said Court for said District of Sharon according to the Statute in such cases made and provided -
Before said Court, holden as aforesaid personally appeared Mrs. Delmer Chepper of Sharon affirmed, and being duly sworn, doth on her oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefits of the act of Congress of February 8. 1853. Section 2 nd .
That she is the widow of Joel Chepper late of said Sharon, deceased, that she was duly married to him on the 20 th day of September A. 1813. That he died at said Sharon on the 17 th day of February A 1844. That she is still a widow, having never intermarried since the death of the said Joel.
That the said Joel Chepper was a Pensioner of the United States under the act of June 7, 1832 and served in the War of the Revolution, as set forth in his Declaration, nor on file in the Pension Office under said Act.
She refers to the Proof sheet accompanying said Declaration which is also on file in said Office, and to the evidence herewith transmitted for testimony.

of her claim for a Pension under the Act aforesaid
Eleanor Chaffee Sworn & submitted in open court
Attest
Frederick Kellogg
Acting Judge
State of Connecticut District of New Haven.
I Charles F. Sedgwick Clerk of the Court of Probate for the District aforesaid do hereby certify that the foregoing are the proceedings of said Court in the matter of the application of Eleanor Chaffee for a Pension
Witness my hand, and the seal of said Court at New Haven in said District this 23 rd day of March 1853
Chas F. Sedgwick Clerk
Eleanor Chaffee

Eleanor Chaffee
1604181

State of Connecticut
County of Litchfield ss
On this 22 nd day of May A.D. one thousand eight hundred and fifty five, personally appeared before me a justice of the Peace within and for the County of Litchfield, Eleanor Chaffee a resident of Sharon in the State of Connecticut, who being duly sworn and in to law declared, that she is a widow of Joel Chaffee, deceased, who was in private in the War of the Revolution, that her said husband, Joel Chaffee deceased, served in the War, and at the time set forth in her application under the Act of 1832 - that she is now a pensioner of the United States in virtue of her being the widow of the said Joel Chaffee. That her Primary Warrant is numbered 5037 that she was married to the said Joel Chaffee at the time specified in her application for a Primary under the Act of Feb. 1833. That her name before her said marriage was Eleanor Horn, that her said husband died at his home on the 18 th day of February A.D. 1844. and that she is now a widow -
She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the bounty due to which she may be entitled under the Act of March 3. 1835 - her
Eleanor X Chaffee mark
We - Joel S. Chaffee and Clarissa Hunt Residents of Sharon in the State of Connecticut upon our oaths declare that the foregoing decla- ration was signed and acknowledged in our presence by Eleanor Chaffee therein sworn, that we were well acquainted with the said Joel Chaffee during his lifetime and we know that he is now deceased, that he was a pensioner of the

United States - That we know that the said William Chapman is the widower of the said Jane and that she is the identical person who represents herself to be
Jane S. Chapman Clara Everett
The foregoing declaration with affidavits have soon been submitted before me on the day and year above written - and I certify that I know the affidavits to be credible persons. That the claimant is the person who represents herself to be and that I have no interest in their claims.
Chas. F. Dodge Clerk of the District Court

State of Connecticut, County of Litchfield, } ss. LITCHFIELD.
I, Henry B. Graves
Clerk of the County Court
in and for the County and State above mentioned, do hereby certify that Charles H.
Sedgwick Esq.
whose genuine signature appears to the accompanying instrument,
is and was, at the time of signing the same a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid, duly elected and sworn, and by law authorized to administer Oaths, and to take the acknowledgment of Deeds; and that all his official acts, as such, are entitled to full faith and credit; and that the aforesaid County Court is a Court of Record, having general jurisdiction.
Given under my hand and the seal of said Court at Litchfield, this 20 day of June A. D. 185 5 .
Henry B. Graves
CLERK.

N o 645
Eleanor Chaffee widow of Joel
Ct
Act 3 Feb 1853
for her annuity Comm'g 3 Feb 1853
Chas T. Sedgwick Sharon Ct

Abigail Fuller of Kent in the County of Litchfield and State of Connecticut, being duly sworn, depose, and say, that she is the Clerk or Scribe of the Congregational Church in said Kent, and has the custody of the Records of said Church - That under the head of Marriages there is an entry in the word following -
"September, eighteen hundred thirteen, Joel Chaplin of Ellsworth and Eleanor Munn" That the foregoing is a true copy of the original entry with the exception of the date, which is expressed in plain legible figures, as follows - "Sept. 1813." Joel Chaplin of Ellsworth & Eleanor Munn.
And further says not -
State of Connecticut } Abigail Fuller County of Litchfield }
On this 16 day of March 1853, personally appeared Abigail Fuller, who signed the foregoing affidavit and made solemn oath to the same before me, and I further certify that said Fuller is a credible witness -
William Root Justice of the Peace

Joel S. Chepper of Sharon in the County of Simsbury and State of Connecticut, being duly sworn, depose and say, that he is a son of the late Joel Chepper, of said Sharon, in the parish of Connecticut, by his first wife. That he is of the age of forty nine years, and has lived from his birth in the family of the said Chepper, and his widow. That he well remembers the marriage of his said Father to Mrs. Eleanor Hart of Kent in September 1813 - That the said Eleanor still survives, in the the family of their Deposant, and is still the widow of the said Joel Chepper, having never intermarried since his decease - The said Joel departed this life on the 17 th day of February A.D. 1844 - After the marriage of the said Joel & Eleanor and during his life they lived together as husband and wife - For a number of years previous to his decease the said Joel was a pensioner at the rate of forty Dollars per annum or thereabouts, the exact sum their Deposant does not remember - And further say not - Joel S. Chepper
State of Connecticut Simsbury County ss
Personally appeared Joel S. Chepper who signed the foregoing affidavit in my presence and made oath to the truth of the same before me - And I further certify that said Joel S. Chepper is a credible witness
Chas. F. Sedgwick Justiciary the Peace

No 2 1/2 full chafe connected
Schutt
P. water 12 m
Aug 1818
drop the form

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office,
183
Sir:
The evidence in support of your claim, under the act of June 7, 1832, has been examined, and the papers are herewith returned. The following is a statement of your case in a tabular form. On comparing these papers with the following rules, and the subjjoined notes, you will readily perceive that objections exist, which must be removed, before a pension can be allowed. The notes and the regulations will shew what is necessary to be done. Those points to which your attention is more particularly directed, you will find marked in the margin with a brace, (thus: { ). You will, when you return your papers to this Department, send this printed letter with them; and you will, by complying with this request, greatly facilitate the investigation of your claim.
A Statement, shewing the Service of Joel Chafee, of Sharon Connecticut
   Period when the service was rendered. Duration of the claimant's service Rank of the claimant. Names and rank of the Field officers under whom he served. Age at present, and place of abode when he entered the service. Proof by which the declaration is supported.   Years. Months. Days.     Enlisted 1776 9 28 Private Capt David Downs Sharon Connecticut Traditionary & Living Witness   Vol 1776 3 Colo Saml Canfield Aged 73   Drafted 1777 28 Capt Bro Payne  
I am, respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
J. L. EDWARDS,
Commissioner of Pensions.

REGULATIONS UNDER THE ACT OF JUNE 7, 1832.
The following regulations have been adopted:
This law has been construed to extend, as well to the line, as to every branch of the Staff of the Army, and to include under the terms "Continental Line," "State troops," "militia," and "volunteers," all persons enlisted, drafted, or who volunteered and who were bound to military service, but not those who were occasionally employed with the army upon civil contracts, such as Clerks to Commissaries and to Store Keepers, &c., Teamsters, Boatmen, &c. Persons who served on board of private armed vessels are also excluded from the benefits of the law, as well as persons who turned out as patrols, or were engaged in guarding particular places at night, and were not recognized as being in actual military service.
Four general classes of cases are embraced in this law:
 1. The Regular Troops.  2. The State Troops, Militia, and Volunteers.  3. Persons employed in the Naval Service.  4. Indian Spies. 
As rolls of the regular troops in the Revolutionary War exist in this Department, all persons claiming the benefit of this law as officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians or privates, will, in the first instance, make application by transmitting the following declaration, which will be made before a Court of Record of the County where such applicant resides. And every Court having by law a seal and Clerk is considered a Court of Record.
DECLARATION,
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress of the 7th of June, 1832.
State, Territory, or District of } ss. County of }
On this day of personally appeared (a) before A. B. a resident (b) of in the county of and State, Territory or District of aged (c) 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 7th, 1832. That he enlisted in the Army of the United States in the year (d), with and served in the (e) regiment of the line, under the following named officers:
[Here set forth the names and rank of the Field and Company Officers; the time he left the service; (and if he served under more than one term of enlistment, he must specify the particular period, and rank and names of his officers;) the town or county and State in which he resided when he entered the service; the battles, if any, in which he was engaged, and the country through which he marched. This form is to be varied so as to apply to the cases of officers and persons who belonged to the militia, volunteers, navy, &c.]
He hereby relinquishes every claim (f) 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.
A. B.
[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion (g) that the above named applicant was a revolutionary soldier, and served as he states.
I of the Court of do hereby certify (h) that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office (i) this day of &c.
If, on examination of the proper record, the names of applicants, making such declaration, cannot be found, they will produce such proof as the rule given in note (j) points out.
Every applicant who claims a pension by virtue of service in the State Troops, Volunteers or Militia, except those who belonged to the New Hampshire Militia and State Troops of Virginia, will make and subscribe a declaration similar to the foregoing, with the following additions, viz:
(k) We, A. B., a Clergyman, residing in the and C. D. residing in (the same), who has hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with, who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be 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 days and year aforesaid.
[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary Soldier, and served as he states. And the Court further certifies, that it appears to them that A. B. who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman, resident in the and that C. D., who has also signed the same is a resident in the and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
I, Clerk of the Court of do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, this day of &c.
Every applicant will produce the best proof in his power. This is the original discharge or commission; but if neither of these can be obtained, the party will so state under oath, and will then procure, if possible, the testimony of at least one credible witness, stating in detail his personal knowledge of the services of the applicant, and such circumstances connected therewith, as may have a tendency to throw light upon the transaction.
If such surviving witness cannot be found, the applicant will so state in his declaration, (l) and he will also, whether he produce such evidence or not, proceed to relate all the material facts, which can be useful in the investigation of his claim, and in the comparison of his narrative with the events of the period of his alleged service, as they are known at the Department. A very full account of the services of each person

will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case. The facts stated will afford one of the principal means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition, if one be attempted; and unless, therefore, these are amply and clearly set forth, no favorable decision can be expected. All applicants will appear before some Court of Record in the County in which they reside, and there subscribe and be sworn to, one of the declarations above provided, according to the nature of his case.
The Court will propound the following ( m ) interrogatories to all applicants for a pension, on account of service in the Militia, State troops, or Volunteers, except the Militia of New Hampshire and the State troops of Virginia.
 1. Where and in what year were you born?  2. Have you any record of your age, and if so, where is it?  3. Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary war, and where do you now live?  4. How were you called into service; were you drafted, did you volunteer, or were you a substitute? And if a substitute, for whom?  5. State the names of some of the Regular Officers, who were with the troops, where you served; such Continental and Militia Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your services.  6. { To a Soldier. } Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if so, by whom was it given, and what has become of it? { To an Officer. } Did you ever receive a commission, and if so, by whom was it signed, and what has become of it?  7. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood, and who can testify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution. 
The Court will see that the answers to these questions are embodied in the declaration, and they are requested to annex their opinions of the truth of the statement of the applicant.
The applicant will further produce in Court, if the same can be done, in the opinion of the Court, without too much expense and inconvenience to him, two respectable persons—one of whom should be the nearest clergyman, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of such applicant, who can testify, from their acquaintance with him, that they believe he is of the age he represents, and that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood to have been a Revolutionary soldier, and that they concur in that opinion. If one of these persons is a Clergyman, the Court will so certify, and they will also certify to the character and standing of other persons giving such certificates.
The traditional evidence of service is deemed very important, in the absence of any other proof, except the declaration of the party. And the Courts are requested to be very particular in the enquiry whether the belief is general, and whether any doubts have ever existed upon the subject.
Applicants unable to appear in Court, by reason of bodily infirmity, may make the declaration before required, and submit to the examination, before a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record of the proper county, and the Judge or Justice will execute the duties, which the Court is herein requested to perform, and will also certify that the applicant cannot, from bodily infirmity, attend the Court.
Whenever any official act is required to be done by a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or by a Justice of the Peace, the certificate of the Secretary of State or Territory, or of the proper Clerk of the Court or County, under his seal of office, will be annexed, stating that such person is a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or a Justice of the Peace, and that the signature annexed is his genuine signature.
No payments can be made on account of the services of any person, who may have died before the taking effect of the act of June 7, 1832; and in case of death subsequent thereto, and before the declaration herein required is made, the parties interested will transmit such evidence as they can prove of his death, the opinion of the neighborhood respecting such services, the title of the claimant, and the opinion of the Court upon the whole matter.
[a] The declarant must appear in open Court, unless prevented from doing so by reason of bodily infirmity; in which case the declarant will follow the rule laid down for his guidance.
[b] The declarant must make his declaration in the county where he resides. If he should fail to do so, he must assign a sufficient reason for not conforming to the rule.
[c] The age of the claimant must invariably be mentioned.
[d] The declarant must mention the period or periods of the war when he served.
[e] Every continental officer or soldier must give the name of the Colonel under whom he served; otherwise a satisfactory examination of the claim cannot be had. Every claimant must state, 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. 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 that 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 shown 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.
[f] The law makes the relinquishment indispensable.
[g] The opinion of the Court is always required.
[h] The Clerk must give his certificate in every case.
[i] The Clerk must affix his seal, and if it has no device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal, or if he 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.
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 papers 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.
Proof of Service.
[j] 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 claimant's 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.
The notes from [a] to [i] are all equally applicable to the cases of Militia men, Volunteers and State Troops. The proof required by rule in note [j] applies to continental troops only.
[k] This traditional evidence is indispensable in militia cases.
[l] If a witness cannot be found, the declarant must state the fact.
[m] The answers to the interrogatories must all be written, and sent to the War Department, with the declaration.

Joel Chaffe } Deed. to Joel S t John Chaffe
copy

Co all People to whom these presents shall come :
GREETING.
KNOW YE THAT, I Joel Chaffe of Sharon in Litchfield County and State of Connecticut — for the consideration of Six hundred and twenty dollars received to my full satisfaction of Joel St John Chaffe of S. Sharon
Do give, grant, bargain, sell, and confirm unto the said Joel St. John Chaffe the following described piece of land lying in Sharon Ellsworth Society bounded as follows, Southerly on the highway leading westerly by the dwelling house of Walter Samuel Skiff, west on the Lockwood pitch so called, North on Joshua B Chaffes home farm and East on the highway leading from the dwelling house of Joshua B Chaffe to Walter Skiffs dwelling house containing thirty one Ares more or less. Reserving after my decease for the use & benefit of my wife Eleanor Chaffe the use and improvement of one equal third part of the above described land for and during her natural life.
TO HAVE AND TO HOLD the above granted and bargained premises, with the appurtenances thereof, unto him the said Joel St John Chaffe and to his heirs and assigns forever, to him and their own proper use and behoof. And also, I the said Joel Chaffe —
do for my self & my heirs, executors, and administrators, covenant with the said Joel St John Chaffe and to his heirs and assigns, that at and until the ensealing of these presents I am well seized of the premises, as a good indefeasible estate in fee-simple, and have good right to bargain and sell the same in manner and form as is above written, and that the same is free of all incumbrances whatsoever. except the above reservation.
AND FURTHERMORE, I the said Joel Chaffe do by these presents bind my self and my heirs forever to warrant and defend the above granted and bargained premises to him the said Joel St John Chaffe and his heirs and assigns against all claims and demands whatsoever. except the above reservation.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal the 13th day of February Anno Domini 1829.
Signed, sealed, and delivered In presence of Sally Perkins Samuel E Everett
Joel Chaffe (seal)
Litchfield County ss Sharon February the 13th 1829 Personally appeared Joel Chaffe signer and sealer of the foregoing instrument, and acknowledged the same to be his free act and deed before me.
True copy of a Deed Recd March 2nd 1829 and Recorded by Geo Kling Jew Register Samuel E Everett Jus. Peace

Town Clerks Office Sharon Ct. March 20 th 1829.
This may Certify that the within is a true copy as appears of Record in this Office. Book 21 st folios 61.
Geo Kling Sun Register.

✓ 26.07.6
S Woo tang

16.880 Connecticut R
Joel Chaffee, of Litchf. Co. in the state of Conn.
who was a private in the regiment commanded by colonel Burrill of the Connecticut line, for the term of one year.
scribed on the Roll of Connecticut at the rate of 8 Dollars per month, to commence on the 7. of December, 1819.
Certificate of Pension issued the 10. of May, 1820 and sent to Elisha Sterling, judge Salisbury, Connecticut.
Arrears to 4th of March, 1820. $: 23.48. Semi-ann. all'ce ending 10. Sept r } 48. " 2 mo. 29 } 1820. } $: 71.48. 31. }
{ Revolutionary claim, { Act 18th March, 1818. }
Discontinued
Notified to Genl. H. C. P. by Genl. H. C. P. 24 June 1829.

Rev WIDOW, &c.
File No. 6909  aw
Eleanor Chaffee
Wid.
Joel Chaffee
Br. Rev. War
Act: Feb. 30/53
Index:—Vol. 4 , Page 128
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Sharon, Conn. May 3. 1886
Sir
It is understood that the law requiring Record Evidence of Seisin , has been altered so that it may now be proved by Parol Evidence - For the reason, on behalf of the applicant Mrs. Salome Chaplin, I have to request that her claim (No. 160.481. may be reexamined -
Respectfully &c. Chas. F. Sprague
J. Munroe Esq. Counsel of Petitioner -

ACT OF MARCH 3, 1855.
REVOLUTIONARY CLAIMS.
PENSION OFFICE,
1856.
Apr. 7 th
Madam
The claim of Eleanor Chaffee for bounty land under the act of the 3d March, 1855, No. 160,448) has been examined and suspended.
The revolutionary service of Joel Chaffee the husband of the applicant, does not appear of record in this office.
The 3d section of said act requires a service of "FOURTEEN DAYS" to be established by "RECORD EVIDENCE."
Upon the production of such evidence of service, the claim will be favorably considered.
IT SHOULD BE OBSERVED, that the recorded action of this office, admitting a revolutionary soldier to the list of pensioners upon parole proof, is not considered "record evidence" of service within the meaning of the act aforesaid. In all applications for bounty land under this act, the papers of the soldiers, or their widows, who have applied for or received pensions, as well as the rolls in this office, are carefully examined for record evidence of service, before this circular is issued.
Respectfully,
J. MINOT, Commissioner.
Mrs. Eleanor Chaffee, Sharon. Ct.

Brief in the case of Eleanor Chaffee Setchfield County and State of Calif act 3 Feb 1855.
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 Jewanner at $100 per annum Record proof of marriage
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
Name and residence of Agent
C. M. Sedgewick Sharon, Co.
J. P. Bell Examining Clerk.

Payable on the 4th March and 4th September of each year, by the Branch Bank U.S. in Middletown, Conn't No pension is payable until the arrival of one or the other of the above dates, after the issue of a Certificate.
Registered, by J. H. Henshaw Clerk, in book B, volume 3, page 63

War Department.
REVOLUTIONARY CLAIM.
I CERTIFY that, in conformity with the Law of the United States, of the 18th March, 1818, Joel Chaffee, of  Steubenville  Steubenville County, Connecticut, ## _____ " _____ late a private _____ " _____ in the Army of the Revolution, is inscribed on the Pension List, Roll of the Connecticut _____ " _____ Agency, at the rate of Eight _____ dollars per month, to commence on the seventh day of December , one thousand eight hundred and nineteen .
GIVEN at the War Office of the United States, this tenth _____ day of May , _____ one thousand eight hundred and twenty .
Stearns Secretary of War.

Isaac Chamberlain of lawful age testifies & says that in the year 1776 in the month of February Joel Chaffer enlisted into the regular army of the United States of America for the term of one year in the company commanded by Capt. David Downs, which company composed a part of the regiment commanded by Colonel Charles Barrall & that the said Chaffer served in the northern army in the year campaign of 1776 & that the aforesaid regiment was discharged on the first day of February A.D. 1777 & further saith not Isaac Chamberlain
Lat. 42° 30' Lon. 71° 15' W. Sherborn November the 29. 1812 Personally appeared the above deponent Isaac Chamberlain, and made oath that the above facts are true, before me.
Samuel E. Eweratt Jus. Peace
This may certify that the above deponent Isaac Chamberlain has a good character for truth and veracity - -
Samuel E. Eweratt Jus. of the Peace

John Jackson of Sharon Litchfield County and State of Connecticut, of lawful age testifies & says, that in the year 1776. in the month of February, I and Chaffer of said Sharon enlisted into the regular army of the United States of America for the term of one year in the Company commanded by Capt. David Davenport which company composed a part of the regiment commanded by Colonel Charles Burrill, and that the said Chaffer served in the Northern Army in the Campaign of 1776, and further the Deponent saith not
John Jackson
Litchfield County ss. Sharon Nov r 29. 1819 Personally appeared the above deponent John Jackson, and made oath that the facts above stated are true before me Samuel E. Croott Justice
This may certify that the above deponent John Jackson has a good character for truth and veracity. Samuel E. Croott Justice of the Peace

Sharon, Ky. 12 th mo.
Pension Office
18. March, 1842
Joel Chaffee 1 May 1820
Dear Sir:
War Department Pension Office Washington City -
Free Pension

I Joel St John Chaffe of Sharon, Litchfield County and State of Connecticut of Lawfull age depose and say that I have executed my several Notes of hand, for the sum of Seven hundred, and thirty one dollars. to meet the demands or debts, now due from my Father Joel Chaffe, to his creditors - for which I have Recd. from him - a Deed of Thirty one acres of Land, valued at twenty dollars per acre - one yoke of Steers valued at sixty dollars, two cows at thirty dollars. and two young cattle at twenty dollars - and further the deponent saith not - Joel St John Chaffe
Litchfield County ss. Sharon March the 7 th 1829 Personally appeared Joel St John Chaffe subscriber to the foregoing deposition and made solemn Oath to the truth of the same - Attest Samuel B Evertt Justice of the Peace

Sharon (Conn). March 12, 1829
To the Hon Secy of War -
I enclose the Documents to prove  to prove the right of Mr Joel Chaffer of this town to be placed upon the pension list of the United States - It will be seen that under the act of the 18 th March 1818 Mr Chaffer made application to the proper Authority and was duly admitted - but that he considered himself cut off by the subsequent acts of Congress & made no further application. The evidence to prove his service is contained in the Depositions of Messrs Isaac Chamberlain & John Leekman now in the War Dept. which were taken to prove his claim under his former application - It will appear that since the 18 th March 1818 he has disposed of property to the amount of six hundred sixty eight Dollars. but all the pension money has been applied in payment of the debts owed by Mr Chaffer & he is in point of fact still further indebted to a large amount - That The claim of Mr Chaffer has been acted upon you will please to communicate the result due -
Very Respectfully Your obedt Servt -
Chas. F. Sedgwick

This certifies that I am personally acquainted with Mr Joel Chaffee and I believe that he sustains a fair character for truth and morality. I believe him to be 73 years of age, and that he is generally supposed to have been a soldier of the revolution. Frederick Gidley
Pastor of the second Church in Sharon
Sharon 11th of Feb. 1833
Litchfield County ss Sharon February the 11-1833 Personally appeared the Rev. Frederick Gidley and made solemn oath, that he believes the above certificate by him subscribed to be true, — The above named Frederick Gidley is now a settled Minister, in the Town of Sharon, Samuel E. Everett Just. of the Peace

I Isaac Everett of Sharon in Litchfield County and State of Connecticut, depose and say that I am Eighty years of age - that I have for 70. years lived  resided a near neighbour to Joel Chaffe of said Sharon, - that he the said Joel Chaffe, enlisted in the service of the Un- ited States - and served in a Company com- manded by Capt David Downs - he went to the northway - with the said Downs - and after the said Joel Chaffe returned from the Tour to the Northward, he the said Joel Chaffe enlisted again, and went to the southward in a Company commanded by Capt. Amos Chaplin - I do not recollect the the year the said Chaffe went to the North- ward - but I believe in that tour he enlisted for a year - when the said Chaffe went to the South - while there he was taken sick, and I went after him and brought him home - and further the deponent said not - Isaac Everett
Litchfield County ss. Sharon Feby the 11. 1833 Personally appeared Isaac Everett signer of the above Deposition, who is a competent, and credible witness and made solemn oath to the truth of facts set forth in the above deposition - Before me Samuel E. Everett Jus. of the Peace

I Elizabeth Everitt of Sharon in Litchfield County and State of Connecticut depose and say that I am 75 years of age - and am a sister of Joel Chaffee of S d Sharon - that in the Revolutionary War the S d Joel Chaffee enlisted in a company commanded by Capt. David Downs for one year and went with the said company to the Northward - after he returned from the North - the S d Chaffee enlisted in a company command- ed by Capt. Amos Chaplin for three months and went with the company to the Southward, and that the said Joel Chaffee is now 73 years of age - and further - the Deposition said not. Elizabeth Everitt
Litchfield County S d Sharon February 10 th 1833. Personally appeared Elizabeth Everitt, who signed the above deposition, and made solemn affirmation to the truth of the above facts - The said Elizabeth Everitt is a creditable witness - Samuel E. Everitt, J d of the Peace

Joel Chapin
24/50

I John Lord of Sharon in Litchfield County and State of Connecticut, depose and say that I am 75 years of age - that I am well acquainted with Joel Chaffee of S d Sharon, - that in the fore-part of the summer of 1777, the s d Joel Chaffee was drafted, and marched in the company commanded by Capt Pongracz, to the place where Troy now stands in the state of New-York, to which company I also belonged that the said Chaffee, - served in said company, in the vicinity of the place where S d Troy now stands and a place then called Pitts-Town, in the service of the United States - in guarding the Tories - about one Month, and until, said company was discharged,
John Lord
Litchfield County, Sharon February the 6 th 1833 Personally appeared John Lord, signer of the above Affidavit, and made oath, that the facts therein stated are true - The above named John Lord, is a creditable Witness - Samuel E Everett Jr. of the Bar

I Isaac Chamberlin of the town in Litchfield County and State of Connecticut, Testify and say that I am 76 years of age - That I am well acquainted with Joel Chaffin of said Sharon, now an applicant for a Pension, from the United States - That in February 1776, the said Joel Chaffin, enlisted in the service of the United States, for one year, in a company commanded by Capt David Downs - of said Sharon, said company belonged to the Regt - commanded by Col. Charles Burrill, - That the said Joel Chaffin, and myself, went with, and served in said company - to the northward, in the vicinity of Crown Point, and Mount- Independence, in the State of New York, and in Canada -
Isaac Chamberlin
Litchfield County ss. Sharon February 11 th 1833 Personally appeared Isaac Chamberlin signer of the above affidavit & made oath that the facts therein stated are true -
Isaac Chamberlin setting forth that the above named Isaac Chamberlin is a credible Witness.
Isaac Chamberlin setting forth that

State of Connecticut County of Litchfield
I Frederick D. Beeman Clerk of the County Court for this County and State do hereby certify that William Heat and Catherine F. Sedgwick Esq. an Justices of the Court for this County opened, and that the Official signatures to the papers hereto annexed by them purporting to be sincerely made - are genuine -
Witness my hand and the seal of said Court this 24 th day of March 1853 -
Frederick D. Beeman Clerk

5484.
Joel Chaffee, Litchfield County, Conn. 7. December, 1819.
Col o . Burrill's regt. Conn. line, one year, Feb y . 1776. to Feb y . 1777.
5484 V Case of Joel Chaffee
Elisha Sterling
Salisbury, Conn
Dec r . 16. 1819
Services proved by the testimony of two persons, on oath, certified to be credible witnesses.
Adm t
Elisha Sterling, judge Salisbury, Connecticut. rec d . 16. Dec r . 1819.

I Joel Chase of Sharon in the County of Litchfield & State of Connecticut within the Probate District of Sharon do hereby do declare & depose & say that in the Month of February A.D. 1776 I enlisted for the term of one year into the Company commanded by Captain David Dorn of said Sharon which Company belonged to the Regiment commanded by Col. Charles Brimhall which Company & Regiment belonged to the Army of the United States in the Army of the Revolution & was on the Continental Establishment and I served my Country faithfully in the Northern Army on the Continental Establishment as a private Soldier for the term of my enlistment save only after I had moved into North of the Farm of my enlistment I was taken sick and rendered unfit for duty & had liberty of the Surgeon to return home to recover my health which I did & before I regained my health so as to be able to do duty the term of my enlistment had expired & the Company were discharged and I further depose & say that I am now sixty years of age Inasmuch as of health & by reason of the state of my property I am advised in my circumstances that I need the assistance of my Country for support and

The reason I have not applied for the benefit of the law of Congress of the 10 th of March 1818 is that it was said that Small's Regiment did not belong to the Continental Establishment and I have but lately learned it had been so determined by the Secretary of War - I further that that Mr. Benjamin Spauling of Sharon who belonged to the same Company & served at the same time with me has already obtained his Pension Certificate - and this Application is for the purpose of obtaining a Pension Certificate for myself  Salisbury Dec. 7 th 1819.
State of Connecticut, County of God Chaffee Litchfield ss. Probate District of Sharon December 7 th 1819. Personally appeared Joel Chaffee Signer & Subscriber to the foregoing Affidavit & made solemn oath to the truth of the same before me Elisha Sturtevant Judge of the Court of Probate in & for the District of Sharon
To the Honored J. C. Calhoun
Sir I herewith inclose to you the application of Joel Chaffee of Sharon for the benefit of the law of Congress of the 10 th of March 1818 regarding Pensions. The bond of his claim, in my view stands on high ground - should you grant him a certificate, it is my request that you forward the same to me, directed to Salisbury, County of Litchfield State of Connecticut. I am very respectfully your Obedt Servt Elisha Sturtevant  Salisbury Dec 7 th 1819
msn Dec 7 th 1819

State of Connecticut, & County of Litchfield
I Elisha Sterling Esquire Judge of the Court of Probate in & for the District of Sharon in the County afo d do hereby certify that the foregoing affidavit was truly & regularly taken by the Providence exhibited to me, it appears to my Satisfaction that said Joel Chaffe proved in the Revolutionary War against the common enemy in the Service & during the term stated in his afo d affidavit & that by reason of his reduced Circumstances in Life he is in need of assistance from his Country for Support & I do further certify that I am acquainted with Isaac Chambers & John Jackson Esq rs Deputies herewith inclose & that they are men of Truth and Veracity & credible Witnesses that Samuel E. Everett Esquire is a Justice of the Peace in & for said County of Litchfield. In testimony whereof I have at Salisbury in the District of Sharon hereunto set my hand & caused the Seal of said Court, which is a Court of Record, to be affixed this 13 th Day of December A d 1809
Elisha Sterling Judge of the Court of Probate in & for the District of Sharon —
I Frederick A. Sterling Clerk of the Court of Probate in the District of Sharon in the County of Litchfield & State of Connecticut, certify that the Seal hereunto annexed is the Seal of said Court & that the above Signature is the Hand Writing of the Judge of said Court
Frederick A. Sterling Clerk —