Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S. 10491, John Croft, New York

SERVICE
NUMBER
New York
croft John
S. 10491
B.L.Wt. 26156-160-55
CONTENTS
carcass

20.404. New York a John Croft
of Cayuga in the State of New York who was a pirate in the — commanded by Captain — of the — commanded by — in the NY line for 18 mo
Inc. from $30
Inscribed on the Roll of Albany at the rate of 60 Dollars — Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 5 day of March 1851. and sent to
Nov. A. S. Cong. No of Reps Arrears to the 4th of Semi-ann. allowance ending
Dec. 24. 1857
Recorded by A. C. Novis { Revolutionary Act June '4
H. H. Sylvester, July 25/51 Let same see 9/51
Reg 8m 18 63927
Mr Day has a Bill in the propriety of which the effect on the Report to the Secretary of the Interior, of the 21st of March 1850, was taken, showing that the as a Cayuga was rendered in substant. The Bureau concurs in the July 3. 1853. etc.

H. H. J. (vervolg) July 25/51 let same see 9/51
Reg 8m 18 63927
Mr Ray has a Roll in his possession which he refers to in the Report to the Secretary of the Interior, of the 21 st of March 1850, no, later, showing that the as a Teynman was rendered in contract. The Commr concurs in the Aug. 3. 1852. etc.

New York 20404-
John Croft of Cayuga in the State of N.Y. who was a private in the Company commanded by Captain McGuire of the Regt commanded by Col. Hay - in the Militia line for
9 months.
Inscribed on the Roll of New York at the rate of 30. Dollars 00 Cents per annum to commence on the 14th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 4th day of Sept 1833. and sent to M c Gregor - Auburn, Co. N.Y.
Arrears to the 14th of Sept. 33. 75. 00 Pension, allowance ending 4 Mar. 34. 15 00
90 00
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by Francis Clerk, Book C. Vol. 4. Page 52
Letter to Hon. W. H. Bond Jan'y 11 th 1836
Hon. C. Morgan Jan 4. 11 th 1836
" " June 26. 1841
" " " "
Nov. 1835 with May 18 th 1846.
Sept 22 46

State of New York } County of Cayuga }
On this 16 day of July 1832 before the subscribers one of the Judges of the court of common pleas of said county, personally appeared John Croft, a Resident of Locke in said county, in the State aforesaid, aged Sixty four five 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, viz. He enlisted in Cobland, in Westchester county in said State in the Spring of 1781 and as he believes in the month of April, as a volunteer, in the York line - under Capt. Dennis M c Quin, Lieut John Ackerman and ensign Welch in Col. Hays' regiment, for the term of one year, and served his time out, and was regularly discharged, at Kings Ferry Westchester County; his duty was to assist in transporting the troops and supplies for the army on the river Hudson, during which time he further testifies that he was one of the Barge-men who transported General Schuyler to Albany from Fort Plank's point. And this Deponent further says, that he can not say whether the service he was required to perform, appertained to the Regular or State troops, but he believes it belonged to that of the State troops. And he further saith that his duty was very fatiguing, being often in the water, by night and by day, both in winter summer being in winter often required to cut the ice on both shores of the river for the purpose of keeping the ferry open; and for which services his Captain stipulated at his enlistment, that he should receive one dollar per day for and during the said term of his enlistment; and when he was discharged instead of receiving his wages in money, he received General Pickering's note for the amount of his services at the rate of one dollar per day for and during his services; which note he sold after the revolutionary war on the best possible terms, which was, two shillings and sixpence on the pound. (over)

And this Deponent further says, that in April or May 1782 he was draughted, at Coxtown aforesaid, at the opening of the campaign, & served under Capt. Hunt, Lieut. Tuttle & Ensign Samuel Young in Col. Wysocki's regiment, for the term of nine months, which term he served out, and received his discharge from Governor Clinton, under the following circumstances viz. A short time previous, to the end of the term of his enlistment, he was required to assist in guarding prisoners from Stamford in the State of Connecticut to Poughkeepsie, in the State of New York, and the Governor judged it necessary to return to their former Station, on account of their time being so near out, that he discharged the said guard consisting of twelve men.
At another time this Deponent further declares, while marching from Middle Station to Morrisania, on an expedition in the night, with about three hundred men, he was fired upon, by some persons unknown, but supposed to be a Party, and wounded by a buck-shot in the thigh; during the summer the summer he further declares, that he was often associated with Col. Sheldon's company of Light horse men - & that he knew the said Col. Sheldon & also Lieut. King of the same corps.
And he further declares that he has no documentary evidence.
He hereby relinquishes every claim whatsoever 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.
Sworn and subscribed, the day and year aforesaid before me.
John Croft
Gartham Moore a judge of the court of Common Pleas for the County of Cayuga
We William Williams a clergyman residing in Sumner hill and Miss Millard residing in Locke in said county of Cayuga, hereby certify that we are well acquainted with John Croft, who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be sixty four years of age; that he is reputed and believed, to have been a soldier of the revolution, and that we concur in that opinion. Sworn & subscribed the day & year aforesaid before me.
Gartham Moore a judge of the court of Common Pleas
William Williams Miss Millard

State of Pennsylvania
County of Bradford p. On this 21 st day of July AD 1832
personally came before me one of the Justices of the peace in & for said county. Godfrey Bought aged seventy years who being duly sworn according to law doth depose & say that John Croft served in the militia, in the revolutionary war as a nine months man in the New York lines. This deponent does not know how long the said John served but he does know that he joined such service in the year 1782
sworn subscribed the 21 st day of July AD 1832 before me D F Bartow
Godfrey X Bought his mark
I hereby certify that the above deponent is a person of credibility & entitled to full credit.
D F Bartow
Bradford County
I James P. Bull Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas of Bradford County do certify that David F. Bartow before whom the above affidavit was sworn & subscribed is an acting justice of the peace and I do further certify that I am acquainted with the handwriting of the said justice of the peace & believe the above purporting to be his to be genuine. Witness my hand & the seal of the said court at Towanda in said county the 21 st day of July 1832
For J. P. Bull Protho E. G. Goodrich
it unnecessary to return to their former stations as their time was so near out, being only three or four days, & consequently they could not arrive back before their time would be out over

State of Pennsylvania
County of Bradford p: On this 21 st day of July AD 1832
personally appeared before me one of the brethren of the piam in ffor the county of said. John Lent aged sixty seven years. who being by me duly sworn according to law. doth on his oath declare and say that. John Croft served in the continental boat service for the space of one year. The said John Croft served in the same company with this deponent during the said term. This deponent and the said John Croft were enlisted expressly for the said service. said Croft according the list of this deponent's recollection entitled in April AD 1781 & served his time out & was discharged. This company received pay at the rate of $30. per month. each. John Lent
I hereby certify that the above Deponent is a credible person.
D F Banton J.P.
Sworn & subscribed
the 21 st day of July AD 1832
before me D F Banton J.P.
Bradford County
I James P. Bell Portionary of the Court of Common Pleas of Bradford County do certify that D. F. Banton before whom the above affidavit was sworn & subscribed is a duly Commissioned & acting justice of the peace & that I am acquainted with the handwriting of said justice & believe the above purported to be his to be genuine. Witness my hand & the seal of said court this 21 st day of July 1832 for J. P. Bell. Justice E. S. Goodrich
...on said Hudson river; and the Governor judg- ed it unnecessary to return to their former station, as their time was so near out, being only three or four days. Consequently they could not arrive back before their time would be at an end.

State of New York, County of Cayuga ss.
Declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed 7 th June 1832
On this 21 st day of May 1833 personally appeared in open court, before the judges of the court of common pleas, now sitting, John Croft, a resident of Locke in said county, aged sixty nine 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 7 th June 1832.
That he entered the service of the United States under the following-named officers, and served as herein stated.
He enlisted in Cortland, Westchester county, in the state aforesaid, on the first day of April 1781, in the New York line, for the term of one year, and which term he served out, and was regularly discharged at the expiration of said year, at Kingsbury in said Westchester County. The officers under whom he served during this term, were, Capt. Dennis M c Guire, Lieut. John Ackerman, and ensign Welch, in Col. Hays' regiment. His duty was to assist in transporting the troops and supplies for the army on the river Hudson. He was one of the barge-men, who transported General Schuyler from New Paltz's point on the said river, to Albany, during this term. And this deponent, can not say whether this service belonged to the regular, or state service, but thinks it was the latter. The duty was very very fatiguing; he was often required to be much in the water, by night and by day, both in winter and in summer; being in winter often required to cut the ice on both sides of the river aforesaid, for the purpose of keeping the ferry open; and for which services, his Captain stipulated with him at the time of his enlistment, that he should receive one dollar per day, for, and during the said term of his enlistment: And when he was discharged, instead of receiving his wages in money, he was obliged to accept of General Pickering's note, for the amount of his said services, at the rate above-mentioned; which note he sold after the revolutionary war, on the best possible terms, which was two shillings and six pence on the pound. And he further says, that he again entered the service, at Cortland aforesaid, on the first day of April 1782; being draughted, and served nine months, under Capt. Hunt, Lieut. Tuttle, and Ensign Samuel Young, in Col. Mysonette's regiment. At the expiration of this term he was discharged by Governor Clinton under the following circumstances, to wit. A short time previous to the close of this term, he was required by his commanding officer, to assist in guarding prisoners from Danbury in the state of Connecticut, to Poughkeepsie, on said Hudson river; and the Governor judged it unnecessary to return to their former station, as their time was so near out, being only three or four days, & consequently, they could not arrive back, before their time would be out over

and therefore discharged him, this defendant, first of the guests, consisting of twelve men. And he further says, that at another time, during this term, while marching from Middle Patten to Morrisana, on an expedition in the night, with about three hundred men, he was fired upon, by some person unknown, but supposed at the time to have been a Tory, and wounded by a buckshot in the thigh; and he further says, that during this term, he was frequently associated with Col. Sheldon's company of light-horsemen.
And he further testifies, that 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.
And in answer to the seven interrogatories prescribed by the war department, he says,
1 st He was born in Corthland aforesaid, on the 15 th day of January 1764. 2 nd He has a record of his age, in his family bible at home. 3 rd He lived in Corthland, aforesaid, when called into service; & he has since the revolutionary war, lived in S d . Corthland; in Grenbush; Genoa; & in Locke aforesaid, where he now resides. 4 th He first entered the service as a volunteer, & served as such. 5 th He knew Gen. M c Dougall, Gen. Schuyler, Gen. Arnold, & Gen. Nixon. Colonels, Sheldon, & Meigs, & Major Bartlett, & also Lieut. Kling, who were regular Officers, & who served with the body where he served. He recollects Col. Sheldon's regiment of horsemen, Col. M c Intosh's reg t called, in the army "Leather caps", Col Van Cortlandt's regiment, Col. Da Forst's reg t & Col. Livingston's regiment - (Continental) and Col. Sam l Drake's reg t and Col. Wysonett's regiment - (militia) 6 th He received a discharge from the service, signed by Governor Clinton, and has lost it. He further says, that in the said nine months service, he was discharged. 7 th The following persons, living in his neighborhood, are well acquainted with him, and can testify to his character for veracity, & their belief of his having been a revolutionary soldier. To wit. William Love, James Wallace, Joseph Bird, John Edsall, Joseph Ashton, Oliver Ashton, Harvey Greenleaf, and Jonas Rude.
John Condit
Sworn and subscribed, the day & year aforesaid.
Daniel Simnett Judge of Cayuga County Courts

John White jun. We Henry Miller residing in Locke aforesaid, & Henry Miller of Auburn hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with John Croft, who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be sixty nine years of age; that he is respected and believed in the neighborhood, where he resides, to have been a soldier of the revolution and that we concur therein, in that opinion.
Henry Miller
Sworn and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
Daniel D. D. Judge of Cayuga County Courts
John White jun.
And the said court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogations 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 John White junior who has signed the preceding certificate is a resident of Locke aforesaid, & also that Henry Miller who has also signed the same, is a resident of the town of Auburn in P. County, and they are both credible persons, and that their statement is entitled to full credit.
I Michael J. Myers Clerk of the court of common pleas, do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said court, in the matter of the application of John Croft, for a pension. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and seal of office, this 21 st day of
May 1833 M. J. Myers Clerk

John Croft aff.

63.927 - act March 3/55 - - April 12/55 -
Chas H. Heath (Ad) 9/1855 St " " Apr. 30 - 1856
John Graft - Pensioner M.I.
Revolutionary War
MS June 22 - 2040A
W:160000 May 17/56 R. G. D.
M
H. Heath Locke N.Y.
Vol 6. 2. page 108

State of New York } Cayuga County } ss On this 26 day of March 1855 before me a justice of the Peace in & for the county & State aforesaid person- ally appeared John Croft Aged ninety Six years, a resident of Cayuga County in the State of New York who being duly sworn according to law declares that he is the identical John Croft who is a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States under the act of June 7th 1832 New York Agency at the rate of $60 per annum.
That for evidence of his service in the Revolutionary war reference may be had to the Testimony on file in the Pension Office upon which his said pension was allowed.
He further declares that he has not recei- ved a warrant for bounty land under this or any other act of Congress nor made any other application therefor.
He makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the bounty land to which he may be entitled under the act of March 3, 1855.
John Croft
We Jane Heath and Andrew Heath residents of Locke in the county of Cayuga N.Y. upon our oaths declare that the foregoing declaration was signed by John Croft in our presence & acknowledged by him & that we believe from the appearance & statements of the applicant that he is the identical person he represents to be
Jane Heath Andrew Heath

The foregoing Declaration and affidavits were sworn to and subscribed before me the day and year within written, and I certify that I know the affiant to be a creditable person, that the claimant is the person he represents himself to be, and that I have no interest in this claim
Wilson Green Justice of the Peace
STATE OF New York Cayuga County Clerk's Office.
I hereby certify that Wilson Green before whom the annexed Deposition was taken, was at the time of taking the same, a Justice of the Peace, in and for the County and State aforesaid, duly elected and authorized to take the same, and that the signature thereto purporting to be his is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I hereto set my hand and affix the seal of said county, and of the Court of Record thereof, this 7 day of April 1858 And I further certify that I am not interested or concerned in the prosecution or result of this case.
E. J. Marvin County Clerk, of Cayuga County.
63.927 John Croft Bounty Fund Revolutionary claim Ad March 3. 1855.
H. Heath Locke NY Agent

63.927
John Croft Bounty Land Revolutionary claim Act March 3. 1855.
H. Heath Locke NY Agent

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
Washington, D. C., _____, 19____
In reply to your request of _____, received _____ for a statement of the military history of John Clegg a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired information as contained in his (or his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau.
   DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. LENGTH OF SERVICE. RANK. OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. STATE.   CAPTAIN. COLONEL.     Apr. 1. 1781 1 year Pvt. Dennis M c Guire Farr N.Y.   Apr. 1. 1782 9 mos. Hunt Heisenfeld   While marching from Middle Patent to Morristown on an expedition with Gen. Howe he was fired upon by an unknown person & wounded in the thigh.  
Battles engaged in, none stated
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Lowland Westerlo Co. N.Y.
Date of application for pension, July 21. 1833
Residence at date of application, Lowland Co. N.Y.
Age at date of application, born July 15. 1764 at Lowland Co. N.Y.
Remarks: died Dec. 22. 1857.
There is no data on file as to his family.
Respectfully,
Commissioner.

1922 Jan'y 9 Heir to Mrs. W. A. Black
Rev Knapp
10491
✓ INVALID.
File No. 10,491
John Croft Prin. Ben-War.
Act: June 7 th 1932
Index:—Vol. A, Page 82
[Arrangement of 1870.]

FREE
62933
Southcroft
J. Minot Esqr Commissioner of Pension Washington D.C.
Mr. Roy
✓ 26,156
✓ Mr. Ross

State of New York County of Cayuga
On the 22 d day of April 1853 before me a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, per- sonally appeared John Croft of Sohier in said County, a pensioner of the United States, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath make the following Declaration in order to obtain an increase of pension under the Act of June 7 th 1832. That he now receives a pension at the rate of Sixty Dollars per annum under the aforesaid Act for services rendered in the War of the Revolution. That he served in the capacity of a Private for the term of One Year & Nine months.
In support of which claim Declarant refers the pension Department to the evidence on file in that office in and to such other proof as may be furnished by him or his Valentine of Albany N.Y. or by his substitute at Wash- ington City.
Subscribed & sworn to before me this 22 day of April 1853
John Croft
Oliver D. White Justice of the Peace in and for Cayuga Co
I certify that John Croft is the identical person above named & described and that I have no interest either directly or indirectly in the aforesaid matter or in any money which may be expected or due therefrom.
Oliver D. White Justice of the Peace

State of New York } County of Cayuga }
On this 17 day of February 1851 before the subscriber a Justice of the Peace in and for said county personally appeared John Croft a resident of Locke in said county a pensioner of the United States, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath make the following Declaration in order to obtain an increase of his pension under the Act of Congress of June 7 th 1832, That he is now a pensioner of the United States at the rate of thirty dollars per annum under the Act of June 7 th 1832, That he makes this Declaration for the purpose of obtaining an increase of his pension under said Act, And refers the pension Department as to the evidence on file in that office, as well as to such as may be furnished by his Agent Wm. Valentine of Albany N.Y. And herewith returns his pension Certificate that a new one may issue at an increased rate — Subscribed & sworn to { the word "Act" interlined before execution before me this 17 th day } of February 1851 — }
John Croft
Alvah Heath Justice of the peace
I certify that I am personally acquainted with John Croft & that he is the identical person above named.
R. Freeman

State of New York Cayuga County Clerk's Office Jr. I Ebenezer B. Root Clerk of said County do hereby certify that Alvah Heath Esq before whom the foregoing affidavit was taken was at the time of taking the same a justice of the Peace in for said County and duly authorized to take the same. And that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of said justice and verily believe the foregoing to be his genuine signature —
In Witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and affix the seal of said County and of the Courts of record thereof this 22 day of February 1851. (being Washington Birth Day) Ebenezer B. Root Clerk Cayuga County

Hi brot
W. June 7 1852.
for menas.
Mr Cole
Rep French & Sylvester

Rev. L. P. Wells
Com te of Pennans
Washington

Gen. Wright 32 20,404 M.H. Am. Coll.
Wm J. E. Hanch Forest Pines

May 13. ✓
App d of John Croft for increase of pension.
neg.
Act 7 th June 1832
Alex Ray Present.
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, PENSION OFFICE, OFFICIAL BUSINESS
Commissioner

Let to John Carver
Jany 2. '47
Letter to Sec. Interior 21 March 1850 - Decision affirming. See letter of Secretary June 14. 1850 filed in "Decision."
Let to Hon N.P. (began 4 March 59)

Increase 9. Months Certificate to be sent to Hon A. S. Conger.
Sub to p 60 per annum Redg former rates at p 30 per annum.
Wm H. S. Conger. 19 of R

Washington Feby 27, 1857
Sir
I respectfully request that a reexamination of the case of John Croft shall be made
Croft was pensioned under the act of 1832 at $30. per annum. After he had drawn this amount for about 15 years, & while he was still drawing it he made application for increase for service performed in 1781 for 9 months as ferryman - thereupon the service for which he was drawing a pension was disallowed , & the latter service allowed - while he was continued at the same rate of pay per annum
In the decision of this case I am confident this strange feature has not attracted observation
P.S. The letter of Mr. Jones & Colonel Hunt in evidence presents the point fully.
Yours &c A. S. Cargyn
Jus. G. Heath Esq learn pensions

State of New York, } Cayuga County, } ss.
John Croft of the town of Locke, County & State aforesaid, being duly sworn Depo r & say s , that Depo r ant lived in the town of Cortland County of Westchester & State of New York, in the Spring of the year 1781, at which time one John Brown was drafted in the American Service for nine months, the said John Brown hired Depo r ant to serve out the nine months draft, Depo r ant commenced the said nine months service according to Depo r ant's best recollection in the month of April 1781, & Depo r ant was discharged at the end of the nine months service, Depo r ant served in Capt. Hunt's Company, 1 st Col s Weisnfeldt's Regiment, for which service Depo r ant is now drawing a pension, Depo r ant thinks that John Brown's name was entered on the Rolls in the War Office, but Depo r ant's name on the day Roll,
Subscribed & sworn this 4 th day of June 1841, before me.
John Croft
Lester Maltby } Justice of the Peace
I Certify that I am & have been acquainted with the above named John Croft for quite a number of years, & that his character for truth & veracity, has never been questioned,
Lester Maltby Justice of P.

Mr J F Edwards
Commission of 26
Washington 1846
Sept 26
6

Cayuga County Ithaca Dec 10 th 46
Mr J G Edwards
Dear Sir By a request from John Croft of the town of Ithaca to write to you in his behalf on his Pension he wants to know what is the reason is that you allowed but nine months of his Boat service when he done one years service and allowed it to and why you allowed used it on his other service he says he served nine months as a substitute for one John Brown under Capt Hunt and Colonel Weyronfelt in the Spring of 1862 and that he proved as he served as a substitute By Capt Lent and Godfrey bought and furthermore he says he can make Proof of it again if it is required but he thinks you have Proof enough then now if you would but examine it but he thinks it is unnecessary to make more Proof write to what more is necessary to establish his claim Yours with Respect John Carver

I the within subscribing judge do hereby certify and declare my 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 I further certify, that it appears to me that William Williams who has signed the preceding certificate, is a clergyman resident in the town of Sumnerhill, and that Jesse Milluse who has also signed the preceding certificate, is a resident of the county of ... and that their statement is entitled to full credit.
Governor Moreau Judge of the Court of Common Pleas of Luzerne County

John Brooks station
710/2 81-
August 31
L. Offer

State of New York Cayuga County ss.
I Michael S. Myers Clerk of said County do certify that Jeremiah Morse Esquire, before whom the two several preceding affidavits were sworn, was on the day the same respectively have been taken and subscribed a judge of Cayuga County Courts, and duly qualified by Law to take the same. Further I am well acquainted with the handwriting of such Judge and truly believe that the signature prefixed to said Affida- vits, and purporting to be his, is genuine.
Witness my hand and the seal of the County of Cayuga the 21 st July 1852
M. S. Myers

State of New York Court and County } S.S.
On the 14 th day of February 1846 Personally appeared before me Theodore Eleazar W th comb a Justice of the Peace in and for Saie County Make Munk of Court and Village in Saie County age Eighty Three years
Who being first duly sworn according to law doth depose and say that he is a Pensioner of the United States under the act of March 1818. That he was a Soldier of the War of The Revolution and belonged to the 4 th Connecticut Regiment in the fall of 1781, and was detached with the Boat Service in that season at a Place called Nappanky Point and Stonny Point, on the North River in the State of New York and that while he served in that Boat Service he and all of the Boat hands was under the charge of Captain M c Guire - and this deponent further says that the boat hands that served that year in Saie Service was engaged in ferrying across the River the French Troops and the American Army, and Horses and Cattle and and that all of the Boat Service rendered that

year was Striking-Military from the Reason That the hands was taken from different Companies and Regiments - which belonged to the Regular and State Troops - That the best hands which at Stony Point had their arms and ammunition, and drove them Roseau every four days whilst in said Town - Sworn and Subscribed the day and year first above written before E W Edgcomb Justice of the Peace
Mead Merrill
I hereby that the above named deponent Mead Merrill sustains a good character for truth and veracity
E W Edgcomb Justice of the Peace

State of New York
Cortland County
Clerks Office N.Y.
I Samuel Hotchkiss Clerk of said County do hereby certify that E. W. Eager Esq before whom the within affidavit of Mead Merrill was taken, was on the day of the date of the Subp thereof a Justice of the Peace in & for said County, duly commissioned and sworn & authorized to take the same. Also that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Justice and truly believe his signature subscribed to the Subp & Certificate within is his genuine signature
Witness my hand and the seal of said County at Cortlandville this 3 rd day of August A.D. 1826
Sam Hotchkiss Clerk

1/2 Washington Sept. 2. 1850
Hon. A. S. Conger.
Enc: 4 papers from E. H. Edgecomb Rel to the Case of John Croft and appeals from the decision of the Comr of Pensions on the same,
Ref d to Comr of Pensions for a Report.
Dep. Interior Sept. 3 d 1850

E. M. Edgcombe (Croft bar)
I appeal from the decision of the Com- mission of Review in this case to the Secretary of the Interior
H. S. Conway

Cattaraugus Village Aug 3 rd 1880
Sir
I sent to you some time since a Letter concerning the Papers of John Croft an applicant for an increase of Pension and a short time thereafter I received an answer from you. Since the receipt of your letter I wrote to the Secretary of State at Albany to procure a certificate of service of said Croft, who informs me he can't find his name on the Military Registers which letter I send you herewith.
I wish you would on the receipt of this hunt up my letter & papers in the Croft case, and examine them and when you go to the pension office in the case of Mrs. Emma Fletcher take them with you and look over the Croft case with the Secretary of the Interior, and I have not the least doubt but that you can get an allowance of at least $30 per annum more than has already been allowed. Should you succeed in his case let me know so that I can forward you the original certificate to have a new one issued for the increase.
Yours H. Conger Washington D.C.
I am very Respectfully Your obedient Servant E.W. Edgcomb
It will pay the com. of the Military Pension Fund Bill in the Senate

Cattaraugus Village Aug 3 rd 1850
Sir
I sent to you some time since a Letter covering the Papers of John Croft an applicant for an increase of Pension and a short time there after I received an answer from you Since the Receipt of your letter I wrote to the Secretary of State at Albany to procure a certificate of Service of said Croft who informs me he can't find his name on the Military Registers which Letter I send you herewith.
I wish you would on the Receipt of this hint up my letter & papers in this Croft case, and examine them and when you go to the pension office in the case of Mrs. Emma Fletcher take them with you and look over the Croft case with the Secretary of the Interior, and I have not the least doubt but that you can get an allowance of at least $30 per annum more than has already been allowed should you succeed in his case let me know so that I can forward you the original certificate to have a new one issued for the increase.
Yours H. Conger Washington D.C.
I am very Respectfully Your obedt Servt E.W. Edgcomb
That has been one of the Military Pensions paid in the State.

State of Pennsylvania Bradford County
Caty Lent of the Townships of Ross and County aforesaid being duly sworn deposed and says that John Brott of the State of New York County of Cayuga & town of Locke lived at deponent's house in the State of New York County of Westchester & town of Cortland in the spring of the year one thousand seven hundred & eighty one at which time one John Brown was drafted to serve nine months in the American Army deponent well recollects that the said John Brown came to deponent's house in the spring of the year either in the month of April or May in the year 1751, hired the said John Brott to serve with the said John Brown nine months draft the said Brown said said Brott knapsack Gun, & the Equipage Brott served the nine months, then returned back to deponent's house during which time the said John Brown was in the neighborhood where she resided sworn & subscribed this Caty Lent 28 th day of May A.D. 1841 before me Mark.
L.S. Maynard S.P.

State of Pennsylvania Dauphin County. Hall's office } of
I David Cash. Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas of said County do hereby certify that Samuel L. Maynard Esqr the person before whom the foregoing proceedings were had is and was at the date thereof a Justice of the Peace in and for said County duly Commissioned and qualified - and that I am acquainted with his signature and believe the within purporting to be his is genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said Court at Harrisburg this 29 day of May A.D. 1841
David Cash Prothonotary J.M. Mather Deputy
3 May '41
Hon Ch. Morgan H.O.

2
July 4/6
This is to certify that the within copy is a true copy of the original which is now in the hands of the Rev. Mr. [illegible] of [illegible] [illegible] [illegible] [illegible]

State of Pennsylvania } Bradford County } ss.
Before the Subscribed Justice of the Peace in & for said County personally came Godfrey Wright Resident of Rome Township in said County of Bradford & State of Pennsylvania aged Eighty Six who first being duly sworn according to law, doth depose & say that he is a Pensioner of the United States & as such a Pensioner for his Revolutionary Services that he is now engaged in dispute with John Croft of Lock Cayuga County & State of New York & that the said John Croft enlisted the latter part of April 1781 as this deponent well believes in Capt. McDivitt's Company Col. Hays Regiment & that this deponent saw him several times during the Fall of that year & the first part of the next year & being well aware that he was certain the latter part of the April in the year 1782 at a place called Van Klief's Point & Stony Point below West Point on the North River in the State of New York & that my brother Henry Wright & John went down with the said John Croft at the same time & was allowed a pension for their services that the said in the year 1781 under Capt. McDivitt as ferryman or boat man in ferrying the troops & cattle belonging to the American Army & that I have been allowed a Pension for the same kind of service done in the year 1780-
Sworn & Subscribed before me this 11th July 1846 D. B. Perseverance L. S. P. } his Godfrey Wright marks

We the undersigned being well acquainted with the above named Godfrey Vought do Certify that he sustains a good Character for truth & veracity
11th July 1846
J. D. Duvvenough William Scott
Bruceton County ps3 State of Pennsylvania } Before the undersigned Jus-tice of the Peace in & for said County Came Polly Vought wife of the said Godfrey Vought & Sister to the said John Croft who says she is Eighty Three Years old That she knows the fact that her brother John Croft resided in the Year 1781 in the Company above mentioned & that he remained in said Service from the Spring of said year to the Spring of 1782 the above taken upon her solemn Oath
Sworn & Subscribed before me this 11th July 1846 J. D. Duvvenough J.P.
the Polly Vought witness
I truly Certify that I am acquainted with the above named Polly Vought & that she sustains a good Character for truth & veracity
J. D. Duvvenough William Scott

Warrapal County ss.
I Adair M c Keane Notary of the Court of Common Pleas of Bradford County do certify that J D Groenough before whom the foregoing proceedings were had is a justice of the peace in & for said County duly commissioned & qualified that the foregoing signature purports to be his an genuine, in testimony whereof hereunto set my hand and affix the seal of said Court at Savanna July 11, 1846 A M c Keane Notary

5
June '40
Christopher Morgan.

State of Connecticut Bradford County ss
On this 15 day of June 1840 before the undersigned a Justice of the Peace in & for said County personally appeared Horsey Waught who being duly sworn doth depose & say that he is a revolutionary pensioner of the United States that he was of the New York troops & served one year & nine months along the North River, and according to the best of his recollection it was in the years 1779 & 1780, or 1781. and that during the aforesaid service of deponent he frequently saw John Croft in the Revolutionary Service, said Croft was also of the New York troops, & was principally engaged in the Boat Service upon the North River in transporting troops & provisions - said Croft told deponent at that time that he had enlisted for one year & deponent believes said Croft served with the term of his enlist aforesaid - deponent well recollects of seeing said Croft in the Service aforesaid in the summer season & also in the winter; the first year of deponent's service was also in the Boat Service upon the North River, the same kind

of services that said Croft was afterwards engaged in - deponent is in the 79 year of his age - and further saith not -
Known & subscribed before me this 15 th day of June A.D. 1840. - And I further certify that the aforesaid Godfrey Baugh is a citizen of good repute for honesty & integrity -
His Godfrey Baugh mark
J. D. Goodenough Justice Peace
Test D. Cash J. D. Goodenough
State of Pennsylvania Bradford County
I David Cash. Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas of the County aforesaid do certify that J. D. Goodenough before whom the foregoing proceedings were had is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County duly commissioned and qualified - and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his are genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said Court at Towanda the 15 th day June A.D. 1840
D. Cash Prothonotary B. S. M. Wallis D.P.

I am not satisfied - proof is clear that he seems ill - H.H.
Frank & Sylvia Purs

Locke N.Y. April 11 th 1851
Sir
I herewith deliver You my pension certificate that You may return it to the Pension Office in order that a new one may be issued at an increased rate And I hereby authorize You to solicit the Pension Department to reinvestigate my papers and it will be discovered that I claimed as well as paid one Year & nine months service whereas by a recent adjustment of my claim for increase of pension it appears I was allowed for only eighteen months and I truly authorize & request the pension Department to correspond with no other person in this case except Mr. Valentine of Albany or his substitute until further instructions from me
Yours very respectfully,
John Croft
To William Valentine Esq. } Albany } N.Y.
Witness George Reed
J. D. Croft Guard of John Croft

Home W. Apr 14 th /58
Yrs in haste W. Valentine
Mr. Sylvester will please give early attention Yrs C. H.
over

Locke April 16th 1856
Sir
In your letter informing me that the claim of John Croft an Applicant for Bounty Land under the act of the 3d of March 1855 for Revolutionary service has been suspended, you say that it is stated that his service does not appear of Record.
He is a Revolutionary Pensioner under the Act of June 7th 1832, - In 1851 his Pension was increased from $30 to $60 per Annum I understood at the time and have always supposed that the Increase was granted upon Record evidence. Please examine the evidence upon which the Increase of Pension was allowed and see,
I have just had a conversation with him on the subject. he says he is quite sure that Record evidence was found upon which the Increase was allowed. Yours Respectfully Harvey Heath
J. Minot Esqr Commissioner of Pensions Washington
D. G.

Brief
John Croft
Admitted
Private of mouth
Boat service out
all over

BRIEF objections to the admission of Pension Claims , of which those answered in the negative, in red ink, will apply to the claim of
John Croft proof or explanation.
I. Does the declaration show where the applicant resides?
II. Did the declarant make the declaration in the county where he resides?
III. If the applicant did not make the declaration in the county where he resides, is there any reason assigned for his not doing so?
IV. Has the declarant mentioned the period or periods of the war when he served?
e 10
V. *Has he mentioned with precision the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled?
VI. Has he given the names of the officers under whom he served, in conformity with the regulations?
VII. Has he made a relinquishment of every claim to any other pension than the one under the Act of June 1832?
VIII. Has the Court given their opinion?
The Judge has but does not certify that the Applicant is unable to attend, which should be an actual disability not merely a personal inconvenience.
IX. Has the Clerk given his certificate?
X. Is the Clerk's seal affixed? And if so, has it a device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal?
Inscription not legible

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

It is important in all cases to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service. The use of the phrase about three or four months is too indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable.
† QUERE XIV. Proof of Service.
In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses, who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of the claimants entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged. The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the affidavits must be properly authenticated, as above directed.
‡ QUERE XVI. Mode of authenticating papers.
In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticates the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which contains the affidavit, or other paper authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon, the ends of which must pass under the seal of office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any paper from being improperly attached to the certificate.

Washington Mar. 11. 1853.
Hon. S. P. Waldo Com d of Pension G h
I herewith enclose an application by John Grop. a revolutionary pensioner at 32. (slavery) Agency at the rate of 60¢ per m th . for eighteen months service.
The applicant claims to have served for 12 m th . as a Ferryman, and received one dollar a day , or thirty dollars per m th . for his services.
When this case comes up for examination I shall be able to show applicant was allowed thirty dollars a month. and therefore claims for him a pension equal to that rate.
In requesting permission to show the facts stated, beg to be informed when the case is taken up.
I have the honor to
remain Sir &c. Alex. Ray.

Secretary's Office Albany April 19, 1850.
Sir,
I find the name of James Crofts on the Military Register of the New York Continental Line, but not that of John Croft.
E. W. Cagney Esq., Catharine Place,
Very Respectfully A. G. Schuyler Dep. Sec. of War

June 25 1841
Prof. G. M. Church
John Crafts
James L. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington.
W. Morgan Chas. Morgan H.R.

House of Rep.
June 24 th 1841.
James L Edwards Esq.
Sir.
I enclose additional papers in the case of John Croft. Have the kindness to examine the papers at your earliest convenience & if consistent allow the old man a pension as he undoubtedly deserves, as he needs it.
Respectfully Yours.
Christopher Morgan

Aug 15. 1846
Le John Bruff Jr. James Muan
L. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions
8

Washington Aug 14. 1846.
Sir
In the case of John Graft of New York a pensioner under act 1832 at the rate of $31 per annum. I am requested to present the enclosed evidence in support of a claim for his services as a Fanny, or Bear man.
I am very Respectfully Your Br. Servt Alex. N.ay
J. L. Edwards Esq. Comm d of Pensions

If I am not under a very great mistake, The Review is clearly established before the papers. And at that time I had no doubt of its
H.A.S.
Dec 11. 1831.
The General Review

Valentin Mem of July 3
Tonica Office, July 25, 1851.
Sir,
I have examined and filed the letter of John Graft, of the N o of April last, relating to an increase of his pension under the act of June 7, 1832, and you are informed that he is now receiving the highest rate which could be granted under the most liberal estimate of his service. If he will make a statement, under oath, showing that particular term, or terms, now omitted in our computation, and sustain his declaration by additional proof, the case will be re-examined.
Very Respectfully, Your obed Servt J. S. Evans P. Dir of Pensions.
H. H. Sylvester Esq Present.

p. 12
J. L. Edwards, Com. of Pensions Washington D.C. September 6, 1850.
relative to the case of John Croft. Papers, 13 in number, enclosed.

Pension Office, September, 6 th 1850,
Sir,
I herewith transmit the papers numbering 13, relating to the case of John Croft, on which Hon H. S. Conger appeals.
On the 21 st March last this case, was reported to the Secretary of the Interior and on the 24 th June, my decision was confirmed. Since that time no new evidence has been introduced.
Very respectfully, Your Obed Servant, J L Edwards
D. C. Goddard Esq., Acting Secretary of the Interior.

copy
Department of the Interior, June 14. 1850.
Sir,
I herewith return the papers in the case of John Croft, and I have to inform you that your Report of the 21 st March last, has been affirmed.
I am very respectfully, Your O bt Servant, (Signed.) T. Cving Secretary
See 9 1851
J. L. Edwards Esq, Comm r of Pensions.

Fortland Village February 18 th 1850
John Croft of Cayuga County was Pensions- ed under the act of June 7 th 1832 at $30 Per annum for 9 months Service under Capt Hunt in Col Wiserfitts Regiment and in 1846, I made application for an Increase of his Pension, for 9 months Service as a Boat man in 1781, in Capt M c Guire Company in Col Hays Regiment -
In Support of this Claim I produced the affidavits of Mead Merrill of our Village and Godfrey Vought and Polly Vought Wife of Godfrey and Sister of John Croft who was a comrad of Vought - who then Resided in Pennsylvania.
The Committee of Pensions allowed the 9 months Service in 1781, and disallowed the 9 months Service in which he had been Pensionsed on in 1782 under Capt Hunt in Col Wiserfitts Regiment - which in stead of Increasing his Pension to $60 Per annum Left him as he was again - I Wish you would call on the Committee of Pensions and carefully Examine the Papers With him and try to get an increase of his Pension to $60 - I am confident he is justly Entitled to the same and a pension for $60 Per annum -
Godfrey Vought Henry Vought and John Lent were Pensionsed for the 9 months Service in 1782 - and they were

and the Comrads of the clament post I consider it extremely hard that after having a Pension for his Service in 1782 the Nether years that some should be stricken out - and at a time to when all of his comrads had passed off of the stage I send you the two letters from the pension of Pension which I hope you will Return
I am very Respectfully
Your Obedient Servant
E. W. Edgcomb
PS
Mayor Webb's Wife is sick with the Flu, and is not expected to recover,
Dear H. S. Cayer Washington D. C.

Stamp Retained Jan 3 1922 Salt Lake City 34 D St Dec-16-1921 Rev. Ser Pension Bureau
Would like the Revolutionary service of John Croft (sometimes written Craft) born (probably Conn.) 1759 - died Locke N.Y. 1857 - served in Rev. - about three years - and was wounded. Received pension. If possible - please send record of service or pension Mrs W A Black Respectfully 34 D St. Nelly Churchill Black Salt Lake City. U.S.