Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 1915, Robert Chewning, Va.

SERVICE
NUMBER
Va.
Chewning Robert
R 1915-
CONTENTS

Chunies Paps.

is entitled to full credit.
Testi —————
Robt Pritchard & Gee
And the said Comt then propounded the following questions to the said applicant Robert Pritchard as laid down by the War Department to which the annexed answers were given.
1. When and in what year were you born?
Answer. I was born and raised in Caroline County Virginia was born in the month of March 1752 according to what I always heard from my parents.
2. Have you any record of your age and if so where is it?
Answer.
I have no record of my age that I know of - always understood I was born in March 1752 and and I never forgot the date in my life -
3. Where were you living when called into service where have you lived since the Revolutionary War and where do you now live?
Answer.
When called into service I was a resident of Caroline County Va. where I remained till the close of the war and then came to where I now live in Spotsylvania County Virginia formerly Fauquier County.
4. How were you called into service; were you drafted did you volunteer or were you a substitute and if a substitute for whom?
Answer.
I was a drafted soldier and never any time called on but never was a substitute for any one.
5. State the names of the Regular officers who were with the troops when you arrived; such continental and militia regiments as you can recollect and the general circumstances of your service.
Answer.
During my time in the militia I was not ap-

6. created with any portion of the regular army and consequently occurred in any of the names of the regular officers - During my last tour before our company reached Washington the day before the battle of Manassas and I knew many of the men of high station but I did not have time to learn their names before the army was defeated. As to the militia regiments with which my company was connected I distinctly remember a company from the first part of Orange County under Captain White who was with us nearly all the four days - and this I remember because after coming to Orange to live I renewed the acquaintance of some of his old soldiers when accidentally informed in the army - I think I could prove my services by a Mr. Henry Freeman if living who was one of his soldiers, but who left this country many years ago and also by one John if alive who also was of it. Did you ever receive a discharge from the service and if so by whom was it given and what has become of it.
Answer. I did not apply for a discharge and consequently did not obtain one from any of my services in the army. Their honor applied and secured their discharges but I did not consider it important and now that I am asked for one.
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 in the Revolution.
Answer. I am known to all my neighbors they can furnish if desired the best evidence of my character for veracity and crediting my services - my nearest neighbors are Alexander Whitehouse William Thornton an old soldier; James D. Fruits, Esq. B. White both members of the Court for our County - others as many as may be required - If traditional evidence will allow my claim I can satisfy the Department. I would not apply for a pension but for having to pay heavy taxes. Robert Fleming still for my sons, which has reduced my means. I am sure you know to send evidence in open Court. Test. R. Mitchell

Virginia: Greene County To wit I Robert Pritchett Clerk of the Court of Greene County, do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the appli- -cation of Robert Cheeseman for a license.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and Seal of Office, this 14 th day of June 1845.
R Pritchett Clk Greene County Court.
deposited.

State of Virginia Greene County S.S.
This day 14 th day of June 1845 personally appeared in open Court before the Clerk of said County Robert Chewning aged nearly three years next March who being first duly sworn doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed June 7 th 1832.
That he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers and served as herein after stated being in the militia for the period of twelve months in the Revolutionary War That at the time of entering the army I was a resident of the County of Caroline where I remained till after the war I came to Orange to live near called Paeonian That his first term of three months was under Captain John Tyler of Caroline County Then his neighbor, that during said his company was stationed in the lower Potomac about Williamsburg and a portion of said term his company was stationed at Williamsburg That before going to Williamsburg his company was stationed together with other companies at a place called "Molin Hills" below Richmond and after remaining there a short time were then marched to Williamsburg where he remained till the time for which he enlisted expired and then all hands were discharged - That according to the best of his memory he entered this first term in the month of October - in the year 1780 and returned home some time in the month of January - of the year 1781; That during said term of three months his company was not associated in any way with the regular army; that during the stay of his company at "Molin Hills" he well remembers that a man was stripped and whipped for giving his gun whilst in camp; that he was whipped by the Corporal and he was sorry to see it for he always thought it was an accident in giving the gun - he did not know the individual offending personally. That he did not get a written discharge from this first 3 months term because he did not call for it, that discharges were given to such soldiers as called for them and many did obtain them; That after said term of 3 months under Captain James Sutton made a call for men in my County Caroline and I was drafted in his company for three months; that his company was raised

as well as he can now remember in and about the month of February in the year 1781. That said company proceeded to the lower country near the Rappahannock River and stationed in tents for some time in expectation of the enemy then in small squads scattered in the Lower part of Virginia; that whilst in that second trip under Capt. Patton he remembers the enemy scouted the neighborhood where he was stationed and did a good deal of mischief; that at one time during said trip of three months his company was stationed for some time near Fredericksburg in Spotsylvania County but did not get up quite to that town; that at another period of said trip his company was stationed at "Port Royal" a small village in the County of Caroline from whence I went in the army; that no portion of said trip was his company attached with the regulars of the Continental army that during said second trip under Captain Salton his company passed through the following Counties as near as he now remembers viz: Essex, Mathews and Richmond & King George - that when the company to which he belonged said trip reached "Port Royal" and remained there quarters for some length of time the men were discharged from duty and that he the said Peter Chewning returned to his home in the said County of Caroline where he remained here some time in the month of May '81 when he was again drafted and entered the militia company under command of Captain Thomas Ellis. That all hands were directed to meet at Caroline C. H. on a certain day in March; that at the time appointed his company was mustered at the C. H. and marched from that place to the Creek of Charles City between Richmond and Williamsburg where they were stationed for some at a place called "Laws-Downs." That after remaining here for some time his company was marched through New Kent, King William & Essex Counties to near the Potomac in pursuit of the enemy scattered throughout that section and every day to the inhabitants in that section. That on skirmish way they of that kind took place during said third trip under Captain Ellis that his company was always in place whilst in that trip that he cannot mention between the lines of some details to name them, as he now could, not only the names of all of his officers

but at one time he could state all the facts great or small that occurred during said service. That during said third tour his company marched to a place called "The Grove" in Middlesex County where his company was discharged and he came home; that he did not call for a discharge this time but did and received them. That he at that time looked on a discharge as but little value to a man when he was in ready and willing to fight for his country whenever called on; that no portion of said tour over his men attached to the regular army whom he never saw. That having served out his time in the militia under Captain Ellis he returned at home like the month of August in the year 1781 when he again was drafted in the militia in the company commanded by David Sams-son who was Captain of this company in which he served his fourth tour and his company marched to Lower Virginia passing through Hanover, Coothland & New Kent Counties and other counties the names of which he cannot now call that a portion his company was stationed at a place called "New Dales" in New Kent County but did not remain long. That during this tour his company was in the presence of a party of British pirates on the inhabitants of the neighborhood but that the enemy escaped and made off. That his company during this fourth tour was not in any way connected with the regular army and therefore he cannot give the name of any of their officers; that during this fourth tour under Captain Sams-son he was in the following Counties as well as he can remember viz - Charles City, Gloucester, King & Queen a portion of Henry and New Kent & Henrico Counties. That the above are tours he will most distinctly remember and which he has spoken of ever since the war broke out. That previously  afterwards he lived as mentioned man and remembers to have been employed in improving homes and preparing short time as a minute man for the occasion to be ready whenever danger approached. Sometimes he was out 10 or 12 days, some time out so long and at other times longer, but which he

caused owing to their frequency mention with such particularity as to time and place as is required by the department - My term of 3 months in the militia I distinctly remember because it was a hardship not easily to be forgotten. That he employed Mr. Daniel White some years ago to prepare his papers and not knowing how to proceed he made mistakes - as to my term as is to be seen from the papers states that I served six months alone term ended - That he authorized Mr. White to sign his name to his former application. He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present and declares his name is not on the list roll of the agency of any State whatever. From to & subscribed the day and year aforesaid in open court. Robert Cheever
The word "month" 2nd page and "previously" interlined by direction of counsel. Teste. R. Pritchard Clk. G.C.C.
We Thomas R. Deane Esq. man residing in Mr. Robert Cheever's neighborhood and John B. White residing in the same hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Mr. Robert Cheever who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration, that we believe him to be nearly ninety three years of age, that he is respected and beloved in the neighborhood where he resides to have been a soldier of the Revolution and that we concur in that opinion - That as a revolutionary soldier the belief is general among having heard any man doubt it in their lives.
Thomas R. Deane Esq. man John B. White Neighbor.
From to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
Teste. R. Pritchard C.G.C.
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 Thomas R. Deane who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman resident in Mr. Robert Cheever's neighborhood and that John B. White Esq. who has signed the same is also a resident of the same neighborhood and is a credible person and a justice of the peace for said Court; and that their statements

April 23-1857
Statement of Eliza Cheuning son & heir of Robt Cheuning
Bed Rutcheil
Stannardsville
Green County
Virginia
James E. Heath
Commission of Deeds
Washington City D.C.
Wm Black April 15

State of Virginia Greene County, 3 rd SS.
This day Elisha Cheunings formally appeared before me Anthony Thornton Justice of the Peace and made oath, that he is the Son, and Executor of Robert Cheunings Dec d who died in the County of Orange, V a . That his father Robert Cheunings was reported to have been a revolutionary Soldier, and that he has frequently heard his father speak of his services in the Revolution, and stated that he had served Nine Months in the Revolution, that he remembers, & this incident, but cannot state them positively. He is well convinced his father rendered service. He also states that his father made application during his life for a Pension, but the same was not decided during his life. He will also state that his father was a man of unimpeached veracity, and ever bore, a good character, of which he can obtain unquestioned evidence. His father made during his life, a Declaration in Open Court, stating his services and he believed but for the bad reputation of one Coleman Payne who was then his agent, the Department at Washington would have believed his statement, and paid his claim in accordance with the requisitions. Sworn to and subscribed before me this 12 day of March 1851.
Elisha Cheunings
A. Thornton J.P.
The Hon ble Commr of Pensions will please give to my agent and attorney Rev A. Mitchell of Stanardsville Greene County Virginia any information in regard to my father's claim & oblige Very Respectfully Yours.
Elisha Cheunings

State of Virginia, } Giles County ss. 3
I, Robert Pritchett Clerk of the Court of said County of Giles, Certify that A. Shurton Gentleman is a Magistrate as above, and that the foregoing signature for posting to which is given.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the said Court, and Subscribed my name this 18 th day of April 1857. R. Pritchett.

Stanardsville Greene Co Va 18 April 1851.
Hon Saml E Heath Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D.C.
Dear Sir:
Enclosed you will perceive a statement of Mr Elisha Chevering Son and Executor of Robert Chevering decd. who was a Revolutionary Soldier and made application during his life for a Pension: He has papers in his possession from the former Commissioner Mr James L Edwards, who seems to have entertained some prejudice against the claim because presented by one Coleman Payne the then acting agent of Mr Robert Chevering. Mr Chevering was a man of unexceptionable character having made his declaration in his life time, in accordance with the Regulation sanctioned by the Government, it is strange his Pension has not been allowed him. The lapse of time precluded the possibility of positive proof, neither do the regulations require proof, when the soldier is living, and makes his own statement. The fact of his not making earlier application, may be explained, & can be in the following manner, Mr. Chevering was in good temporal circumstances, & did not desire to become a pensioner on the Government, until he became senectus from age & could do nothing. You will please give the claim an early examination, & much oblige the parties interested; Who feel more on account of the probable disgrace, some would endeavour to draw from the rejection of the claim, than the amount involved. Please address me at this office.
Very Respectfully
B A Pritchett.

Virginico
Greene County S.C.
I Zachariah E. Harrison do hereby certify under oath I have known Mr. Robert Lehewings for four years past and for the last eighteen months have been a member of the said Lehewings family by inter-marriage with one of his daughters; That ever since my first acquaintance with Mr. Lehewings I have at various times had conversations with him in relation to his revolutionary services and he always said he was in the service between eighteen months and two years & that at the time of said service he was a resident of Camden County Virginia. I have also at different times heard Mr. Lehewings speak of his different men in the war but do not at this time remember the number of men he said he made, nor the names of the officers under whom he served. From his repeated conversations in relation to his services I always understood as above that he was in the militia between eighteen months and two years as above stated - he never in my hearing spoke of having been in service only six months.
As witness my hand this 8 th day of September 1845.
Zachariah E. Harrison
Greene County S.C.
This day personally appeared before me the Rev. Zachariah E. Harrison a minister in the Methodist Episcopal Church and made oath in due form of law to the truth of the facts set forth in the foregoing affidavit and I do certify to the true & correct

That said officer is personally known to me and is an individual of great respectability and good standing - and by marriage one of Mr. Robert Cheeseman's family. I soon to and subscribed before me on this day. As witness my hand and seal this 8 th day of September 1845.
John B. White Seal J.P.
Virginian, Greene County, S.S.
I Elisha Cheeseman aged thirty years do certify under oath I am a son of Mr. Robert Cheeseman of Greene County Va. and have always lived in his family and that time after time I have heard my said father speak of his revolutionary service ever since my earliest recollection - he always spoke of having been in the militia between eighteen months and two years - and I never heard him say he was in service only six months. I have also heard him frequently mention his different men and officers but do not remember at this time the number of his men and none of his officers except one (who I think was a Col. Mathews), so I now subscribe distinctly of hearing him speak of. Whenever he conversed with his friends and acquaintances & with his family he invariably stated he was in service between eighteen months and two years - and never in my life have I heard him assert to the contrary. As witness my hand this 8 th day of September 1845.
Elisha Cheeseman
Greene County Virginian S.S.
This day personally appeared before me the above named Elisha Cheeseman and made oath in due form of law to the truth of the facts set forth in the foregoing affidavit. And I do certify to the War Department at Washington.

ington City That said Blisho Chermey is personally known to me is a son of old Mr Robert Chermey reported to be a revolutionary soldier - and as further certify said Blisho Chermey is a man of much reputability and of unquestioned veracity.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 8 day of September 1848. As witness my hand and seal the day and date last above mentioned.
John B. White J.P.
Virginia - Greene County S.S.
I Alexander Whitelaw aged about fifty years and a citizen of said County hereby certify under oath I am a son in Law to old Mr Robert Chermey having married into his fami- ly about 25 years ago - and times innumerable have heard the old man speak of his revolutionary services and he invariably said he was in service be- tween 18 months and two years - he has frequently mentioned in my presence the number of his men which in the militia was 6 drafts which he said he lost. His conversations in regard to the length of his service have been so often repeated that I re- member them as well as I do any circumstance whatsoever. I have often heard him speak of his men which he said he served in 1780 under Cap- tains _____ and _____ of Pendleton Co.
I do further certify under oath I was present with old Mr Chermey and Daniel White Esq. one of the justices of Greene County when the latter drew up the first declaration - and I can safely say Mr White did not put down all Mr Chermey said about his services in the war. I remember dis- tinctly his telling Mr White all of his officers whom I think was _____ _____ & a few more subordinate officers he

names of whom have escaped my memory. Mr. White then drew up a kind of declaration which he said he would send on to Newington. That he had not gone into the details mentioned by Mr. Charnley - and had put down as much as he thought was sufficient to carry the case through. He signed the old man's name, but I well remember he did not read to Mr. Charnley what had been written, nor did Mr. Charnley read it himself, for his sight was very bad. Neither was there the usual oath administered to Mr. Charnley by Mr. White - he stating it was not necessary. I am confident he informed Mr. White the magistrates that he was in the senior between 18 months and two years. The declaration which Mr. Charnley recently testified to is about to my know- ledge was a repetition of what I always heard him say in relation to his services. I think the declaration drawn up by Mr. White was future in the matter of 43 & 44. Alexander Whitelaw
Grenon County ss:
This 10 th day of September 1845 personally appeared before me the above named Alexander Whitelaw and made oath in due form of Law to the truth of the facts set forth in the above affidavit. And I certify that said Alexander Whitelaw is personally known to me to be a man of high standing & of unques- tionable veracity. Witness my hand & seal this day and date last above written.
Anthony Thornton Clerk
State of Virginia - Grenon County To all:
I Robert Pritchell Clerk of the Court of Grenon County, Certify that John Buckle, and Anthony Thornton Gentlemen are Magistrates in the foregoing signatures purporting to be theirs are true copies of their own hands which I have hereunto affixed my seal of office and subscribed my name this 15 th day of September in the year 1845.
Robt Pritchell Clerk

Stanardsville 21 st July 1853
Wm Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
etc

Stanardsville Greene County Virginia
July 20: 1853.
Wm Commission of Pensions Washington City D.C.
Sir:
You will please inform me if any action has been taken in the case of Robert Chewning a Revolutionary Soldier, who filed his application several years since during his life time. Since which his Executor Elisha Chewning Esqr has forwarded evidence through me as his agent. This has been more than 12 months since. There is also a Power of Attorney on file from the said Exec r to me.
You will please inform me if any application for Revolutionary Pension has been made by the Heirs or Administrators of George Bingham dec d of this County.
Very Respectfully, P. A. Pritchett.

Virginia
Giles County, Sept.:
J. H. J. Noct. co
citizens of the County aforesaid do certify under what I am in my 76 year and by marriage a connexion of Mr. Robert Cheewning expected to be a revolutionary soldier. Some short time after old Mr. Cheewning requested Mr. Daniel White to draw up his declaration for a pension. I happened at Mr. White's house and the pension claim of Mr. Cheewning came up as a topic between Mr. White and myself. Mr. White said he had no doubt the old man's claim would be allowed by the De- partment - and he then remarked that Mr. Cheewning went so much into details in telling him of his services that he thought it best not to put him all that he said in regard to his services for that old men were too tedious on that subject. The class of his remarks respecting the war was that he only reduced his writing as many of the facts as he thought would be sufficient to show that he was in the war. And I inferred from what was then said that Mr. White considered the claim a just one.
J. H. J. Noct.

Brooks County, Virginia.
This day personally appeared before me one of the parties of the peace for said County - Mr. W. I. Abel and made oath in due form of Law to the facts set forth in the foregoing affidavit. And I do hereby certify to the Department at Washington that said affiant is personally known to me to be a man of respectability and of strict virtue & a good citizen. As witness my hand and Seal this 10th of September 1845.
John B White 2nd Clerk
I Daniel White do hereby certify the declaration of Col. Robert Chauncy for a Pension was drawn up by myself in the presence of the old gentlemen and his son in Law Mr. Alexander Whitelaw. In matter of Pensions I never had any experience and was not aware of the necessity of naming particularly the officers and years of service. Had I been so informed I could easily have given an account of Mr. Chauncy's years in the militia, as I knew his officers for he named them to me very minutely and from my recollection I thought he stated more years than was necessary to entitle him to the Department. I therefore drew up a short statement of facts from memory without asking questions and forwarded them to Washington. I remember my said Mr. Chauncy said he served between 18 months and two years but I thought it unnecessary to state more than 3 or six months service either of which I believe would entitle

how to be much pay as for the time he said he served. According to memory he informed me of about six times in the militia and I think two of them he said was in the early part of the year 1780 and the other times if my memory serves and came in quick succession. He also named officers whose names I have forgotten entirely. I have no doubt I made unintentional mistakes in making up his declaration for at the time I may have been too much under the influence of intoxicating drinks - in which at times I indulged too freely for my own good.
Daniel White
Greene County limit:
This day personally appeared before me Daniel White Esq. one of the justices of the Peace for said County and made oath in due form of law to the facts set forth in the foregoing affi- davit. And I certify said White is a man of honor and veracity and one of our best meaning citizens.
As witness my hand and seal this 15th of September 1845.
Joseph Gurnee
Daniel White
3 Signed through mistake.

State of Virginia - Greene County to Wit. I Robert Pritchett Clerk of the Court of Greene County, Certify that John DeWitt, and Joel James Gentlemen as Magistrates, as also - And that the foregoing Signatures purporting to be theirs are genuine - Testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my Seal of Office and Subscribed my name this 15 th day of September in the Year 1845.
Rob t Pritchett C lerk

At a Monthly Court, held for the County of Greene, On Thursday, the 11 th day of September 1845.
The Court doth Certify to George W. Crump Esq r . that each of them have been acquainted with Robert Churning Esq r for many Years, and cheerfully bear testimony to his high standing for honor and morality. He is one of our oldest and most respectable Citizens and has the perfect confidence of all who know him, as a Man of strict integrity and veracity.
A Copy. Test.
Rob t Pritchett Clk Greene County Court.
State of Virginia, Greene County ss. 3
I, Robert Pritchett Clerk of the Court of Greene County. Certify, that William Sims, & Oliver Finks Gentlemen (whose names are signed to the within affidavit, and Power of Attorney) are Magistrates as above, and that the foregoing signatures purporting to be theirs are genuine. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto affixed the seal of my said Office, and Subscribed my name this 1 st day of March 1852, in the 76 th Year of the Commonwealth.
Rob t Pritchett

To
The Commission of Pensions Washington D.C.

Waukesha (Virginia)
June 20 th 1845.
Dear Sir:
Enclosed herewith are the papers of old Mr. Robt. Cheyney for a pension under Act of June 1832. His claim was once rejected by the department as miscalculated by the enclosed decision dated to the Hon. J. W. Gilmer his agent. As soon as the case is disposed of be so good as to inform me of the result.
In haste
Your obedt. Servant
Calman Payne
To W. L. Edmunds Washington D.C.
P. S. Since entering Mr. Kendrick's declination we have fortunately procured evidence of his services which is herewith enclosed. Mr. Kendrick's papers were sent on the middle of June past.
O. P. Pigeon
July 19 th 1845.

Petersville Va. 26 Aug. '44
Mrs. White Law relation to pension claim of Robt Cheunings
Recd 30 Aug. '44 Ans?
Pension agent Ed
in host
Washington
Mr Peter Hagner
Respectfully referred to Commission of Pensions 3rd Audit Office 30 Aug. '44
Enclosure recd Aug 29 7 PM - 44
Robt Cheunings Va 32

St. Asaph Aug 32
Ruckersville Oct Sept 27th 44
Respectfully referred to Committee of Finance 3rd sess of the 30th Congress
Mr Peter Hagman Washington
in host
City agent ) Pension
Resolutions of 26th July 1844 Mrs. Williams relation to Mrs. Clark of Mr. Jennings Dec 30th 1844 Wm?

Green County August 26. 1849 Mr Peter Hagner
Dear I sent on a pension Claim Sum time a go of Mr Robert Cheewings of the county of Orange and never heard what was done with it please inquire that wheather he was intitled to it or not he proved that he did Serve upwards of twelve months in the regular Service and the captions that he was under and at what place and what campaigns and was at the siege of York when that was taken and I should think if others was intitled to draw a pension he ought to draw one also he is now 91 years old Please write me wheather there can be any thing got as he is in want of it and if nothing can be had please return the papers back to me at Ruppersville post office Green County I am willing compensate you for your trouble
I am your most Humble Servant
Alexander Whitaker

Stanardsville Va October 24th 1868
Mr Wm. Selden
Treasurer of the united States Pension singel Washington
Respectfully referred to the Com. of Pensions Treasury Office Oct 27. 1868
Robt. Chemung Recd
Oct 28. 1868

Oct. 28. 1846
Recd of Robert Channing
Stanborough W. S. Colonel of the 18th Regt Mr Wm. J. S. J. S. Treasurer of the United States Pension in host Singl M Washington
Respectfully & affectionately to the Com. of Pensions Pension Office Oct. 27. 1846.
11

Rockingham October 21 - 1846
Dear Sir
I am sorry to be so troublsome as it regards Mr Robert Plewings pension claim But Mr Colman Payne informed me that from the proof of Mr Chiles that the claim had passed the old man is a farther and law of mining and is in very much need and if there is any thing coming it would be very acceptable the old man has made me a power of Attorney to do all his business please write me word wheather Mr Payne can Benefit him or not and by so doing you will much oblige your most Obedient Servant
Alexander Whitlow
Note Be if you write direct your letter to Conrad Stone Rockingham County post office virgin

Stanardsville Va 5 August 6th 1846
To the Pension Agent in host of Washington City
Recd Robt. Cherry
Aug 29/46

Rockingham August 2 1846
Please write me word wheather Coleman Payne has drewed the pension claim of Robert Cheurnings of orange and if he has not what is the chance of getting it as he is very much in want of it and By so doing you will much oblige your most Humble Servant
Alexander Whitlow
Not Be when you write direct your letter conrads Store post office Rockingham County virginia
To the pension a gent washington

Virginia - Rockingham County, Sept.
I Daiby Freeman certify under oath I was acquainted with Robert Chemung before my service in the Revolution and the acquaintance was formed by my visiting Carolina to see my mother's relations. Robert Chemung and myself met in the war near Milliken's Bay in the fall of 1780 and from that time till the surrender of Cornwallis were in almost daily intercourse except when our drafts expired. I think Mr. Chemung served his term du- ring my six months tour in the fall of eighty-one of those times the first I think he served under Capt. Tyler also and acquaintance of mine - and his company was at- tached to ours during the three months. When that draft expired I think Chemung returned home and not long after- wards came down again under Capt. Sullins I think and served about three months with my company and others and we were then discharged. in the Spring of '81 - I was with Mr. Chemung again near Milliken- Bay - at a place called "Mothin Hills" but I cannot name his Captain. Though at the time I knew him for no more together some time there was assembled another draft made in the fall of '81 and I again saw Mr. Chemung on both sides but I cannot say how long he served or under whom he served. He was honored a private - and I saw him again at Hemp- ton near the Bay. Mr. Chemung I always understood left Carolina and moved near the Blue Ridge. but I am.

not say whether such is the fact. I never saw him but twice after the war broke and he was then in Carolina. Of yet also he must be a very old man for he was much my senior, he was a man grown in the war. his Dabney Freeman March
I am to all subscribed before me on this 9th day of October 1845.
As witness my hand and seal this day and date above written. Sam Shacklette
Virginia
Rockingham County ss.
I Henry J. Gambill Clerk of the Court for said County do hereby certify that Samuel Shacklette Esq. is a magistrate as above and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine.
For testimony whereof I have affixed my seal of office and subscribed my name this 10th day of October in the year 1845.
Henry J. Gambill Clerk of the County Court of Rockingham County

Oct 14.
Oldale to can
Robert Chemung
Sumner & Dennis Esq.
Commission of Pensions
Washington D.C.
Oct 14

Harrisonburg Va Oct 9th 1845.
Sir:
The enclosed affidavit of Alvin Freeman as to the services of Robert Chemung of Greene Co. I wish filed and examined together with the papers I left in your office the 20th of last month I think. in Mr. Chemung's cause. The decision when made will please to forward to me. Mr. Freeman is himself a claimant for a pension. I am very Respectfully Coleman Payson
To Mr. L. Edmund Esq. Washington

Sept 22, 1845.
Sealed in case
Robert Channing.
Left by my self Coleman Payne Harrisonburg Virginia

A Monthly Court held in the County of Grant, On Thursday the 11th day of September 1845.
Present.
Oliver Finks, George S. Blakey Elijah H. Davis, and Granville G. 4 Sturtevant Justices. Sturtevant
The Court doth Certify to George W. Cummings Esq. that each of them have been acquainted with Robert Cummings Esq. for many Years, and cheerfully bear testimony to his High Standing for honour and veracity.
He is one of our oldest and most respectable Citizens, and has the perfect confidence of all who know him, as a Man of strict integrity and veracity.
A Copy, Test.
R. Pritchett C. Clerk Grant County Court.
A true Copy from the Record. In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my Seal of Office, and subscribed my name this 15th day of September 1845.
R. Pritchett C. Clerk

35,330
1832

35,652
Robert Chewning J. D. Juniata
Coleman Payne Nov 1845 Alexander Whitelaw Sep 5 1840 Same Nov 7 1848 Hon P Pavele 3 June 1850 B A Prickett Sep 13 1853 J K Martin July 6 1854
1915
June 7 1832

35.652
Sub. to Coleman Payne
No. 14. '45.
let: to Alexander Whitelaw
Sept. 5. 1846,
to Same No. 7. '46
Hon. P. Powell 3 rd June 1852
B. A. Pritchett Sept 13/53
- Oct - 7 June 1852 -

Orange (R.V. Oct 1/43 Alex r Whitelaw with claim of Robt. Eleanor as her Pensioner
Rec d 7 Oct 43 Ans d same day
In R. Cheung Oct 7. June 1832
Respectfully ref d to claim of Pensions & write so informed 3 rd Aud t 's Office 7 Oct 43
Abraham Whitelaw Bucks Mill Oct 7. 1843 Knox co

Greene County October 1843.
Dear Sir.
I have sent you the Declaration of Robert Cheewong and if it is wright please send me a check for the money and if not please send me where it is wrong and oblige your most Humble servant Alexander Whitetown
Notelse when you write to me Direct your letter To Buckersville Greene County Post office A. Whitetown
Mr Peter Hagnor

FREE
Mr. Peter Hagnor Pension Agent
Washington City
in host } or the War office

Treasury Department Pension Arbiters Office December 9 th 1843.
Sir
Your letter of the 15 th inst o in relation to the pension claim of Mr. Robert Channing has been received. In reply I have to inform you that no such claim has been received at this office. In inquiring at the Pension Office I find that you forwarded the claim of Mr. Channing for a pen- sion to that office. I have accordingly referred your letter to the Commis- sioner of Pensions who has charge of the subject.
Very respectfully Sir
Yours obedt servt J. Thompson Acting Secy
Alexander Whitehouse Esq. Pocahontas Co. Green Co. Pa.

R. Chewning
Va Suspended files.
V. Ellis Atty
Ex V. Ellis — aug 1952

State of Virginia } ss. County of Greene }
This day Daniel White personally appeared before me a justice of the peace and made oath in due form of law, That he was well acquainted with old Mr Robert Chewning who is now dead, that he was always regarded as a man of the highest respectability and integrity. That some eight or ten years ago he went to his house for the purpose of preparing his declaration for services in the Revolutionary War, and had conversation with Mr Chewning at that time about his service, and prepared his declaration which was not sent on, on account of some inaccuracy. The old gentleman seemed averse to making application for a pension, as his situation did not require it, being in good circumstances. I recollect distinctly that he said he had served longer than six months, how much longer I do not now remember, but I am confident he spoke of having served upwards of six months in the Revolutionary War. I was in the habit at that day of preparing claims for the old soldiers. I take great pleasure in granting this certificate if it will be of any service to the children of Mr Chewning, as I warmly believe he was entitled to a Pension.
Daniel White
Sworn to and subscribed in my presence and I hereby certify that Daniel White is personally known to me and is a man of high respectability. Given under my hand this 17 Sept 1857. William Sims J.P.

Know all men by these presents, that I Elisha Cheewing Son and and Executor of Robert Cheewing deceased, a party interested in the claim herein mentioned, do hereby constitute and appoint Benjamin A Pritchett of Staunton in Greene County my true and lawful agent and attorney to prosecute the claim of Robert Cheewing now dead for any amount of Revolutionary Pension, or increase of Pension that may be due, and I hereby authorize my said agent and attorney to receive all papers and documents in relation to said claim, and all records on file in the Department at Washington City or elsewhere to file evidence and arguments, and to receive the Certificate which may be issued for said claim, and also to substitute at his will and pleasure any other agent, or agents, and to do all things that I might or could do were I personally present; hereby ratifying and confirming all that my said attorney and agent shall lawfully do in the premises. Witness my hand and seal this 25 day of October 1857. Elisha Cheewing
Witness Oliver Fritts James McCallum
State of Virginia
County of Greene ss:
On this 25 day of October A D 1857 before me the undersigned personally appeared Elisha Cheewing and acknowledged the foregoing Power of Attorney to be his act and deed for the purposes therein mentioned, and also made oath that he is a party directly interested in the claim above mentioned as claimant.
In testimony whereof, I hereunto set my hand the day and year aforesaid.
Oliver Fritts J.P.
I hereby substitute and appoint M c Despazier Elias of Washington City D.C. Agent under the foregoing Power of Attorney.
B. A. Pritchett.

TOP SECRET
Acts of July 14, 1862, and March 3, 1873.
REJECTED
1915
P. O. _____
Robert Cheuning
Service: _____
Enlisted: _____, 18
Discharged: _____, 18
Application filed: _____, 18
Alleges: _____
Re-enlisted: _____
Attorney: _____
P. O. _____
_____ Recognized. _____ Contract.
_____ Cert. of Dis. Searched for _____, 18

35.6.52
Robert Crowning ya
Act 7 June 32-

State of Virginia Orange County To Wit
On this 23 rd day of September 1843 personally appeared in open Court before the Court of Orange County in the State of Virginia Robert Schwning a resident of said County of Orange and State of Virginia aged eighty eight 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 Act of Congress passed June 7 th 1832. That he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers, first under Capt. John Tiler from the County of Caroline and State of Virginia and marched from Chesterfield in said County of Caroline to Malvern hills and joined the Regiment at that place, General Mathes was the Commanding officer, and from thence he marched to Williamsburg remained some time at the latter place the length of time not distinctly recollected from thence he marched to Port Royal on the Rappahannoe and Colo Anthony Thornton was the Commanding officer at Port Royal, he was then after remaining a considerable time at the latter place marched to Richmond remained there for the purpose of guarding the City some three or four weeks then took up a quick march from thence to the County of Culpepper in said State at which place he was taken sick and returned to Caroline and remained at home about three weeks, he then joined the Army again between Caroline and Yorktown remained in the service some two or three months, he then returned home and in some short time was then called out again on an other tour under the Command of Capt James Sutton joined the Army again between the County of Caroline and Richmond, was then some two weeks on an excursion in company with Joseph Jones and David Billo pressing horses - we obtained about thirty and delivered them in the County of Mattaponi  Stafford to the army it was said at that time they were for the French army, we then were ordered to return them to the owners from whom we had pressed them inasmuch as they were not wanting if they would receive them we returned them to the Chesterfield Tavern in the County of Caroline and what became of them he does not know, he was present at the siege at York Town and after the siege returned to his native County Caroline. The various tours of duty he served in the Revolution he does not now recollect owing to the laps of time and infirmity of body.

We Joseph A Mansfield a Clergyman Residing in the County of Orange and State of Virginia and A. A. Thomson residing in said County and State that we are well acquainted with Robert Cheuning who who has Subscribed and Sworn to the above declaration, and we believe him to be fifty eight years of age and that he is reputed and believed in the neighbourhood where he resides to have been a Soldier of the Revolution and that we concur in that opinion J. A. Mansfield A. A. Thomson
Sworn and Subscribed to before me a justice of the peace for the county of Orange - J. A. Newman
State of Virginia, Orange County, to wit:
I, Reynolds Chapman, Clerk of the county Court of Orange, do hereby certify that James B Newman, Esq. is a Magistrate as above, and that the foregoing signature purport- ing to be his, is, as I verily believe, genuine,
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto affixed my seal of Office, and subscribed my name this 25 th day of September 1843.
Reynolds Chapman, Clerk, Orange County Court

= but was in Service of and on for several years and do hereby believe that was in actual Service for more than twelve months. He hereby relinquishes every Claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present and declares that his name is not on the pension Roll of the agency of any State
Robert Schwenning
State of Virginia
Louisa County, to wit:
Personally appeared before me John T. Quarles a justice of the peace in and for said County, Thomas Schwenning aged seventy one or seventy two years and made oath in due form of Law, that he knows his brother Robert Schwenning who has made the foregoing declaration did serve in the Revolutionary War, but how long he does not now recollect and I the said John T. Quarles do hereby certify that I am well acquainted with the said Thomas Schwenning and consider him a credible person, and believes he is as old as he states himself to be.
Thomas Schwenning
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 30 th day of September 1821, 3
John T. Quarles a justice of the peace of Louisa County
State of Virginia
Louisa County, to wit:
I John Hunter clerk of the County Court of the County aforesaid, do hereby certify that John T. Quarles esq r is a Magistrate as above, and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my seal of Office and subscrib- ed my name this 30 th day of Sep- tember 1821, 3.
John Hunter clerk of Louisa County Court

Virginia Robert Cheewning Act 7 June 1832 Suspended
Power of Attorney Filed by John K Martin Richmond June 30/32 m

STATE OF Virginia COUNTY OF Orange
} ss:
Be it known, that on this Twenty Sixth day of June , A. D. eighteen hundred and fifty five , before the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid, personally appeared Elisha Cheewning , a resident of Orange  in said County, and made oath according to law, that he is a Son and the Executor of Robert Cheewning who made a Declaration for a Revolutionary Pension under act 7 th day of March 1832. and whose claim seems to be suspended for further proof of Service.
that he is directly interested, as aforesaid, as a claimant, and makes this affidavit for the purpose of obtaining such _____ of Pension as may be due under any of the Laws, Regulations, or decisions that have been or may hereafter be adopted. The said Affiant further declares that he hereby constitutes and appoints JOHN K. MARTIN , of the City of Richmond and State of Virginia, to be Attorney and Agent to prosecute said claim, with power of substitution, to examine all papers and documents in relation to it, and to do all things necessary and lawful in the premises; except drawing the money, which will be hereafter provided for.
Elisha Cheewning
Sworn to and subscribed, the day and year aforesaid, before me.
J B Newman J. Peace.
I, James B Newman Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid, do hereby certify that Elisha Cheewning , above-named, is a respectable resident of this County, and is, as I believe, directly interested in said claim as therein set forth, and acknowledges the above Power of Attorney to be this act and deed.
J B Newman J. Peace.
In testimony that the above-named James B Newman was a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, at the date of the same, I hereby subscribe my name and affix the County Seal. This 26 th  June 1854
Philip S Fry  Atty Orange County court V.W.
County Seal