Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 277, Benjamin Conner, Privateer (N.H.)

SERVICE
NUMBER
Privateer (N. 16.)
Conner Benjamin Connor or
R. 277
CONTENTS

(Copy)
The War Department of the United States, To Benjamin Connor Esq
1813
April 21 st . To a model of an expeditionary Bridge, suitable for military operations, - made by direction of the Secretary of War - $100 00 To a model of a Floating anchored Bridge , suitable also for military operations, made by the same order. $200 00
True Copy from the original 32nd of June 1813 Benjamin Connor Esq
et. B. The above models are made conformably to, and are fully described in, a Patent obtained from the U.S. for their principles: - and it is understood that whenever these plans shall be carried into effect for the purposes of the Government, a further remuneration shall be made to the said Benjamin Connor the Patentee, at the same rate as is paid by Individuals for the exercise of the said Patent Rights - admitted
John Armstrong
Received April 21 st 1813 of Wm Simmons, Acctt W.H. a warrant of $677 for Two hundred Dollars in full of the within amount - $200 - Benj r Connor

Petition of Memorial
Benjamin Cozmor,
Setteth forth that he has invented a new plan for the construction of wooden Bridges; which he thinks would be useful to the Military service of the Country, & praying Congress for reasonable remuneration.
11 th June, 1813.
Referred to the secretary of War.
26 th June, 1813.
Report made, and referred to the military Committee.
6 July, 1813.
Committee discharged and leave given to withdraw.
W m Webster
apd Sec. War

To the Congress of the United States.
The Memorial of Benjamin Connor of the State of New Hampshire, most respectfully represents,
that in a long course of practical exertion for the purpose of improving useful Arts, he has been so fortunate as to invent several new kinds of Wooden Bridges, - simple in their construction, expeditiously made, yet combining with these qualities all the strength of which the material is capable; some of them so formed as to be easily transported from place to place by Land-carriage; and therefore are peculiarly adapted to Military purposes, as they would greatly facilitate the march of Troops through Countries intersected by Rivers and deep Ravines, - and at same time admit of passing Artillery and all sorts of Military stores. Nor is the utility of this new System of Bridge-building confined to operations on one element only; but a certain description of Bridges invented by your Memorialist, offers an eligible mode of Maritime defence and may be made a formidable arm for annoying, and perhaps annihilating Ships that may presume to enter the Waters of the United States with hostile intentions.
The general principles of these valuable improvements are fully described in a Patent that has been granted to your Memorialist under the authority of our Laws; and he has the satisfaction to know that so far as the principal points of his system can be explained by language and models, it has been honored by the unequivocal approbation of many men of great discernment, eminent for scientific talents and practical knowledge, as it is more amply expressed in the annexed Documents, to which your memorialist humbly craves reference.
The desire of rendering these improvements more promptly & extensively useful

useful to his native Country, than they can ever be made by individual enterprise, induces your Memorialist, at this critical moment of military contest, to offer his System of Bridge-building to the Delegates of National Authority in the full persuasion that under their auspicious patronage its great utility will be fairly and advantageously tested by ample experiment: — and, at the same time in the full confidence that they will be pleased to grant him a reasonable Remuneration for his indefatigable exertions in bringing the proposed System to its present degree of perfection.
All which is most respectfully submitted.
Washington City May 27 1813.
Henry Connor

640 288 864
Exclusively of All Others
The Aximuth of A World A thing Desired
(Say Say is \frac{360}{2} ) Aximuth. \frac{1600}{400}  \frac{720}{2} - - - - - \frac{640000}{1280000} ( \frac{4444\frac{1}{2}}{8888} )
Errors & Omissions excepted Be.....
1280,000
Degrees - 1280,000 at least in world, of worlds B, corner

COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS.
ESSEX, SS.—Town of Salisbury.
BE IT KNOWN, and made manifest, That on this twenty-fourth day of March, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty nine and in the fifty-third year of the Independence of the United States of America, before me Edward Dorr, Esq. a Notary Public, for the County of Essex, by legal authority admitted and sworn, and a Justice of the Peace, in and for said County, dwelling in Salisbury aforesaid, personally appeared Samuel Nye, Esq. of the same Salisbury, Physician, who being duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath testify and declare as follows, viz: That in the year seventeen hundred and seventy-seven and seventy-eight, he was Surgeon on board the private armed vessel called the Vengeance, commanded by Captain Wingate Newman, for eleven months: said privateer was the property of individuals, but was commissioned by the proper authorities of the then Colonies of North America (now United States) to cruise against the British, then at war with this country. During that time said privateer was engaged in several severe actions with the enemy, and captured many prizes. That he knows and is well acquainted with Capt. Benjamin Connor, of New Hampshire, now in Washington City, and does know that the said Benjamin Connor was a Lieutenant on board the above mentioned vessel, and that he served faithfully as such during the whole of the above mentioned period.
(Signed)
SAMUEL NYE.
To all which he has subscribed his name in my presence.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I do also hereunto set my hand and affix my seal of office, the day, month and year first above mentioned. I do also certify that the above named Samuel Nye, is personally known to me, and believed to be a credible witness.
(Signed)
EDWARD DORR, Not. Pub. and Jus. Peace.

It appears by the journal of Samuel Nye kept at the time, and which looks correct and very particular, as to names, date and places; that there is an evident mistake in this printed affidavit, respecting the times of service , which should should be 1778 and 1779 instead of 1777 and 1778
Edward Dorr.

We the Subscribers, Master Mechanics, residing in the Northern Liberties in the County of Philadelphia, having seen and examined the model of a Bridge, erected by Mr. Benj. Conner, and particularly the Escarpe thereof invented by him for increasing the extension of timber beams, designated by the name of Conner's Wedlock Escarpe, we do hereby certify that we are of opinion that the same is completely adapted to its purpose and by far exceeds any thing of the kind of heretofore seen by us.
Philadelphia Jany. 10. 1812.
John Keen at No. 20 Green Street Northern Liberties Henry Weaver No. 49. St. Sammany Street Thomas Town No. 310 North Front Street, Millwright. Thomas Conaroe No. 32 Coahhill St. } Contracting Wharfbuilders Job Scott — No. 10 Bull's Court }
I do hereby certify that I am personally acquainted with the Gentlemen whose names are subscribed to the within recommendation and know them all to be persons of respec- tability.
W. H. Binder.
Having inspected the mode of lengthening timber to extend over long spans as bearers for Bridges to any extension by escarping or joining timber hand to hand to be put in practice by the most plain and simple practice and strong- est manner that I have seen practiced and executed by Capt. Benjamin Conner, and hereby testify the same. Philadelphia Jany. 12. 1812. } Tho. Town.

I do hereby certify that I am personally acquainted with Tho! Town, he being a near neighbour of mine in the township of the northern Liberties (Millwright)
W. Binders
Lancaster. Feby. 25. 1812
Copy, (Signed)
Benjamin Canner
Copy of Recommendation of Bridge Andrew J. ...
Mr. Canner Bridgton

Genl Smith John Armstrong

1813 Aug 6 th
Cat
Recd a few lines from Genl Smith to Secretary Armstrong: then at Philadelphia: requesting Me to be sent back to Baltimore: respecting Lining the hulks, or Vessels in order to raise them Occasionly — I was sent back to Phila At Baltimore — Genl Smith sent Captain Stiles to advise Me on the best manner to sink the said Vessels — which was to first make them tide by caulking in every direction Bed later scupper holes then to prepare Masts across fore & aft as a Cradle: Then to take out the pumps place others in with one bore so as to stop the Original pumps in the lower boars so that after the scuttle to admit the filling the Vessels: Close the port to Exclude the foul water Settling wherefore the first water remains: untill Occasion to Lift the hulks which may be easily Effected —
Capt Stiles approved highly of the mode I repeatedly visited Genl Smith untill sent Back to Phila
My Lodgings colut at Baltimore was at Mr J Barneys The Comity consisted all masters of Vessels — the mode was adapted as by Mem o
Blossom, or Mem o
Washington D.C.
In 24 hours all these vessels were raised after this and aboard as Masts sunk at Norfolk Va all destroyed, 8 or 12 months gifting up to New Channel

1812
Mem d Being at Washington D.C.
1813
untill the Invader was below
4 Aug t Engaged to go with Gen l Wilkinson to remain with him in his = family
6 do Let d and G.W. determined, to start - but did, to prepare route
7 do Gen l Wilkinson's Hack was full - I had to proceed next day = by stage - did, arrive at Baltimore, Gen l Smith at the Dore at Mr s Barnes - began to solicit me respecting sinking the ships prepared to block the harbor - from what I had said before - G.S. - dwelt and wrote a billet, to the Secretary Armstrong for me to be sent back - from Phil a - as I was - Witness The Son of Gen l Smith an aide or attendant with Mr s Armstrong as was Gen l ... at Phil a when I arrived & Ordered Back to Baltimore

1785, US Congress determined to build six 74 Gun Ships. The timber to be procured in Georgia, all of which timber was timber cut & brought landed in the docks. Instructions was given to Joseph Fox to assist David Bedinger Navy Constructor on the 26 of August — 1805 to require David Bedinger, of Norfolk, George Harrison at Philadelphia, John Beckman at New York, Sam l Brown at Boston, and Henry S Langdon Port- mouth Hampshire —
To make a return to him of all the timber deposited in the yard, respectively under his care &c. and said Fox was to make his Report to the Secretary of the Navy

Navy 1805 (Instruction) To require David Bedenger of Norfolk; George Harrison at Phil a John Beckman at N York Sam c Brown Boston & Hen s Langdon at Port NH.
My Dear Captain
I have this to say - Norfolk Va. Worms - Not over 1/2 & move to Phil rot N.Y. - Broken - do 1/3 N Yorks Worms - Worms - 2/3 worms Washington Rotten 2/3 Port h NH all sound & good.
Over half Rotten Worms Broken or Will rot when Portsmouth NH all sound & good. Only One 74 Gun Ship built With S c L i ebek that at Brimsmouth .
Nov 1705 6 74 Gun Ship

Porter Constant Lodge W Newcom N York Supon. At Miss Bales of

Article of Agreement relating to the above described "Porter's Constant Log"
For England only
Benjamin Connor has agreed with William Newcomb to take the invention to Liverpool, England, there to dispose of the same for the most he can obtain; and at the return to the United States deliver and pay over to Benjamin Connor, one-half of said proceeds - the other one-half the said Wm Newcomb retains for trouble and charges - New-York, March 6, 1815
March 7 th 1815
New York
Wm Newcomb
Benj Connor

I have the honor to observe that the president of the U.S has refered me to the Secretary Navy department to examine the instructions given to the Commissioners appointed by Congress in 1805 to examine the different Navy yards & Dock yards in the United States & I have the honor to request that you will be Pleased to comply with my request & Oblige
Your Obedt Servant
Benj t Corrior
The Hon ble Secretary Navy Washington 20 April 1825. Copy.
Copied
57
✓ —

Norfolk Va Worms over \frac{1}{2} & more
Phila - rotten
N York worms
Preston Limworm &c
Washington
Portsmouth NH
\frac{1}{3}
\frac{2}{3} saved
\frac{2}{3} rotten
Source of good
Only one 76 Gunship Built that at Portsmouth

Report of the Secretary of War to the House of Rep. on the subject of Coane's bridges
Benjamin Coane Capt Engineer Venezuela

Report of the Secretary of War to the House of Representatives on the subject of Benjamin Conner's newly invented Bridges.
War Department,
February 23 d . 1813.
Sir,
Mr Benjamin Conner has submitted to my inspection, models of Bridges, which from the simplicity of their structure, the cheapness of their materials, and the force of the mechanical power employed in them (the lever and arch combined) are in my opinion well calculated for military purposes. I have the honor, therefore, respectfully to report, conformably to the order of the Honorable the House of Representatives of the 11 th inst t referring to this department of the petition of Benjamin Conner, that the right to make and to use bridges made after these models, and the models themselves, should be purchased from Mr. Conner. The petition and documents are herewith returned.
I have the honor &c.
John Armstrong.
The Hon.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives of the United States

A
NEW AND IMPROVED METHOD
/ OF
SURVEYING;
WITH
A CHART, OR DELINEATION,
SHEWING THE PRINCIPLES AND APPLICATION OF LAYING OUT THE
PUBLIC LANDS,
BELONGING TO THE UNITED STATES
BY
BENJAMIN CONNOR.

Letter respecting Bridges

Capt. Connor Boater Ney
20,892

Essex Ss.
Town of Salisbury
BE IT KNOWN and made manifest That, on this twentyfourth day of March, in the year of our LORD One thousand Eight hundred and twenty-nine and in the fiftythird year of the Independence of the United States of America, before me Edward Dorr, Esq., a Notary Public for the County of Essex, by legal authority admitted and sworn and a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, dwelling in Salisbury aforesaid, personally appeared Samuel Nye, Esq., of the same Salisbury, Physician, who being duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath testify and declare as follows, viz. That in the years seventeen hundred and seventyseven and seventyeight, he was Surgeon on board the private Armed Vessel called the Vengeance, commanded by Capt. Wingate Newman, for eleven months. Said Privateer was the Property of Individuals but was commissioned by the proper authority of the then Colonies of the North America (now United States) to cruise against the British, then at War with this country— during that time said Privateer was engaged in several severe actions, with the enemy and captured many prizes. That he knows and is well acquainted with Capt. Benjamin Conner of New Hampshire, now in Washington City, and does know that the said Benjamin Conner was a Lieutenant on board of the above mentioned Vessel and that he served faithfully as such during the whole of the above mentioned period.
Samuel Nye
To all which he has also subscribed his name in my presence
In Testimony whereof I do also hereunto set my hand, and affix my seal of Office the day and month and year first above written. I do also certify that the above named Samuel Nye is personally known to me and believed by me to be a credible witness.
Edward Dorr, Noty Pub. & Jus. Peace.

Essex Ss.
Town of Salisbury.
BE IT KNOWN and made manifest That, on this twentyfirst day of June, in the year of our LORD One thousand Eight hundred and thirtytwo and in the fiftyseventh year of the Independence of the United States of America; before me Edward Dorr, Esq., a Notary Public for the County of Essex, by legal authority admitted and sworn and a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, dwelling in Salisbury, aforesaid, personally appeared Samuel Nye, Esq., of the same Salisbury, Physician, who being duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath testify and declare as follows, viz. That on or about the first of August, in the year one thousand seven hundred and seventyeight, he entered, or engaged on board the private armed vessel called Vengeance, mounting twenty guns; commanded by Captain Wingate Newman: that said vessel was the property of individuals, but was commissioned by the proper authorities of the United States: to cruise against British, then at war with this country.
That after being several weeks at sea, viz. on the seventeenth of September, they fell in with and captured the British Packet Ship Harriet, Sampson Spargo Commander, carrying sixteen guns and fortyfive men. That on the twentieth of the same month they fell in with, and after a sharp action of about twenty minutes captured, the British Packet Ship Eagle, Edmund Spence, Commander, carrying twelve guns and fortythree men, bound from New York to Falmouth; having on board as passengers, seven British Field Officers and several others of inferior rank — That being then full of prisoners and far to the eastward (viz. Lon. 19° 27' W.) it was judged expedient to make the first Port we could in France or Spain. Accordingly on the twentyninth September we arrived at and anchored in the harbour of Corunna; where our prisoners were all discharged, to the number of eightyseven; Captain Newman taking a receipt therefor of the British Consul residing at that Port; which receipt procured as many Americans of equal rank in exchange, who had been captured by the British in this country. That after making the necessary repairs made on the Ship, the cruise was resumed on the coast of Spain and Portugal, and several prizes; but none very valuable: That on the nineteenth April 1779, we left the port of Vigo, in Spain, for Newburyport, where we arrived on the twentyninth of May following: That Captain Benjamin

of New Hampshire, now resident in Washington City, was second Officer, or second Lieutenant, on board said Ship Vengeance, and in the opinion of him, the deponent, discharged the duties of a brave, faithful and vigilant officer during the whole of said cruise. Samuel Nye
To all which he has subscribed his name in my presence.
In testimony whereof, I do also hereunto set my hand and affix my seal of office, the day, month and year first afore mentioned. I do also certify that the afore named Samuel Nye, is personally known to me, and believed to be a creditable witness.
Edward Dorr, Not. Pub. and Just Peace.
10 2. 11. 12

make application to Congress; then' Senate by a Petition setting forth the date of your appointment and services performed; the injury sustained by a wound received in the performance of duty, the time of confinement and disability from this cause, mention the date of your last payment, and ask for a continuance of it from that time to the end of the War - March 3. 1865 with three months pay, which was then allowed to officers not retained in service.
Capt. Conner app d Top. Eng s 10 June 1813 Accompanied the Secretary to Port Warburton & other places on a tour of duty - to Philad a - Order'd back to Baltimore. to sink some ships. - Then to New York - That on his way thither he received a hurt in his back from the spring back of one of the seats in the stage - Required by Genl Smith to sink the ships in order to raise a barrier - to keep the enemy from coming up.
Apply to Congress

(Copy)
Resolution directing surveys and estimations for dry Docks
Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled that the President of the United States cause an examination and accurate survey to be made by a skillful Engineer of a site & construct dry dock at the Navy Yard at Portsmouth NH Charlestown Massachusetts; Brooklyn, New York: and Gosport Virginia: and that such Engineer be requested to state the dimensions necessary for such establishment; the object that apply to either with a detailed estimate of the expenses of a suitable site and of constructing a dock at each of the said places, and that the President be requested to communicate the same to Congress in the first week of the next Session
Approved: May 22, 1826.
Copy Benj. Conner's Opinion as Locally Site Portsmouth NH July.
also National Intelligencer
The National JOURNAL Docks for Repairing of War Ships or ships of war House of Representatives 18 March - also - May 22 1826.

I have made a site & survey at the Navy Yard Portsmouth Hampton  Island Island all which is required above water; It may be required for Sound and Bore for leveling bottom - Orders for the same will be strictly attended to - all is of Practice if any advantage I cannot make say No place equal for a Dry and Wet Dock Land all the Island around Secure of water sufficient to have 7 Docks for Ships & Materials all Belonging to the United States of America . By Jacob Sheaf Purdie under the Late President (Admiral Administration) (former)
Portsmouth N.H. July 1 st Up to Wms. Light

1828
Heavy, Varnish Paint

I have the honor to observe that the President of the U.S. has refered me to the Navy Department to examine the Instructions given to the Commissioners appointed by Congress in 1805 to examine the different Navy Yards & dock yards in the United States & I have the Honor to request that you will be pleased to comply with my request and Oblige
Sir Your Ob t Servant
The Hon ble Secretary: Navy Washington 20, April 1825.
Benj m Canner.
Some time after Peace, 1783 Congress Determined to Build, 6, 74 Gun Ships the timber to be Procured in Georgia all the timber was cut and brought and Laided in Docks.
Instruction was given to Josiah Fox Naval Constructor on the 26 th August 1805 to request David Bedinger, at Norfolk, George Harrison at Phil a John Beckman at New York, Sam l Brown at Boston, and Henry S Langdon at Portsmouth NH, to make a return to him of all the Timber in the Yards respectively under their care & Mr Fox was to make his report to the Secretary of the Navy.

Timber to Build 6 Ships 74 Guns each For the United States Frames all Live Oak From Georgia and Deposited in Docks as was.
   Washington  —  New Yard  —  —    Norfolk  ✓  Do  —  Do — Warren    Philadelphia  —  Do  —  Do — Note Yard    New York  —  Do  —  Do — Warren    Boston  —  Do  —  Do — Note Yard    Portsmouth  —  Do  —  Do — Sound Yard   

Resolution directing Survey on Estimation for Dry Docks
Resolved by the senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled that the President of the United States cause an examination and accurate survey to be made by a skillful Engineer of a site of a dry dock at the Navy yard at Portsmouth New Hampshire Charlestown Massachusetts Brooklyn New York, Gosport: and such Engineer by request estimate of the expense of a suitable site and of constructing a dock at each of the said places; and that the President be requested to communicate the same to Congress in the first week of the next Session
Approved May 22, 1826.
2 July 1 st with my son coll d , on the President (the Secretary at Norfolk) who advised me to Proceed as it made no odes; Then with my son July 2 d Proceeded to Portsmouth July 9 th at the navy yard time after time having a thorough survey: after which I Lent my Survey to Mr. Flood who took a Copy in Large also after it again, I Lent the Drawing to Col l Decker who Landed the Drawing to Mr. J. Flood for Correcting his & enlarging I suppose the same is at the City of Washington as I Flood. Mine enlarged by D r Hales

No. 277
Received _____, 187
Navy Benjamin Conner Lieutenant
"Vengeance" Private Armed Vessel Rev. War.

Copy
Connor's Patent
Copy
The United States of America
To all to whom these Letters Patent shall come. Whereas, Benjamin Connor, a citizen of the United States, hath alledged that he has invented a new and useful improvement in constructing and navigating Ships, boats and vessels &c. which improvement he states has not been known or used before his application; hath made oath that he does verily believe that he is the true Inventor or discoverer of the Said improvement; hath paid into the treasury of the United States the Sum of thirty Dollars, delivered a receipt for the same, and presented a petition to the Secretary of State, signifying a desire of obtaining an exclusive property in the Said improvement, and praying that a patent may be granted for that purpose: These are therefore to grant, according to Law, to the Said Benjamin Connor, his heirs, administrators or assigns, for the term of fourteen years, from the twenty sixth day of August, One thousand eight hundred and thirty, the full and exclusive right and liberty of making, constructing, using and vending to others to be used, the Said Improvement, a description whereof is given in the words of the Said Benjamin Connor himself, in the Schedule annexed, and is made a part of

these Presents.
In Witness whereof, I have caused these Letters to be made Patent, and the Seal of the United States to be hereunto Affixed.
Given under my hand, at the City of Wash- ington, this twenty-Sixth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand, eight hundred and thirteen, and of the Independ- ence of the United States of America the thirty eighth.
James Madison
By the President
James Monroe
Secretary of State
City of Washington, To Wit:
I Do Hereby certify, That the foregoing Letters Patent are delivered to me on the twenty Sixth day of August, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirteen, to be Examined; that I have examined the Same, and find them conformable to Law: and I do hereby return the Same to the Secretary of State, within fifteen Days from the Date aforesaid, to Wit: — on this twenty Sixth day of August, in the year aforesaid.
William Pinkney
Attorney General of the United States

(Specification.)
The Schedule referred to in these letters Patent and making part of the same, containing a description in the words of the said Benjamin Conner himself, of his improvements in constructing and of navigating Ships, boats, vessels, &c.
First. The position in which plank ought to be placed upon a Ship relatively to the texture or grain of the Wood, is a matter of Primary importance, which appears hitherto to have escaped the notice of Naval Architects and builders in general, at least until the undersigned discovered it, and brought it into practice a few years since. Much observation and actual experiment has confirmed his belief that the Sap side or superficial growth of the Plank ought always to be placed outwardly and upwards as much as possible, so that the successive coats, layers, or grain of the Wood may throw off rain, or any other humidity, by its sloping or curved position, and preventing moisture from penetrating into the interior, or heart of the wood, which it certainly will whenever the heart side is most exposed to the Weather, by being placed upwards or outwards, for in this case each particle of moisture applied to the surface penetrates and spreads throughout the Substance of the Wood, like rays of light expanding from the centre of Sphere to its periphery. Supposing then that the sides of Ships or other buildings, or the decks of vessels and the floorings of edifices of any kind, be covered with portions of a natural growth of timber Sawed either into halves or quarters, it may readily be conceived that the circular position of the

coats or layers, in the texture, a grain of the wood, when placed outward and upward, will naturally throw off any humidity that may come in contact with it, towards the side of each piece, or the joints; and the joints or seams being well secured by calking or otherwise, will, in a great measure, prevent the moisture from penetrating into the interior of the wood, and will of course prevent its ordinary decay.

Second. In addition to the advantages to be de- rived in Ship Building, from the relative position in which the Sap or grain of the Wood, either timber or Plank, ought to be placed, the undersigned has discovered certain artificial means of preserving the Plank and timbers of Ships and other build- ings, which means he has taken been at much Pains and expense to test by experiment. A composition which he has efficaciously used for the purpose of preserving or rendering plank and other descriptions of timber, more solid and durable than they have become by any other means, is formed of the following ingredients. Viz -
A Strong Solution of vegetable Alkali. Oil or grease of any kind.
Tar or Turpentine; Tar in preference.
Lime Water, made immediately at the time of using it, by pouring Water over fresh burnt Lime.
The vegetable Alkali and Oil must be mixed together, and the mixture kept apart from the Tar and lime water, until about to be used. The tar and lime Water must likewise be previously mixed together; and when the Composition is to be used, all the above ingredients must be amalgamated with so much Salt Water, say Sea Water, as will make its consistence nearly as liquid as that Element. It is then to be applied to the Wood, by means of a common mop or brush, or by such other means as

may be found convenient.
This composition may be applied with great advantage to Ships or vessels already built, as it will tend to repel or prevent the ravages of the Worm; and it is, believed will effectually resist the progress of what is called the Dry rot in Timber!
Shield. An Improvement in the art of navigating Ships, vessels or boats, which the undersigned claims as his Original invention, he denominates the Storm Sail, or Weather Proof. It is a Sail of a triangular figure, the longest side or edge of which may be attached by carlings and pointz, or otherwise, to any one or all of the lower yards of a Ship, or to any other Spar rigged in a proper manner for the purpose; by which means the obtuse angle of the Sail, or that part which may be called the clew, will naturally fall amidships, and may then be secured by lap-yards or otherwise, to a strong eye or ringbolt, fixed near the mast for that purpose; or it may be attached to a large thimble or collar, sliding up a strong horse, made either of metal, rope or other material, when this point or angle of the sail is thus secured, it precludes the necessity of working tacks and sheets, as it serves the purpose of both those articles of rigging so essential to the working square Sails - of course it becomes unnecessary to employ so much manual labour as is requisite to manage them in boisterous weather,

More especially in northern Latitudes, where Snow and Frost frequently render the tacks and Sheets of heavy Sails almost unmanageable. It is evident that Sails of the cut here recommended must be more easily worked and trimmed than the Square Sails in common use, because the whole operation, after the Sail is once set, is performed by the traces at the extremities of the yards, by those and by the lifts, this kind of Sail may with facility be thrown into any position that may be found necessary, and will stand fairer to the Wind than Sails of the ordinary fashion: they may often be used with safety in such Winds and Weather as would render it imprudent or perhaps utterly impracticable to set a Ships course, however snugly they might be reefed. In this particular point a double advantage is gained, that is to say in progressing in a voyage when it overblows for the use of common Sails, and in guarding those Sails against the extraordinary wear and tear, or perhaps total loss, that might accrue from attempting to carry them in such hard weather.
With triangular Sails of the kind here specified, and the occasional aid of Stay Sails, the undersigned has made a passage across the Atlantic when other Ships have been obliged either to lie wholly by, or in the attempt to carry close reefed Square Sails, have been driven far to leeward out of the course, and received immense damage.
It is believed also that in military naval tactics, Sails of this form might be found peculiarly serviceable to manœuvre in the presence of an

enemy, for a single clew at the obtuse angle, and even the bolt ropes might be so secured by iron chains of suitable size and texture, as greatly to diminish the hazard of being cut away or materially injured in a naval engagement.
Sails of this form may likewise be employed in another way that may lead to very important results, viz. by being attached to a spare yard or other spar, and then dropped overboard astern, where either the spar or the clew might be secured to an outrigger, and the braces led forward outside of all, with weight of any kind attached to the lower part of the sail, so as to immerse it a proper depth, and it will thus become a complete drag sail, and may be found very useful on board of a vessel fitted for war, when it might be desirable to decoy an enemy that could not be otherwise come at; for with all the appearance of flying under a press of sail, this contrivance would insinuate a ships progress through the water most astonishingly.
The same kind of sail may also be advantageously used to augment a ship's way, when in a stream or tide way, it may be desirable to take away every advantage of the current, for being suspended overboard ahead of the ship or vessel, the sheet and braces may be so managed as very much to increase her speed.
In the same position likewise this storm sail may be very useful, if by stress of weather the vessel should be absolutely obliged to under

lay to, for it will naturally have a tendency to keep her head to the Sea, and thus enable her to Surmount waves, which without this precaution might break on her broadside, and Submerge her past redemption.
Fourth. An improvement in the form and manner of Rigging Sails, for the use of boats or craft in rivers, bays, &c.
The general outline of these Sails is somewhat like that of a common Gaff; the leach and foot, however, form an angle less than ninety degrees. The mast to support this Sail should be about one third the length of the yard to which it is bent. A strong eye-bolt is fixed outside of the Stem: the rope running through the tack-block upon the yard near its lower end, and passing through another block in or near the lower part of the Mast, leads aft to the person who Steers, where it is secured. The Sheet is fixed to the clue at the Junction of the foot rope with that of the after leach, and passes from thence to a thimble or traveller, which traverses on a stretch or horse stretched athwart the vessel near the Stem, then is rove through a block or thimble upon a double or single Bridle, fixed on the after-leach of the Sail, then it is brought down again to the ring or traveller on the stretch or horse before mentioned, where it is made fast. This Sail is reefed to the yard when necessary, by letting go the tack, which allows the after part of the yard to fall

down within reach of the person steering; he has then to pull a line passing round the yard and through grommet holes, or by points, with which he ties the sail up to the yard. The tack of the sail may be hauled up to the yard by bails, as is usually done.
When this sail is set with the tack and sheet perfectly flat aft, it will maintain its position in tacking, by reason of the sheet being made fast to the ring or traveller on the stretcher, or horn near the after-part of the boat or vessel as before described - the ring will traverse as the vessel goes about -
The yard being of an elastic substance and form, and the principal portion of its length rising above the mast, it naturally yields to any sudden pressure of the wind, without endangering the vessel; because the points which sustain the greatest effort of the wind (that is at the stem mast head and the stretcher abaft) are much nearer the body of the craft or vessel than in the former mode of rigging boats of this description.
Another advantage that arises from this improved mode of rigging and managing boats and craft, is that they may pass under Bridges &c. by only tipping or lowering the after or upper end of the yard; this cannot be done by vessels carrying the same extent of canvas and rigging in the common mode, owing to the height of their masts and sails.
One, two, or more of these new fashioned

Sails may be fixed to the same boat, as her length and burden may require.
Fifth. A mode of preserving from the dangers incident to a sudden and unexpected approach to an Island or coast, vessels that have been long out of sight of Land. An instrument invented by the undersigned has been found very useful for this purpose; the principle of the operation is not now in question, but only the mode of carrying it into effect; which may be thus specified, viz. the machine consists of a Water-tight box, of a rectangular or other shape, of sufficient capacity to admit a small thermometer, and to hold a pint or more of water. One side of the Box is formed by a plate of clear glass, of strength sufficient to withstand the external pressure of the water through which it descends, through this glass, the height of the mercury in the thermometer may be readily distinguished. From the bottom of this machine another Box of 6 in diameter and of a cylindrical or other form projects, and being perforated with one or more holes, readily admits the water to flow into it. Within this Box and at the centre of the machine, enters a small cylindrical rod of Brass, copper or wood, having a shoulder near its foot or lower extremity, on which rests a plate of leather, beneath which is placed a strong spiral spring which keeps this valve properly closed. Below the shoulder, one end of a small lever is attached to the rod from the other end of the lever, on the outside of the Box a pretty strong wire

"passes up to the top of the machine, through a projecting ear placed there as a point of support, and then terminates with a ring, to which a line designated "a messenger," is attached. The glass in front of the thermometer is covered by a guard of metal or wood, secured to the solid part of the box, so as to prevent any injury from striking against any substance, either in descending or hauling up; a small air valve is made in the top of the box, that it may the more freely traverse the water and let it enter.
When this machine is used, it is let down by a strong cord, say a Deep Sea-line, which is fastened to the top of the box. When it has arrived at the requisite depth the cord is slackened at the same time that one pulls on the messenger, which in its turn sustains the weight of the machine, and by the agency of the lever before mentioned, to which it is attached, causes the leathern plate (which operates as a valve over an aperture in the bottom of the cavity where the thermometer is placed) to recede, and thus fills the box with the water of that depth; then letting go the messenger and hauling on the main cord, the aperture is again perfectly closed, by the force of the spiral spring, and the machine drawn up without permitting a drop of it to escape. An inspection of the thermometer should be made immediately, to see the degree at which the mercury stands, and by comparing it with a table of the observations that have already been made, and the result of the respective voyages where

this method has been pursued, a tolerably accurate estimate may be formed of the distance from Land.
Sixth. To paint a Ship's cabin or other wainscot work in marble or mottling prepare the work with white ground or any light ground-work, painted as fancy may direct. Then take any colour that pleases you, ground dry and fine, mix it with strong vinegar, take a brush and lay on the mixture, then with a sponge or a sheep's bladder well soaked in vinegar, or other absorbent substance, dab over the work, thus absorbing of a portion of the colour unequally as fancy may dictate, taking care to have a basin of clear vinegar ready to wash and bring out the colouring matter attached to the absorber or sponge; when the work will immediately dry; next cover it with a good coat of copal varnish, laid on three or four times in succession, as soon as they are dry. This is considered by the undersigned a beautiful improvement for painting Ship's cabins and other wainscot work and fancy furniture generally.
Witness James M. Varnum Gro. Lyon
Benjamin Connor Patentee

Connor's Patent
The United States of America -
To all to whom these Letters Patent shall come: Whereas, Benjamin Connor, a citizen of the United States, hath alleged that he has invented a new and useful improvement in the construction of Bridges, which improvement he states has not been known or used before his application; has made oath, that he does verily believe that he is the true inventor or discoverer of the said improvement; has paid into the treasury of the United States the sum of thirty Dollars, delivered a receipt for the same, and presented a petition to the Secretary of State, signifying a desire to obtain an exclusive property in the said improvement, and praying that a patent may be granted for that purpose: there are therefore to grant, according to Law, to the said Benjamin Connor, his heirs, administrators, or assigns, for the term of fourteen years, from the twenty third day of April 1812, the full and exclusive right and liberty of making constructing, using, and vending to others to be used, the said improvement; a description whereof is given in the words of the said Benjamin Connor himself, in the Schedule hereto annexed, and is made a part of these presents.
In Testimony whereof, I have caused this letter to be made Patent and the Seal of the United States to be hereunto affixed.
Given under

Given under my hand, at the City of Washington, this twenty third day of April, in the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight hundred and twelve And of the Independence of the United States of America, the thirty Sixth.
James Madison By the President James Monroe Secretary of State
City of Washington, to wit:
I do hereby certify, that the foregoing Letters Patent were delivered to me on the twenty third day of April, in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and twelve, to be examined; And that I have examined the Same, and find them conformable to Law. And I do hereby return the Same to the Secretary of State, within fifteen Days from the Date aforesaid, to wit: — On this twenty third day of April, in the year aforesaid.
William Pinkney, Attorney General of the United States.

(Specification)
The Schedule referred to in these letters Patent, and making part of the same, containing a description in the words of the said Benjamin Connor himself, of his improvement in the constructing of bridges, &c.
These improvements are, first, in the mode of scarf- ing or joining the timbers or parts of which the ribs and bearers of the arch, girder, or beam is constructed, so, as to throw the bearing in the direction of the timber, and to secure the joint more effectually than heretofore.
Second. The mode of carrying the ribs or bearers of a bridge or arch from one shore to the other shore of a river, or from pier to pier, or between any two supports or abutments for these ribs, bearers, or Girders.
Third. The mode of forming bearers, ribs, &c. of many many pieces, by a long lap, or break-joint, strengthened by ledges, trusses, or dovetails, so that the principal tim- bers shall bear endwise. This receives additional support from Secondary bearers which extend nearly in the line of the tangent of the arch of the Principal bearer, from which they join to the abutment on each side.
Fourth. The mode of forming the ribs of an arch for a bridge, &c. of pieces of timber butting endways on each other, without scarf or lap, and strengthened by Secondary bearers in tangent lines to each abutment.
Fifth. The mode of supporting, or stiffening the

ribbed arches of bridges, and preventing tremor, by an incumbent counter-arch or rib, resting on the principal rib or bearer.
Sixth, The mode of forming the flooring timbers between the ribs, and sending them from one side as they are put together.
Seventh. An improved ice-breaker, to prevent injury to piers or abutments of Bridges, or other buildings, in the water or on the shores of Rivers.
Eighth. A mode of constructing the arches of Wooden bridges, by connecting the timber so as to bear endwise, and be secured in their position by cross-locking with each other.
Ninth. A mode of making the piers and abutments of Bridges with greater ease than heretofore, and so fortifying them as to protect the bridge. In the piers to the bridges, batteries may be placed so as to defend them, and there may be covered, and be composed of stone, brick, or rather of wood placed endways, which will be more solid, and occasion fewer splinters: and this last I consider as a very great improvement in the construction of forts and batteries generally.
And Tenth. A balance draw for floating and raised bridges.
Then I particularly describe in the following manner, to Wit:
First. Of the mode of scarfing timbers to be used in bridges, girders, arches and centres, to

to throw the bearings in the Direction of the length of the length of timber. This Scarfing or Joint I term the hand-in-hand Scarf. The length of the pro- posed Scarf or Splice is divided into three parts, the middle part of which is sawed down about half the thickness of the timber, in lines of the radii of arch formed by the principal bearers, and part taken out for half the thickness of the timber. So that two pieces being cut in a similar manner from the opposite sides will join together, and the ends bear against each other, the remaining two-thirds of the Scarf are formed to extend length- wise of the timber at the top so as to bolt down and secure the whole together more firmly. These extending parts may be added or omitted as cir- cumstances or security shall dictate. Or the Scarf may be made so that each piece shall have a corresponding indentation and a projection, thus giving a double lap and bearing, but without the upper extending parts -
Third Second. My second improvement is in the mode of carrying the ribs, girders, or bearers from one support or abutment or pier to an- other, by the aid of shears or triangles, either sup- ported from floating vessels or on carriages moving on rollers or placed in fixed positions. As the rib is forced or drawn along, it is elevated by the aid of blocks, &c, one end may be borne by the vessel or carriage, whilst other vessels or carriages with the shears or triangles support the ribs in the line of direction required, and the whole elevated,

to its proper place.
Third. My third improvement is in the mode of forming ribs, &c. by a long lap or break-joint, strengthened by cogs, and secondary bearers. The rib so constructed consists of two or more pieces, which are placed by the side of each other to form an entire rib, and they may have laths between them to allow a passage for the air as a preventative against rot. The joints of these pieces are in lines of the Radii of the Arch, so that their bearing shall be lengthwise of the timber. The joints of the pieces on each side to break alternately. Immediately along each joint is a doggle or notch, which receives the end of a secondary bearer or bearer, that extends from thence with nearly the line of the Tangent of the Arch to the nearest abutment or pier, and these lines occurring alternately in each side-piece of the bearer, half of the secondary bearer will stop at the notch, whilst the other half extends until it reaches at the top of the bearer. Two, three or more of these secondary bearers will be introduced from each abutment according to the span of the arch and the number of pieces of which the rib is composed. They will strengthen the arch or rib, whilst they raise the floor of the bridge to the requisite height for a commodious passage over it. These secondary bearers are supported from each other at the required distance by perpendicular props or supports, extending from the rib or by the ends of the trans-

=verse timbers which connect the several ribs of which the bridge is composed.
Fourth. Another of my improvements is in composing the principal ribs of a bridge or arch, of a number of pieces butting against each other with the ends, where the joint is in the line of the radii of the arch, the end of each piece rising so high above the other which is nearer to the abutment as to have a projection, against which secondary braces, of the foregoing description, extending to the pier, may be made to abut and prop, adding strength and security to the bridge.
Fifth. Arches of great extent being apt to rebound and shake, from the excessive percussions upon them as travelled over, my next improvement is to add a reacting arch or rib, with the back or curve downwards, which, whilst it strengthens the bridge, takes off all tremor or shake. Above the main ribs of the bridge I have others reversed with the arch downwards, connected at the ends with the side plates or ribs, that support the roof, and which may be either horizontal or have a curve corresponding to that of the principal bearers. These several ribs are connected together by vertical braces that rise in the line of the radii of the lower bearer or arch, so that they are kept in their true positions with regard to each other. This both strengthens the arch and prevents every part from vibrating.
Sixth. My next improvement is in the mode

Of sending over the flooring timbers from one side, so soon as any two ribs are ready to receive them. A groove or chamfer may be formed on the upper and inner edge of each of the two ribs, or bearers, along which the framing of the floor is slid in succession as fast as prepared and put together, with the necessary cross pieces, either to hold bearing planks or joists lengthwise, across which the travelling plank is to be laid; or, instead of the grooves above mentioned, the flooring timber may be slid along on the top of the ribs, being kept in its proper place by the back of the counter-arch and the connecting braces.
Seventh. The improved Ice-breaker is a strong beam or piece of timber extending from the top of a pier, or from the bearer of the bridge, or wherever wanted, so as to enter the water with any angle from twenty to forty five degrees, according to circumstances. This beam has its sharp edge uppermost, and spreads out beneath, so that as the ice rises upon it breaks over the edge by its own weight, and passes off. To strengthen it, there may be a vertical wall or framework of wood, rising underneath and extending from the pier for any thing floating.
Eighth. My improvement in the constructing of bridges by what I term cross-locking, is in laying the piers cross each other, so as to have their ends resting on transverse pieces, that lay on the middle of the next set. In this way, arches or bridges of any length may be formed in a little

time, and at a small expense, highly useful the transportation of Armies, and where per- =manence is no so much an object as the facil- =ity and economy of construction.
Sixth. The improvements in the construc- =tion of piers and abutments, is in erecting them with a wheel in the centre, by which all the ma- =terials for erecting them can be drawn by a wheel and axis, placed on the top of the wheel and raised as the process of walling progresses. These may be finished bomb proof, with Port holes or embrasures, from which heavy cannon may be discharged, to defend the passage of the bridge against any attempts to force it.
Seventh. The next improvement which I specify and describe is the balanced Draw, to be used either in elevated bridges or in floating bridges. This draw turns on pivots, and extends nearly equally above and below the travelling path when raised, having an arm extended from the upper or lower surface, to give the necessary purchase in the first instance. It is worked in a similar manner to the working a ship's rudder, =der, by ropes or chains, and so that as one part is extended, the other is drawn in.
Witnesses present William Thornton Geo. Lyon
Benjamin Connor Patentee

Report of the Secretary of War to the House of Representatives on the subject of Benjamin Conner's newly invented Bridges.
War Department February 23, 1873. }
Sir - Mr Benjamin Conner has submitted to my inspection models of Bridges, which, from the simplicity of their structure, the cheapness of their materials, and the force of the mechanical power employed in them (the lever and arch combined) are in my opinion well calculated for military purposes. I have the honor therefore respectfully to report, conformable to the order of the honorable the House of Representatives of the 11 th inst. referring to this department the petition of Benjamin Conner, that the right to make and to use bridges made after these models, and the models themselves, should be purchased from Mr Conner. The petition and documents are herewith returned.
I have the honor, &c.
John Armstrong.
The hon. the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the United States.

As amended and reported from the Committee of the Whole House on the 12th April, 1832.
NOTE.—The parts within brackets were stricken out by the Committee of the Whole, and the parts in italics are insertions.
A BILL
In addition to an act, entitled “An act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the revolutionary war,” approved March eighteen, one thousand eight hundred and eighteen.
1 Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives 2 of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That 3       each of the surviving officers, non-commissioned officers, mu- 4       sicians, and privates, and persons who belonged to the Ord- 5 nance, Quartermaster's, Wagonmaster's, Paymaster's, Com- 6 missary's, or Hospital Departments, or Medical Staff, who 7       served in the war of the revolution on the continental esta- 8       blishment, or in the Vermont line of military forces of Ver- 9 mont, or in the militia or State troops, or as volunteers, and 10       who continued therein at one or more terms of service, for a 11       period of nine months or more, upon proof thereof to be made 12       to the Secretary of War as hereinafter provided, shall be enti- 13       tled to receive, during his natural life, a pension, according 14       to the provisions of the act mentioned in the title of this bill.
1 SEC. 2. And be it further enacted, That each of the per- 2       sons provided for, respectively, in the preceding section of this 3       act, who shall have served, as therein mentioned, for any term

4 less than nine months, under one or more enlistments, and not 5 less than [six] three months, upon proof thereof to be made to 6 the Secretary of War, as hereinafter provided, shall be entitled 7 to receive, during his natural life, a pension, according to the 8 provisions of the act of Congress mentioned in the title of this 9 bill, in such proportion only as the term of his service bears 10 to the term of nine months. And that so much of the act to 11 which this is an addition, which provides that the applicant, 12 by reason of his reduced circumstances, shall be in need of as- 13 sistance from his country for support, and the act, entitled "An 14 act in addition to an act entitled 'An act to provide for certain 15 persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United 16 States in the revolutionary war,' " passed the eighteenth day of 17 March, one thousand eight hundred and eighteen, be, and the 18 same are hereby, repealed.
1 SEC. 3. And be it further enacted, That each of the sur- 2 viving officers, [non-commissioned officers, musicians, and pri- 3 vates,] of the army of the revolution, who shall have served in 4 the continental line, State troops, volunteers or militia, at one 5 or more terms, a period of [two] three years or more during the 6 war of the revolution, upon proof thereof to be made to the 7 Secretary of War, as hereinafter provided, shall be entitled to 8 receive, during his natural life, a pension equal to the amount 9 of his full pay in the said line, according to his rank, but not 10 to exceed, in any case, the pay of a captain in the said line.

1        SEC. 4. And be it further enacted , That the officers, non- 2 commissioned officers, musicians, mariners, or marines, who 3 served in the naval service of the United States, or of the re- 4 spective States , during the revolutionary war, shall be entitled 5 to the benefits of this act, in the same manner, and subject to 6 all the provisions which are herein respectively contained, in 7 relation to the officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, 8 and privates of the army.
1        SEC. 5. And be it further enacted , That if any person 2 embraced in the provisions of this act shall, after the com- 3 mencement of, and during his term of service in the war of 4 the revolution, have been taken captive, the time such person 5 may have been so detained in captivity shall be computed in 6 determining the length of his said service.
1        SEC. 6. And be it further enacted , That the pensions 2 which may be hereafter granted and allowed by this act, shall, 3 under the direction of the Secretary of War, be paid to the 4 person entitled thereto, or his or their authorized attorney, at 5 such places and times as the Secretary of War may direct; no 6 person shall be entitled to the benefit of this act, unless he be 7 a citizen of the United States; and the pensions granted by this 8 act shall not be in any way transferable, as liable to attach- 9 ment, levy, or seizure, by any legal process whatever, but shall 10 inure wholly to the benefit of the person entitled to the same.

1        SEC. 7. And be it further enacted , That in case of the 2 death of any person embraced in the provisions of this act, 3 after the same shall have been approved, and before the first 4 term of payment shall have arrived, the amount of pay which 5 shall be due to such person shall be paid to his widow, and if 6 he leave no widow, to his children, and if he leave no widow 7 or children, then to his legal representative; and in case of the 8 death of any person embraced by the provisions of this act 9 during the period intervening between the semi-annual pay- 10 ments, the proportionate amount of pay which shall have ac- 11 crued between the last preceding semi-annual payment and 12 the death of such person, shall be paid to his widow, and if he 13 leave no widow, to his children, and if he leave no widow or 14 children, to his legal representative, in the same manner, and 15 under the same regulations as are now practised in paying 16 pensions, under the act [mentioned in the title to this bill,] to 17 which this is an addition.
1        SEC. 6. And be it further enacted , That the pensions which 2 may be hereafter granted by virtue of this act, shall commence 3 on the [first] fourth day of [January] March , one thousand 4 eight hundred and thirty: Provided , That no person or per- 5 sons other than invalid pensioners now receiving a pension un- 6 der any law of the United States, shall be entitled to the bene- 7 fit of this act, unless he or they shall first relinquish his or 8 their further claim to any such pension: And provided, fur-

9 ther , That, in all payments under this act, the amount which 10 may have been received by any pensioner other than an inva- 11 lid pensioner, under any other pension act as aforesaid, since 12 the date at which the payments under this act shall com- 13 mence, shall first be deducted from said payments.
1 [SEC. 9. And be it further enacted , That, to entitle any 2 person to the benefit of this act, he shall make a declaration, 3 under oath or affirmation, before the district judge of the Unit- 4 ed States in the district, or before any judge or court of record 5 of the county, State, or Territory, in which the applicant shall 6 reside, setting forth, if he belong to the army, the company, 7 regiment, and line to which he belonged, the time he entered 8 and left the service; and, in case he belonged to the navy, a 9 like declaration, setting forth the name of the vessel in which 10 he was employed, and the time of entering and leaving the 11 service; and shall offer such other evidence as may be in his 12 power: and if it shall be made to appear to the satisfaction of the 13 said judge or court, that the applicant served in the war of the 14 revolution as is herein before mentioned; and in all the cases 15 where the evidence is satisfactory, a certified copy of the testi- 16 mony in such cases shall be transmitted to the Secretary of 17 War, with a certificate under the seal of the court, that the de- 18 claration of the applicant, in the opinion of the judge or court, 19 is true; and which certificate shall be considered conclusive as 20 to the truth of the facts set forth in the declaration.]

1 SEC. 9. And be it further enacted, That, to entitle any 2 person, except as is hereinafter mentioned, to a pension by virtue 3 of this act, he shall make a declaration, under oath or affirma- 4 tion, before the district judge of the United States in the district, 5 or before a court of record of the county, State, or Territory, in 6 which he shall reside, setting forth, if he belonged to the army, 7 the company, regiment, and line to which he belonged, together 8 with the time of his entering and leaving the service; and if he 9 belonged to the navy, a like declaration, setting forth the name 10 of the vessel in which he was employed, with the time of enter- 11 ing and leaving the service, and shall offer such other evidence as 12 he may be able to produce; and if it shall appear to the satisfaction 13 of the said judge or court, by the said testimony, that the facts 14 set forth in the said declaration are true, a certificate to that 15 effect, together with a certified copy of the testimony under the 16 seal of the court, shall be transmitted to the Secretary of War, 17 and the same shall be taken and deemed to be conclusive evidence 18 of the truth of the facts set forth in the said declaration: Pro- 19 vided always, That no person shall be entitled to a pension by 20 virtue of this act where there is no other evidence furnished 21 than the affidavit or declaration, under oath, herein before re- 22 quired to be made by the applicant himself, nor where the re- 23 cords in the War Department shall contradict the statement 24 contained in the said declaration.

1        SEC. 10. And be it further enacted, That all persons who 2 were placed on the list of revolutionary pensions under the act 3 of May eighteen, eighteen hundred and eighteen, and who have 4 been stricken from said list under the provisions of the act of 5 May first, eighteen hundred and twenty, on application to the 6 Secretary of War, and on proof of their identity, shall be re- 7 stored by the said Secretary to said list, without said persons be- 8 ing required to comply with the ninth section of this act; the 9 payment in all such cases to commence on the first day of Janu- 10 ary, one thousand eight hundred and thirty.

Timber Copy 6, 73 - Gun - Thur - US Live Oak

1108 - 2 1/2 to 6 inches refuse white oak plank 146 cubic feet refuse live oak timber 102 - Do " " " " knees 204 - Planed carlines 244 pieces live oak timber for carlines, staunchions &c 3604 cubic live oak feet pine timber 5 pieces for bowsprits &c 4 " " for yards &c 2 Bilge ways 126 feet each 32,563 Locust Tree nails 13 pieces refuse launching ways 50 spruce spars 9 " Poles

Some time after the Peace of 1783, Congress determined to build Six 74 gun ships. The timber to be procured from Georgia. All the timber was cut, and brought and landed in the docks.
Instructions were given to Josiah Fox, Naval constructor, on the 26th August, 1805, to request Daniel Bedinger, Norfolk, George Harrison, at Philadelphia; John Beckman, at New York, Samuel Brown, at Boston; and to Henry J Landon, at Portsmouth N. H. &c.
To make a return to him, of all the timber deposited in the yards, respectively respectively under their care, &c and Mr Fox was to make his report to the Secretary of the Navy.

BOUNTY LAND WARRANT RECORD CARD*
NAME Conner, Charles GRADE Private LINE Pennsylvania
WARRANT NUMBER 9110 ACREAGE 100 ISSUED July 16, 1789 To not shown
*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.