Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 8654, John Davis, New Jersey

SERVICE
NUMBER
New Jersey
Davis, John Margaret
W. 8654
CONTENTS

Virginia 16220
John Davis — Levi (in the State of Virginia who was a Drummer in the Com commanded by Captain Longstreet of the regt commanded by Col Henderson in the N. Jersey line for one year, red from 2 years,
Inscribed on the Roll of Wheeling Agency at the rate of 44 Dollars — Cents per annum, to commence on the 14th day of March, 1837 — Redu- ced from $88.
Certificate of Pension issued the 15 day of August 1839, & sent to the Pensioner at Weston, Lewis Co. Virginia
Arrears to the 14th of Mar 1839 $88.00
Pemi=ant. allowance ending 4 Sep '39 22.00
$110.00
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by D. M. Curdy, Clerk. book 8, Vol. 6 1/2 Page 9.

24972 State of Virginia County of Harrison
On this 16 day of April A.D. 1833 personally appeared in Open Court before the Justices of the County Court of Harrison County now sitting, John Davis a resident of Green Briar Fork of Middle Island Creek Settlement in S d County of Harrison aged Twenty Seven 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 and served as herein stated. That on the first of March 1777 he was drafted to go a tour of three months as a private, from Monmouth County, State of New Jersey under Capt. Stephen Fleming, Marched into Middlesex County, To the Town of Perth Amboy, there was attached to a Regiment commanded by Col. Heard, Genl. Mepher Was there Stationed, in about ten days, after his officers arrival there, he received the appointment of Drum Major, (in which Capacity he continued to act during the period for which he was drafted) was marched from thence by way of Middle Town Point to Sandy Hook, made an attempt to go to the Highlands on Sandy Hook Point, was beat back by the firing from the British Shipping, from thence marched back to the Highlands, and was engaged for a while preventing the Refugees from plundering the inhabitants, there was placed under the command of Capt. Fleming

was marched Southward about twenty Miles, to Shark river Salt works, continued there, until time of Service had expired under his draft, gu- -arding said Works, and marching upon all al- -arms to the several points from whence they came to repel the enemy was dismissed by his capt. --- Fleming and returned home. The country Remaining in great danger, and frequent plunder- -ing and robbery, being heard of, affiant on the first of July following Volunteered to go on a tour of one month as a private in the new Service of Artillery under Capt. John Kearney, from Monmouth County, New Jersey State, (Lieut. Joshua Bruneff) was again appointed Quartermaster in Capt. Dennis's company. Marched to the Head of Barnagat Bay, to was then -re placed under the Command of Genl. Foreman and attached to Col. Daniel Hendersons Regi- -ment, continued at Barnagat Bay guarding Salt Works until time had expired for which he Volunteered, and was discharged by his Capt. Dennis.
In March 1778 he was again called into Service in a company commanded by Capt. Thos. Shide- more to Tinton Falls & remained guarding on the sea Shore for the term of three Months & was discharged.
In July following he was again called into Service under Capt. Garret Longstreet was stationed at Squares Salt Works to guard the sea shore & continued there three Months & discharged. immediately after the expiration of some company was employed as before in some kind of Service for three Months & discharged.
In the Spring he believes in March 1779 he was called into Service under the command of Capt. Ephraim Buck was stationed at Colts neck & was employed as before

In guarding the Shore for Three Months I discharged In Sept r following he was drafted & placed under Capt. John Walton was stationed on the Shore & im- -ployed as before for Three Months I discharged -
In June 1780 was drafted in a company commanded by Capt. Joshua Bennett was stationed at Veston Falls the company was attached to a Regt. commanded by Col. Daniel Henderson I Genl. Forman was discharged having served Three Months
In May 1781 he was again drafted under Capt. Daniel Hampton attached to a same Regt. stationed at Squans Saltworks & unplayed as before on the Sea Shore to prevent the landing of the enemy was discharged at the expiration of one Month
In Sept. same year was called out again under same officers & imployed in same service for Three Months I discharged - deponent further states that he was frequently called into service in case of alarm & served a few days each time but cannot recollect the particulars all the above discharges were oral. & all the above service performed as a private. he has seen Govt. Washington & De la Fayette. he further states that he was born in Monmouth county New Jersey on the 1 st day of May 1755 as he is informed having no record of his age at 37 years of age he removed to Hampshire County Va where he now resides - he has no docu- -mentary evidence by which to prove the above but refers to the deposition of his Brother John Paris hereto annexed. He hereby relinquishes all claim to a pension or annuity except the present & declares that his name is not inscribed on the Pension list of the Army of any State For his Character & reputation for Truth Truth the

would refer to Capt. Wm Williams Col John Davis -ville & William Harker of his neighbourhood
Re Jesse M Chapman John Davis
a clergyman residing in the county of Hardin & state of Virginia and James Fleming residing in the same place do hereby certify that that we are well acquainted with John Davis who has sworn & subscribed the above declaration that we believe him to be 77 years of age that he is respected & believed in the neighbourhood where he resides to have been a soldier of the Revolution & that we concur in that opinion
Sworn & subscribed to Jesse M Chapman this 16 th April 1833 J. H. Fleming
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion after the investigation of the matter and after putting the interrogatory interrogatory prescribed by the War Dept. that the above named applicant was a revolutionary soldier & served as he states and the Court do further certify that it appears to them that Jesse M Chapman who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman residing in this county and that James Fleming residing in same is a credible person & that their statement is entitled to credit
William Davis appeared in Court & being sworn saith that he is the Brother of John Davis who hath signed the above declaration that he is 75 years of age that he was a soldier in the War of the Revolution that he remembers that his Brother also served as he states under Col. Dennis Col. Longstreet & Col. Hampton he further states that his Brother was called into the service frequently & at various times but how long or at what time he does not recall Sworn & subscribed
I certify that Mr Davis who has signed the above certificate is a credible man respected & believed to be a man of truth
Joseph Johnson Jr R

No 24972 John Davis Harrison County Virginia
Rev
Ref. to W. Edward.
Admit as Drummer
Q. 1st. $88 =
e. j. m.
J. Johnson Bridgeport Virg a

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office,
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, showing the Service of John Dairs Harrison County Virginia
   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.     Draf. Mar. 1777 - 3 11 private Col Heard, Genl. 77 years Traditionary evidence certified   Vol. July 1777 - 1 15 Drummer Chester County of Credible - One witness certified credible.   Called out Mar. 1778 - 3 1 Major Genl. Foreman, Col Monmouth Papers correctly attached   Called out July 1778 - 3 1 " Henderson, Regt. N. Jersey   Vol. - 3 1 Drummer   Called. Spg. 1779 - 3 1   Drafted Sept. 79 - 3 1   Drafted June 1780 - 3 - Col Henderson   Drafted May 1781 - 1 1   Called out Sept. 1781 - 3 -  
* years battwork + " see share # 10 mo. 5 + 17 " } 17 mo. 5
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 direct 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 procure, taken and authenticated before a Court of Record, showing the services of the deceased, the period 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.

Certificate for obtaining the Deposition of a single Witness as before to auth that he sincerely believes that Elder John Davis blame or defer on a Maternal point thing in a case of a pension Depen- ding where in I am a Witness. Whereas I reco- lect of the said John Davis being called out in the service of his country time of the  time of the The old Revolution war different times as a Drummer and that he was out in the service at the Battle of Monmouth and I further recollect that the said John Davis and his Brother William Davis was both taken prisoners by the Ruffians and Robbed of all their property and I also recollect he was consid- a part full shalger to the End of the war.
William G. Davis
I Certify that William G. Davis personally appeared before me Father Davis a Justice of the peace for Harrison County and made oath the above certificate is true given under my hand this 10 th day of
February 1836
Stephen Davis Jr.
I Matthew Riley a Justice of the Peace in & for Harrison County, do certify that I am well acquainted with the above deponent William G. Davis and that he is a credible person & that his statement is entitled to credit

Wm. G. Davis
affidavit
Wm. G. Johnson H.R.
Given under my hand 16 th May 1836.
Matthew Neely W.P.
Virginia Harrison County } Town
I David Davidson Clerk of the County Court of Harrison do hereby certify Jonathan Fels Randolph before whom the foregoing affidavit of William Davis to have been in a Justice of the peace for said County duly commissioned & qualified and that the signature purporting to be his is genuine. Further that Nathan Davis before whom the foregoing affidavit of Wm. G. Davis appears to have been made is a Justice of the peace duly commissioned & qualified and that his the signature purporting to be his is also genuine. And further that Matthew Neely who attests to the credibility of the said William Davis & Wm. G. Davis is a Justice of the peace for said County duly commissioned and qualified and that the foregoing signatures purporting to be his are genuine.
Wm. G. Johnson H.R.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal of office this 16 th day of May 1836.
H. R.ampson

11939.
1853 Febry 22. To Jas. Binnu
Virginia Wheeling. Margaret Davis widow of John Davis
who served in the Revolutionary war, as a drummer.
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 44 dollars 11 1/4 cents per annum, to commence on the 3d February, 1853.
Certificate of Pension issued 10 th day of Febry 1853. and sent to
James Bennett Weston Va.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 3, 1853, Page 122 Vol. A (32)

State of Virginia County of Lewis ss. fo.
On this 1 st day of January, in the year 1855, personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace within and for the County and State aforesaid, Margaret Davis, a resident of Leading Creek Settlement, in the County of Lewis and State aforesaid, aged eighty-four years, who first being duly sworn according to law, on her oath, makes the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed on the 3 rd February, 1853, granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary war; That she is the widow of John Davis, who was a soldier in the said war, she believes in the New Jersey line, but she does not know in what rank he served, nor the time when he entered and left the service, nor does she know the names nor rank of the Officers under whom the service was performed; nor the place in which he resided when he entered the service. She states that the said John Davis was a pensioner of the United States, at $88. per annum, commencing on the 1 st day of March, 1831, and she presumes under the act of Congress of the 7 th June 1832, and she refers to his declaration on file as she supposes in the Pension Office and to the letter of Joseph Johnson, now Governor of the State of Virginia, dated at "Bridgeport, Augt. 1 st 1833." addressed to Messrs. John & W m Davis, herewith submitted, as evidence in this behalf.
She further declares that she was married to the said John Davis on the day of Augt. 1814 or 1815, (but is not certain which year) in Harrison County in the State of Virginia, by the Rev. John Waldo, a minister in the Baptist Church; that her said husband died on the 20 th June, 1842, in the said County of Lewis; that she was not married to him prior to the second of January

eighteen hundred, but at the time above stated. She further declares that she is now a widow. and has been a widow ever since the death of her said husband.
Margret Davis
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written, before me a Justice of the Peace as aforesaid,
And I Certify that the said Margaret Davis is per- sonally well known to me, that she resides near seven- teen miles from the Court house of Lewis County, in which she resides and from her great age and bodily infirmity is unable to attend Court.
William Woyton J.P.
State of Virginia County of Lewis
On this 1 st day of January, in the year 1855, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace, within and for the County and State aforesaid, Benjamin Shannon, a resident of the said County, who having been first duly sworn according to law, on his oath says that he was personally and familiarly acquainted with John Davis for many years before his death, and with his wife, now a widow, and the same who has sworn to and subscribed the above declaration, that he knew them to live together as man and wife for many years prior to his death, which took place on the 20 th June 1842, to his own personal knowledge. That they were generally re- puted and believed to be lawfully man & wife, and he has no doubt of the fact. Benj s Shannon
Sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year aforesaid, and I Certify that the said

Shannon is a credible person and worthy of belief. William Wooford P.

Virginia, Harrison County Court Clerks' office
"Marriages celebrated by the subscriber in 1814 in Harrison County Va
August 21 st John Davis to Margaret Kelso.
A true Copy Teste
John J. Waldo "
I, Phineas Chapin Clerk of Harrison County Court hereby certify that the foregoing is a true extract from the records of my office
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court this 5 th day of January AD 1855.
P. Chapin Clk

Raritan, New Jersey WIDOW, &c.
File No. 8654
Margaret Davis Wid.
John Davis Serant Rev. War.
Act: Feby 3 d  1853
Index:—Vol. A , Page 168
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Virginia 16.220
John Davis
of Harrison in the State of Virginia who was a Drummer in the company commanded by Captain Longstreet of the Regt. commanded by Col. Henderson in the New Jersey line for 2 years Reduced to $44 per ann. to commence March 4, 1837
Inscribed on the Roll of Virginia at the rate of 88 Dollars 50 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1837.
Certificate of Pension issued the 18 th day of July '33 and sent to Mrs. Johnson Bridgeport Va.
  Arrears to the 4th of March '33-  176    Pemi-ant. allowance ending 4 Sept "  44     $220  
{ Revolutionary Claim } { Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by Wm Miller Clerk Book E. Vol. 6. Page 6.
Claimant Weston Lewis Co. Va.
Act 21 March 1837 - Pensions    5 May  " Rich. Atkinson    17 June  " William Goff    23 July  "    20 Nov.  1835 to John Davis    21 Dec.  " Hon. Jos. Johnson    24 Mar.  "36    26 May  "    29 June '36  - Sec. War. enclosing 12 pawns -    10 Jan. '37  - Hon. D. Wardnell & R  

16220 Margaret Davis Aunt
Supp
Brynton Jan 13/55
Free
Hon. L. P. Waldo, Comt. of Pensions, Washington City, D.C.

Let. to Hon. F. Pierce ("O.C.") June 19, 1840.
Das Bennett May 6 1832, y (form. for declaration for under rent)

Copy John Davis
of Harrison Co. W. Va sent to Hon. J. Johnson H. R.
7165 16220 23777 10000
Shep Mr Ome 2616
23777

Copy of Rec d of Mad. W. K. Harrison Co. Va. & Dept. Co. 1720 June 4 th , 2 Rev. & 10 d
"Baptist."

Jan'y: 13 th 1855.
Margaret Davis,
Wid: of John.
Lewis Co: Va:
Act/53. Pensions: 14.4.25 per Annum; Comm. Feb. 3. 1853.
Rev:
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, Pension Office, Official Business.
Secy: Bennett, N. Boston.
Commissioner.

John Davis Va
pen $ 8.00 notes - $4.00
to Col
John H. Calhoun
5
Com. of Pensions Washington 25, D.C.
5298
Margaret Davis M rs of John
H. to Jas. Bennett Jan'y: 16/55. " " " 28/55. " " " "
100/53

John Davis act June 7, 1832 placed on Va. roll $88 per ann.
Copies of papers sent to him for John N. H. No 679. 1839.
offered for sale
offered for sale
See letter to Hon. T. Morris, 25- Feb. 1839

Rev
Hon. S. P. Waldo, Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D.C.
Davis Margaret
4939

John Davis.
EX.

Margaret Davis P.O. Box 100 Washington D.C.
Febry 2/55
Free
The Commissioners of Pensions, Washington City, D.C.

Margaret Davis Quiet Boston
Boynton Jan 27/55
Free
The Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D.C.

The War Office. Feb. 1, 1855.
Sir, Please certify, the time to which the within named pension was paid on the date of his death.
Very Respectfull,
J Mansel
Commission.
Feb 22 nd 42
W. B. Randall,
A. J. Atkinson, Esq. Third Auditor. Navy.

John Davis died 22 June 1842, paid in full.
Robt Johnson
Auditor

M c Dam D r Nuh
Ha C o
Apr 13
16220
765
2377
Free
James L Edwards Esq r Comm r of pensions Washington City

of any communication to be made Please Direct, to J. C. Davis Weston Lewis County

Hon. Joseph Johnson's case - John Davis
W. J. says if anything can be allowed Davis, give him even the lowest pension.
Davis can make no further effort to establish his claim
May 28. 1836
To what time has John Davis of Virginia been paid, under Act June 7. 1832, annu al- $88 per ann
A. H. B.
pt. 4 th March 1834 JH
Pen Off
Third Aud. Off
Aug 13 1839
88 3 44 6 264 264

State of Virginia County of Lewis 3 ss.
On this 25 th day of January, 1853, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace, within and for the County of Lewis in the State of Virginia, Margaret Davis, who being by me duly sworn according to law, upon her oath aforesaid, says that she the said Margaret is the widow of the identical John Davis, who was a revolutionary pensioner of Lewis County and State of Virginia; That her name previous to her marriage with the said John Davis was Margaret Kelso; and that she is the identical Margaret Davis, who recently made her declaration, under oath, before William Wooster Esq. in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed on the 3 rd Feby. 1853, which she is informed has been received in the Pension Office, examined, and suspended.
Margaret Davis
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written, before me a Justice of the Peace as aforesaid.
William Wooster J.P.
State of Virginia County of Lewis 3 ss.
On this 25 th day of January, 1853, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace within and for the County and State aforesaid, Benjamin P. Shannon and Amos Wooster who being duly sworn according to law, upon their oath do say, that they know of their own personal knowledge that Margaret Davis, who

made the above affidavit and whose name is signed thereto, is the widow of the identical John Davis who was a revolutionary pensioner of Lewis County in the State of Virginia. And the said Shannon further declares and says, that to his own personal knowledge the above affiant is the identical Margaret Davis who recently made her declaration before Mr. Wooster Esq. as she has stated in her said affidavit, appended to which declaration is, or was an affidavit of the said Shannon testifying to the death of the said John Davis. Benj a P. Shannon. Amos Wooster
Sworn to and subscribed before me a Justice of the Peace as aforesaid, on the day and year above written. And I certify that the above Benj a P. Shannon and Amos Wooster are personally well known to me and that they are credible persons. William Wooster J.P.
Virginia
Lewis county
I John Morrow clerk of the county court of Lewis county certify that William Wooster before whom the foregoing affidavits were made is an acting Justice of the peace in and for the county and State aforesaid duly commissioned and qualified, and was such at the time of taking said affidavits, and that full faith and credit is due and ought to be given to all his acts as such, and that the foregoing signatures purporting to be his very truly believe to be genuine In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed the seal of Lewis county and subscribed my name this 27th day of January 1855. John Morrow clerk of Lewis county court

Harrison County State of Virginia
The amended Declaration of John Davis.
Personally appeared before me Joseph Johnson a justice of the peace for the County of aforesaid John Davis who being duly sworn saith, That his residence during the Revolutionary War was in the County of Northampton and State of New Jersey as stated in his former Declaration that in consequence of his residence being near the Sea Board and for several years near the Seat of War he held himself in readiness at all times to march at a minute's warning for belonging as he did to what was called the Whig Party he volun- teered his services as often as his circumstances would admit. That on several occasions when called out with his company as a class upon a sudden emergency and march to the point from which the alarm came. He volunteered and con- tinued in service several months. Such was the case in several of the Tours described in his former Declaration to wit.
In March 1778 under Capt. Thos. Shadcock at Linton a fall at which time he served as a volun- teer three months the said company was not attached to any other Corps during said tour but was employed in guarding the sea shore. Again in July following the entire company to which he belonged commanded by Capt. Longstreet was or- dered into service & stationed at Tquans Salt Works after some short time a portion of the aforesaid

company was discharged & the balance retained to guard said Salt works deponent was one of the latter and continued to serve three months the Capt Longstreet was a commissioned Officer and deponent was drafted and served as above stated.
In March 1779 he was drafted together with one half of the entire company to which he belonged com- manded by Capt Ephraim Buck was stationed atolls neck near the sea shore and was discharged at the expiration of three months as described in his former Declaration.
Again in Sept 1781 he was ordered into service under Capt Hampton marched to square Salt Works and after a short time a portion of the company was discharged when deponent volunteered and continued at the place and under the aforesaid Capt Hampton for the term of three months he was em- ployed as a drummer during the whole of his services under Capt Hampton and was attached to Col Daniel Ben- derson Regt. He further states that during the whole of the above service he was commanded by officers duly commissioned as he then understood and now believes and that he was not employed in any civil pursuit during such periods, he further states that he does not know of any living witness who can testify to the above services except his broth- er Wm Davis whose deposition was heretofore annexed
Sworn & Subscribed before me this 4 th day of June 1833 Joseph Johnson J.P. John Davis

I David Davison Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of the County of Harrison do hereby certify that Joseph Johnson who has signed the amended Declaration of John Davis, is an acting Justice of the peace for the County aforesaid and also that the signature purporting to be his is genuine. I further certify that his signature attached to the Disposition of Mr Davis in the original declaration - certifying to the credibility of the said Davis as a witness is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of my office this 5 th day of June 1833.
David Davison B.A.

Payments to be made at Richmond by the Presd: U.S. Br: Bank Agent for paying Pension- ers, in the Agency of Virginia
181. Recorded in the Pension Of- fice, in Book E. Vol. 6. Page 6 by Wm Miller Clerk.

WAR DEPARTMENT.
Revolutionary Claim.
I certify that, in conformity with the law of the United States of the 7th June, 1832, John Davis of the State of Virginia who was a Drummer in the war of the revolution is entitled to receive — Eighty Eight — dollars and _____ cents per annum, during his natural life, commencing on the 4th of March, 1831, and payable semi-annually on the 4th of March, and 4th of September, in every year.
GIVEN at the War Office of the United States, this 18 th day of July one thousand eight hundred and thirty- three
acting John Davis Secretary of War.
Examined and } Countersigned. }
J. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions.

I David Dampson Clerk of the Court of Harrison County do certify that the foregoing contains the Original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of John Davis for a pension
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of Office this 22 d day of April 1833
D Dampson T

181.
June 29. 1836. Pension Office
Report the v. revenue 30 and the papers on the subject
Hon. Aaron Bishop Secretary of War Washington City

Weston, Lewis County, No a June 20 th 1836
Hon. Lewis Cass Secretary of war
I have been informed, through the politeness of the Hon. Joseph Johnson that upon a further investigation of my claim, for right to be reinstated on the pension roll, you have come to the conclusion, to place my name on the roll at $14. per annum after first accounting to the department for the difference between this sum and the sum which allowed me in my pension certificate which was $88. per annum, and I drew a pension three years, and then my pension was suspended. I honestly conceive myself entitled to the amount first allowed me. I had supposed I had furnished satisfactory proof of the fact, but it seems it has not been so construed and I know of no other proof now in existence that I can procure at this late period was I not old, poor & needy I would not

have solicited the government for assistance I am now between 81 and 82 years of age - and according to the Information rec d by the Hon. Dr. Johnson I could not draw anything before Sep r . 1837 and not then perhaps if interest should be excised? and against that time in all human probability I may not need any pecuniary assistance If I could be allowed (consistently) the $144 per annum commencing at the 11 th March 1834 the time my pension was suspended, I should be enabled to release my self from the single demands agst me, that otherwise must embarrass me, always confidently believing that I should be reinstated in the amount that I had here- -tofore drawn, I hope therefore that it may appear reasonable & just to your Honor to rein- -state me as a pensioner in such a way as to allow me (if no more) the sum of $144 per annum to commence at the time my pension was suspended without exacting the amount that (has been can- -celled) I had over drawn?
Your Ob t & Hum l Serv t
John Davis

Aug 14
va
J. P. Schwab Esqr
153/4
Con in person J. Parsons
Making true Bills
W. Stone Esqr August 14

Weston Lewis County Virginia Augst 1 st 1839.
Dear Sir
I was plac'd on the pension List under the act of congress of the 7 th June 1832. and drew a pension of $88. per Annum from 1 st of March 1831 to the 4 th March 1834 my pay as a pensioner was then sus- pended, until further proof of my Military services should be furnished to the department. Which I attempted to comply with but was not thought sufficient to to authorise me to full pay as a pensioner (as formerly).
The department informed me through Col. Johnson the Member of congress from this district. (as well as I now represent) that they had come to the conclusion, that I was entitled to half what I had formerly drawn per annum, but reg d . that I should refund what I had rec d from the government over and above what they concerved I was entitled; I felt my self justly entitled to full pay as first drawn, under the act of 7 th June 1832 altho I may have failed to satisfy the depart- ment of that, by strict proof, and have had the subject twice before congress. and each time a bill passed that body; allowing me half pay from the time my pension pay was suspended

but owing to the great press of business, was not taken up in the other branch of congress, before its adjournment each session. I am now so far advanced in years I think I am in the eighty fifth year of my age, and am poor & indigent and am desirous that the department would restore me to such pecuniary as they shall think just and right, from the evidence before them, I can't expect to live much longer, and had better (probably) accept half the amt. of what I formerly drew after being delayed until what I had over drawn would be first settled, - Under this arrangement there would be something due me, I hope therefore I may be placed on the pension list, and forward me a pension certificate, for an amount that I may be considered justly entitled
Very Respectfully Your Obedt Servt.
John Davis
ps. please correspond with the Meeder of this place Hoffmans Esq., who is my agent in my business in this behalf
John Davis

I William Davis of Harrison County Pa the subscriber hereto do certify that John Davis late of this county now living in Lewis County did to my certain knowledge serve different tours during the Revolutionary war in the state of New Jersey during the I cannot say to a certainty how long he did serve during that war. but I believe he served at least twenty four month. Given under my hand this 11 th day of January 1836.
William Davis
Harrison County (to wit)
Personally appeared before me (a justice of the peace for this County) the above named William Davis and made oath that the above statements is just and true. Given under my hand this 11 th day of January 1836.
Jonathan Fitzrandolph. J.P.

I Matthew Nulty a Justice of the Peace in & for the County of Harrison Virginia, do certify that I am well acquainted within the within deponant William Davis, and that he is a credible person and that his statement is entitled to full credence.
Given my hand 16 May 1836.
Matthew Nulty J.P.
William Davis Affidavit
Hon. Jos. Johnson H.R.

Business Office
Hon. Joseph Johnson House Representative
Hon. J. Johnson H.R.

Department of War Pension Office May 26. 1836.
Sir I have in the affidavit of Mr Davis, to be used in the case of the claim of John Davis of Harniss County, and have filed it with his papers.
Mr Davis merely states, that he knows that the claimant was in service from time to time. Of this fact, the Department was before satisfied, as was expressed in my letter to you of the 29th of March last. In my letter to you on the 29th of March; and in my several letters to Mr Shepard, Mr Goff, and the claimant himself, these objections have been explicitly stated, and no testimony can be expected to prove a service which in fact was never rendered. To attempt, on the part of Mr Davis, to establish the fact that he performed eight hours of military service in New Jersey or three months each, will be unavailing, as no such service was ever performed by any one in that state during the war of the revolution.
I have the honor to be
Respectfully Yours obedient Servt
J. L. Edwards
to H. H. Johnson Hans Representative,

nd a roll
John Davis — Pen
Harrison city
780
Eulalia.

John Davis deans of 80 —
on the 31 st July 1834. Mr. Davis gave the following Statement — is in his 79 th year of age is a native of Newbury, was 37 yrs old when he enlisted in Harwich etc —
in the year 1777. he volunteered for one month under Capt. Stephen Fleming. marched from Shrewsbury to Portsmouth then joined Col. Heed's Battalion. under Genl. Mercer, went to Sandy Hook — directly after the preceding term expired. in the same year he volunteered for two months under Saml Captain — and served in the same place — but on Company at 1777 3 in the service, it was guarding the salt works at Shark River.
in the 1778. (he thinks) served a 3 mo. term under Capt. John Dennis. at Barnegat Bay, only on Company in the service —
1778 6 In same year served a further 3 mo. term under Capt. Longstreet at Agnes Salt works. but on Company with some in the year 1778. & 1779. (he thinks) he served a 3 mo. term under Capt. John Bennett. last of the term was at 3 Trenton Falls — only on Company in service.
in 1779. & 1780. served a 3 mo. term under Capt. Garrett Longstreet. — in the two last mentioned terms. was under 3 the direction of Col. H. Underwood —
the next service perhaps in 1781. he served a 3 months term under Capt. Ephraim Root at Trenton Falls but the on company at New Station — perhaps in same year served a further term of 3 mo. at some place under Capt. Fleming but on Company. at the Station — thinks in same year he a further term of 3 mo. under Capt. Bennett. at same 9 place but on Company at the Station.
he Davis does not pretend that the Statement above given is strictly correct as to dates. or classification of of officers — but of the he is certain. that he did serve the terms above stated — and in the whole longer than two years — for Johnson wrote his declaration. States to him in substance what he now states — gave Johnson $ 20.
In Witness that the foregoing Statement contains the truth he hereto subscribes his name. July 31. 1834
John Davis Henry W. Goring Atty Nov. 21. 1834

Weston, Lewis County, Virginia, Oct. 24 th 1835
John Davis, late of Harrison County Va. who this day applied to me, to take his affidavit Explanatory of his declaration, upon which he obtained a pension Certificate from the war department who after being first duly sworn, has made the following statement., he states that he was born in the state of New Jersey, and lived there until he was about thirty seven years of age, that he lived in that state during the revolutionary war that he went into the army of the revolution in the year 1776 or 1777, and continued in the service the most of the time, until the year 1781 or 1782 that he was principally engaged in guarding the Tories & Refugees, on the Sea Board; he states the drafts were for one month, but that after he was cal'd out, into the service he was kept generally three months, before he could get his discharge, & sometime longer; he states that the salt works on the sea board had to be continually guarded, and the British was a most constantly about New York or in Jersey, that there was such a call for troops, that they could not get their

discharge at the expiration of the term for which they were drafted, this affiant states in conferring with his agent that drew up his declaration, he did not know the importance of particularising. The time of the drafts, I thought it only necessary to set forth the time. He had served in the Revolution, with such particulars & circumstances as he could remember,, This affiant states there was no regularity as to the time of service with those that had no families, altho. it was understood. The drafts were but for one month at a time, there was such a call for troops, and being a single man at that time, was scarcely ever discharged under a term of three months and on some occasions longer, this he assigns as the reason, that it was set out in his declaration that the terms of his service were three months or some of them at least,, H H
John Davis
Levis County Court
The above named John Davis this day appeared before me a magistrate in and for the said county, and signed and subscribed the foregoing statement and made oath to the truth of the same given under my hand at Weston this 24 th day of October 1835
Wesley Hoffman J. P.

Blackney March 2. 1835
The undersigned W. G. Singleton has been called on by John Davis who has been sworn to the annexed affidavit, to state what he knows and believes of his (Davis') character, and of the character of William Hoffmeyer Esq. before whom the said affidavit was made - the undersigned, in the investigation of the Davis case, received through Mr. Davis important information, which led to the detection of several fraudulent cases, among them was the case of William Davis of Ohio. (Reference is respectfully made to the report of the undersigned in said case) This fact together with Mr. D's frankness and fairness, satisfies the undersigned, that he was entitled to the amount awarded him. Notwithstanding the discrepancies in his two statements, which the undersigned attributes to frailty of memory - the undersigned has been impressed by evidence of integrity, that the character of Mr. Davis is as good as any man in the county, and that he has been a highly respectable minister of the Gospel for upwards of thirty years - the character of William Hoffmeyer Esq. is also all unimpeachable.
Signed. W. G. Singleton

Weston, Lewis County, Virginia Feby 19 th 1836
Hon. Lewis Kepp Secretary of war
Sir
Mr John Davis, of this county has again cal'd upon me, to certify to your depart- ment, in further confirmation of his services as Soldier of the Revolution, who states as follows: He states that in the year 1777 in the month of April he Volunteered as a Drummer under Capt e Stephen Flemming Marched to Bruboy, where the Company joined Col o Herards Batallion under Gen l Merser, then marched to Sandy Hook, in order to destroy the light House & fill up the well, in order to prevent the British from Landing & getting water etc. but before Reg t got near the Light House the British lay near there, and fired up the american Troops. and repulsed them: Then the American Troops retired to the Highlands where the troops remained until the month had expired for which he had volunteered. Mr Davis states that he Immediately Volunteered again under the same Capt e and stayed in the service two months after that the company's were closed, some ran to the British others hid in woods & swamps, 5 th Davis states he (after being closed) was drafted for one month, but continued in the service three months before he returned home, with in three days after he returned home, the Tories collected and took him said Davis with some other prisoners. & took his clothes, Drum. Horse & bedding, in a day or two after the Tories let their captives go. but took with them the horse and other plunder which he said Davis never got, said Davis states that he very shortly after, entered the service again and volunteered for a month at a time and when his month expired, he again volunteered, and continued to

to Volunteer in like manner untill the year 1781 with the Exception of three months, Gen l . Washington having sent Col. Ford's Battalion to relieve them for that space of time? S d Davis States, that the Forces were so troublesome as well as the British, the Militia were (during the time mentioned) were Compell'd to be in actual service, S d Davis States that at the time he made his declaration to the War department for a pension, that it did not occur to him that the drafts were for but one month in New Jersey, he frequently continned in the service three months before he left the army, and that his attention at that time was not cal'd to the fact. The calls or drafts were but for a tour of one month at a time: his particular object was to detain his the length of time he was in the service and the particular occurrences. S d Davis States that he is such a length of time has elapsed since his old, and, his Revolutionary services, was performed that it is impossible for him, to be able to detail all that then transpired, specifically. John Davis
Sussex County ss
The above named John Davis this day appeared before me and made oath in due form of Law that the foregoing statement (which is subscribed by him) is true to the best of his knowledge and belief given under my hand at Wester the 19 th of February 1836
Merdon Hoffman Justice of the peace in and for said County

Bridgeport Va August 2nd
Free J. Johnson
Rev. John Davis New Salem
Georgia

Gentlemen
Bridgeport Sept. 1 st 1933
It affords me much pleasure to be enabled to inform you that the last Mail brought the certificates placing you on the Pension list John Davis at $89. per annum and William Davis at $63.33 cents per annum, commencing on the 11 th of March 1931
As the 11 th of Sept r is near at hand perhaps it would be best not to draw until that time, when you can draw two and a half years pay. Should it not be convenient for you to come to my house, I will make out the necessary papers and send them to Squire Randolph, who will take your acknowledgement and return them to me. Please drop me a line through the Mail, and let me know your wish in the matter.
With great respect & esteem I remain your friend.
Mrs. John & Wm Davis
D. Johnson

War Department Pension Office June 29. 1836
Sir,
In relation to the case of John Davis, I have the honor to state to you, that when his claim was first admitted, reliance was placed on the statement he made under oath, and a full pension was granted. He alleged two years service in tours of three months each in the New Jersey militia; but after it was ascertained that the militia of that State performed tours of only one month each, the pension was suspended for further proof and an explanatory statement. He has made explanations, which will be found under envelope marked EX . These explanations from the good character Mr. Davis sustains, may be deemed sufficient to remove any unfavorable impressions which may have been made in the case; but they furnish no reason for supposing that he served so long as two years. I thought the Department would be justified under the circumstances, in allowing a pension for twelve months service. This was assented to; but the claimant does not wish to refund the amount overpaid; and from this decision of the Office

he now appeals to the Secretary of War.
Owing to the discrepancies in the statements exhibited it is not possible to determine how long he actually served.
A return of the papers is respectfully requested.
I have the honor to be Very respectfully Your Ob't. Serv't. J. L. Edwards
Hon. Lewis Cass, Secretary of War

W. H. HALL
J. H. Edwards Esq. Comr of Pensions War Office Washington City

J. L. Edwards Esq, Clarkburg V a 19 Ap 1835 Sir
By letter recd from my friend in Richmond/Col Margaret to whom we sent J n Davis's Claim, filed at the War office 18 July 1833 n o 16.220 - I am informed that said Davis is not returned on the pension Roll, I believe that of John Neelys is in the same situation n o 12,107 It will be doing an Act of kindness to examine and if correct, to have those men placed on the Roll at Richmond - and if you will be good enough to address me on the subject it will oblige
Sir
Your very Resp t
Rich d D. Desforges

May 5 1835 J. L. Edwards
J. L. Edwards Com. of Peace
Richard Edward Esq. Clarksbury Virginia
  177  1172  304  177  476  883     2112  72  220  145   
air line

War Department
Pension Office
May 5. 1855
Your request that the Agent at Richmond be directed to pay the allowance of John Davis and John Kelly cannot be complied with. On a re-examination of Mr Davis' papers it is found impossible to reconcile his statements of service with the facts relative to the Militia Service of New Jersey. The Militia of that State were not drafted for actual terms of service of three months each as was stated, and was allowed to Mr Davis. The reason why payment cannot be ordered to John Kelly was stated to him at length in my letter of the 15 th March to which you are referred -
I am Respectfully
Your Obedient
J. L. Edwards
Richard D. Lillard Esq. Clarksburg Va

Worthing Harrison County Pa 1/6
This day John Davis (named within) personally came before me James Reed justice of the peace for said County & made oath in due form of law, that he was never drafted for a longer term than one month, but that he was several times when out on a draft of of one month detained in service 3 months and some times longer, the enemy & horses were near them therefore they were compelled to continue in service for longer terms than they were originally drafted for, — , States when he gave in his statement to Mr Singleton he did not think to state that his drafts was only one month drafts, he was only thinking of the length of time he was out &c —
Sworn to and subscribed before me June 8 th 1835 —
John Davis
Ja. Reed JP
Worthing June 8 th 1835 — J. L. Edwards
As there is not the smalest doubt but that Mr Davis is indebted to a person and done all the service he claims to have done, — Mr Singleton & my self when we examined him were heartily fully convinced that no steelman was born on rather that

He had done the work represented in his Sketches
Yours Respectfully,
Nathan Goff

18 3/4
Richard D. Webb Esq. Clarksville Virginia

Winchester May 26. 1835
Leigh
Yours of the 18 th Inst. on the subject of Mr. Tobias Davis' Publick Matters , and desiring me in charge of Mr. Davis, "to direct him what is to be done" as before said, in reply, I can only say, that I can't direct him what is to be done, If I could I would do it with great pleasure. I learn from Mr. Edwards letter to you, (a copy of which you have enclosed) that Mr. Lockyer's account was drawn on Van Buskirk as directed by Mr. Davis. - This is his signature, and I have no doubt attributable exclusively to his frail memory.
I well recollect, that Lockyer perfectly satisfied with the narration given by Mr. D. of his services. - I know nothing of the kind of service performed by the Militia in New Jersey, and therefore can't pretend to say, whether Mr. Davis or Mr. Edwards is in error. - my notes of Mr. D's examinations, are in the possession of N. H. Gifford Esq. you are entirely at liberty to have access to them.
I recollect to have reported inform of the entertainment of Mr. Davis' entertainment in the P. Role, and was much surprised to learn that he had been struck off.
Yours & c
W. H. Lytle Esq.

Jan 13
Ans? Jan. 13. 1837
M c Davis J. L. Edwards N. N. N.
Edwards 5
Amir. Office
H. M. W. W. A. R.

Houn of Resp Jany 12 1837.
Orhi
Can you furnish me with the pension papers of John Davis & John Cottrell who ask to be restored to the Pension roll — If you can furnish me with the names why they were stricken off it will be sufficient —
Yours &c
L. Edwards
J. L. Edwards Esq

Weston, Va.
Jany. 6 th 1855
Sir, I forward herewith the declaration, and accompanying documents, of Margaret Davis, Widow of John Davis who was a revolutionary Pensioner. She is as she declares 84 years old, and very frail, and in destitute circumstances. If she shows herself entitled to a pension, as I trust is the case, I hope it will be in your power to give her, through me as she requests, a certificate at an early day, or that aid which she so much needs, will come too late.
Very respectfully Yr ob. St
Jas Bennett
Hon. L. P. Waldo, Com r Pensions. Washington DC

Weston, Lewis County, V a May 1 st 1854.
Hon. L. P. Waldo, Com. of Pensions, Washington, D.C.
The friends of the widow of John Davis have applied to me to prosecute a claim of hers for a pension. She is doubtless intitled, though under what law or for what military service of her husband I am not now advised. She is very old, frail and destitute. She was married to said Davis at an early day, but at what particular time I am not yet informed. I find in her possession a letter in the hand writing of Joseph Johnson (the present Gov. of V a ) and signed by him, addressed to the "Rev d . John Davis, New Salem, V a " of which the following is an extract.
"Bridgeport, Augt. 1 st 1833."
"Sir, — It affords me much pleasure to be enabled to inform you that the last mail brought the Certificate placing you on the pension list at $88. per annum, commencing on the 1 st of March, 1831."
If I could be furnished with such information, with proper forms, as the Dept. can properly give, as an act of humanity I would willingly attend to the old lady's claim. Her marriage can be proven.
Very respectfully &c!
Jas. Bennett

Brief in the case of
Margaret Davis, widow of John
Davis
County and State of
Virginia,
act 3 d July: 1853.
Claim, ("original," for increase )
Proof exhibited, (if original.)
Is it documentary, traditional, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
Husband was married under the Act of 1 st June, 1832 (at the rate of $14.50 per An.) Copy of the record of marriage in the Clerks Office of Harrison Co. Va. is filed. One witness testified he was present & another witness to general reputation of marriage & cohabitation. Rev. H. M. Hurd did 22 d June, 1851-2, as per the affidavit of a credible witness & report of the Third Auditor. (If for increase.) Widowed & identity is established by the affidavits of three credible affiants.
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
James Bennett, Esq. Weston, Va.
Name and residence of Agent
D. C. Blyth, Examining Clerk.

Weston, Va.
Feby. 15 th 1855.
Sir,
Yesterday's mail brought me the pension Certificate of Margaret Davis.
On the same day I received intelligence of her death, which occurred on the 3 rd inst. Her Certificate bearing date on the 10 th one week subsequent to her death.
I desire to be informed whether it is competent for her personal representative to draw the two years pay due at the time of her death upon the Certificate issued. If not, then as to what proceedings the Department require, with instructions &c.
Very respectfully Yr. ob t S er .
Mrs. Bennett
Hon. L. T. Waldo. Com t . of Pensions Washington City. D.C.

Weston, Va.
Jan'y. 27 th 1853.
Sir,
I regret to find, on a consultation with Mr. Morrow, the Clerk of the County Court of Lewis, that the Official Character of Wm. Wooster, the Justice before whom the declaration of Mrs. Margaret Davis was made, was not authenticated, as I had been led to believe.
I now forward the Affidavits of Mrs. Davis of Benj. P. Shannon & Amos Wooster, taken before the same Justice of the Peace (Mr. Wooster) whose Official Character is duly authenticated. I hope this will be adjudged sufficient: as the Affidavits refer to and prove the fact that the declaration aforesaid was made before the identical Mr. Wooster.
Should this be deemed insufficient, I can only ask that the declaration be returned so that the papers may be further authenticated.
Yet I should much regret the delay, as the old lady greatly needs assistance and can, at most, need it for but a few more days. As from her great age she must shortly pass away.
Very Respectfully, Yr. ob. Servt.
Jas. Bennett
Hon. L. P. Waldo, Comr. of Pensions Washington City.
D.C.

Weston, Va Jany. 22 d , 1853.
Sir,
Yours of the 16 th inst is received, in which you say "The Claim of Mrs. Margaret Davis, for a pension as the widow of John Davis, has been received, examined and suspended.
"The official Character of William Wooster, the Magistrate before whom she made her declaration should be duly authenticated, the applicant should aver in an Affidavit what her name was previous to her marriage to said John Davis, and should prove that she is the widow of the identical John Davis, who was a revolutionary pensioner of Lewis Co. Va"
The declaration was written after your published form and regulations of the 25 th March, 1853, which nowhere requires a statement of her name before marriage.
What other authentication of the official Character of Mr Wooster is required? For if I am not greatly mistaken, the Clerk of the County Court of Lewis Certified under the seal of his Court to Wooster's official Character.
That the applicant was the widow of the identical John Davis &c, was intended to prove by the Affidavit of Benj. Shannon, appended to the declaration. In what is it deficient?
I will as soon as possible procure the required affidavit of the applicant, and would be obliged for more definite & particular information, as to the other points.
Very Respectfully
M rs L. P. Halds Comm. Pensions
Yr ob d S v Jas Bennett

BOUNTY LAND WARRANT RECORD CARD*
NAME Davis, John GRADE Private LINE New York
WARRANT NUMBER 7064 ACREAGE 100 ISSUED Oct. 7, 1796 to Ebenezer Drakley, assignee
*The information concerning the issuance of warrants carded on this form is found in volumes 2 to 4 of "Land Warrants Issued Prior to 1800" which are registers of bounty land warrants issued to non-commissioned officers and privates under congressional resolutions of September 16, 1776, and subsequent dates. Other records relative to the applications for warrants appear to have been destroyed in the War Department fire of November 9, 1800. Information concerning warrants surrendered to the Federal Government is to be found in General Land Office records in The National Archives.