Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S. 15062, Joseph Davis, Mass.

SERVICE
NUMBER
Mass
Davis, Joseph
S15062
boarded
CONTENTS

155084 / 8453 8433 New York
Joseph Davis
of Cattenaug, in the State of N. York who was a Private in the Company commanded by Captain Watson of the Regt. commanded by Lieut. Crann in the M a Art y ——— time for 2 Years ———
Inscribed on the Roll of N. York at the rate of 80 Dollars ——— Cents per annum to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 12 th day of April 1833 ——— and from the G.A.S. Comptroller Conemaugh
Arrears to the 4th of March $ 16.00 Semi-annual allowance ending 4 th Sep r 33 40.00 $200.00
{ Revolutionary Act June 7, 1832
G. B. Stiles
Recorded by Book C. Vol. 4 Page 1

J.R. Goldsmith, June 20/60

Joseph Davis
Schedule 13 th June 1820.
not entitled
13784
5 Aug. 1819

State of New York Montgomery Com. Pleas
On this thirteenth day of June 1820 personally ap- peared in Open Court, the said Court being a Court of Record within the contemplation of the Act of Congress proceeding according to the principals of Common Law having of fine and Imprisonment for the said County of Montgomery, Joseph Davis aged fifty Eight the 13 th of December last being a resident citizen of said County, who being first duly sworn according to Law doth on his oath declare that he served in the Revolutionary war as follows viz, that he entered into the service of the United States some time in March 1781 at the Town of Western in the State of Massachusetts for the term of three years, that I served in Lieutenant Hol- idridge's Commandant, company in Colonel Graytons Re- giment in the Massachusetts line on the Continental establishment and continued in said Corps until December 1783 when I was honourably discharged at West Point in the State of New York, that the date of his original declaration is the 20 th day of April 1818 and the number of his certificate which he has received is 13,784. And I do solemnly swear that I was a resident citizen of the United States on the 18 th day of March 1818 and that I have not since that time by gift, sale or in any manner disposed of my property or any part thereof with intent thereby to diminish

It as to bring myself within the provisions of an act of Congress entitled an act to provide for certain persons engaged in the Land and Naval Service of the United States in the revolutionary war passed on the 18 th of March 1818 and that I have not nor has any person in trust for me any property or securities contracts, or debts due to me nor have I any income other than what is contained in the Schedule hereto annexed and by me subscribed -
Real Estate Twenty five Acres of Land lying in the Town of Lake Pleasant on which is a small frame Barn. The above in the county of Montgomery. above said - personal Estate 3 cows, 2 old horses, 1 yoke two year old steers, 3 yearlings 3 pigs one old steer 18 sheep, 2 fowls, 5 chairs, 2 chests, 6 cups & saucers, 4 spoons, 3 knives & forks, 1 Table, 1 small looking Glass, 3 bowls, 1 old harrow & plow 1 old waggon 1 set old harness 1 three year old heifer, 1 large iron kettle 1 small pot 1 tea kettle, That I owe debts to the amount of one hundred dollars, That I am a farmer by occupation and have not been able to make use of one of my Sholders for Eighteen months past, I have five in the family residing with me for whom I provide my wife is fifty one and is weakly one Daughter Twenty two - two Boys one Eighteen and the other twelve and one grand child

of nine years of age - and that I have no other means of living than above described
Sworn to and declared in Joseph Davis Open Court of Montgomery com. Common pleas on the 13 th day of June 1820 - John M c Carthy Clerk
State of New York } Montgomery County } Clerks Office - }
I John M c Carthy Clerk of the Court of Common pleas in and for the said County and hereby certify that the foregoing Oath and the Schedule thereto annexed are truly copied from the record of the said Court, and I further certify that it is proved to the satisfaction of the said Court by the oaths of credible wit- nesses, and that it is the opinion of the said Court that the total amount in value, of the property exhibited in the aforesaid schedule is Two hundred & seventy five dollars and Twen- ty Cents - In Testimony whereof I have here- unto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the said Court on the 26 th day of June 1820
Jno M c Carthy

Joseph Davis & Elizabeth his wife
to David Dunning
copy accd.

This Indenture made, the eighth day of February, in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and twenty five. Between Joseph Davis and Elizabeth his wife of the town of Lake Pleasant, in the county of Montgomery, and State of New York of the first part. And David Dunning of the town, county and State aforesaid of the second part. Witnesseth that the said party of the first part, for and in consideration of the sum of Two hun- dred dollars, money of account of the United States, to them in hand paid, by the said party of the second part, the receipt whereof is hereby confessed and acknowledged, hath granted, bargained, sold, remised, released, aliened and confirmed; and by these presents, doth grant, bargain, sell, remise, re- lease, alien and confirm, unto the said party of the second part, and to his heirs and assigns forever. All that part, parcel or farm of land, situate lying and being in township number two, in a tract known by the name of Fotten and Broosfield pur- chase in Jessup patent, in the town, county and State aforesaid, being part of lot number four, in said township number two. Beginning at a soft maple tree, standing on the south bank of coon lake, & running thence south thirty degrees and thirty minutes East ten chains and twenty five links, thence south fifty nine degrees and thirty minutes west, twenty five chains, thence north thirty degrees and thirty minutes ten chains and twenty five links to the shore of coon lake, thence along the shore of coon lake to the place of beginning containing twenty five acres of land, be the same more or less. Together with all and singular, the hereditaments and

appurtenances therein to belonging or in anywise appertaining and the revision and revision, re- mainder and remainders, rents issues and profits thereof; and all the estate, right, title, interest, claim and demand whatsoever of the said party of the first part, either in law or equity or in and to the above bargained premises, with the said hereditaments and appurtenances. So have and to hold the said premises with their and every of their rights members and appurtenances, to the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns, to the sole and only proper use, benefit and behoof of the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns forever. And the said parties of the first part for themselves, their heirs executors and administrators, doth covenant, grant, bargain, promise and agree, to and with the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns, to warrant and forever to defend, the above bargained premises, and every part and parcel thereof, now being in the quiet and peaceable possession of the said party of the second part, against the said parties of the first part, their heirs, executors, administrators and assigns, and against all and every other person or persons, claiming or to claim the said premises or any part thereof. In witness whereof, the said parties of the first part, hath hereunto set their hands and seals, the day and year first above written. Joseph Davis (Seal). Elizabeth his wife Davis (Seal) Sealed and delivered in the presence of George Wright. John B. Peck. State of New York, Montgomery County ss. On the fifth day of February, in the year

of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and Twenty five, before me Wm B. Peck, a Judge of the court of Montgomery County, came the within named Grantors Joseph Davis and Elizabeth his wife, persons to me well known, who severally ac- knowledged the within deed, to be their respective voluntary act and deed, and that they signed, sealed, & delivered the same, to and for the purposes and uses therein mentioned. Once the said Elizabeth being by me examined separate and apart from her said husband, confessed that she executed the same freely without any fear or compulsion of her said husband. And I having examined the within instrument, and finding therein no material erasures or inter- lineation, do allow it to be recorded.
Wm B. Peck. Judge
State of New York.
of Montgomery County.
Montgomery County ss. I Henry B. Yates Clerk of the said County, and Clerk of the court of common pleas of the said county, do certify that the foregoing is a true copy of the original deed, delivered to me in open court. February 12 th 1825.
Henry B. Yates Clerk

Joseph Davis Pension afft D 15584.
Answer to
Geo. A. Hooker Conewango Cattaraugus Co N.Y.
adm d
2 years per
80 00

State of New York County of Cattaraugus On this third day of October 1832 personally appeared in open Court before the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas of the County of Cattaraugus Joseph Davis a resident of the town of New Albion in the County of Cattaraugus and State of New York aged seventy years who being duly sworn according to Law doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provisions made by the act of Congress passed June 7th 1832 That he enlisted in the Army of the United States in the month of March in the year One thousand seven hundred and eighty one with and served in the Third Regiment of the Massachusetts line under the following named officers to wit in Capt - Watson company so called though commanded by Lieutenant - Holdridge in Colonel Graton's regiment and General - Patterson's Brigade - That he enlisted for the term of three years that he was discharged in the month of December 1783 That he resided in the town of Western County of Worcester and State of Massachusetts when he entered the service That he was not in any battle during his term of service That he joined the Army at West Point that he marched from thence to Verplank's Point thence to Boston river and then returned to West Point and was stationed in that vicinity during the period of his service
I hereby relinquish every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present and declare that my name was inscribed on the pension roll under the Law of 1818 and was stricken from the pension roll under the Law of 1821 on account of property that his first application was made in the year 1819 and that his name is not on the pension roll of any agency in any state or if any only on that of the Agency in the State of New York Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid Joseph Davis Dan Allen Senior Judge
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion that the above named applicant was a revolutionary soldier and served as he states
I John W. Staunton Clerk of the said Court of Common Pleas do hereby certify that that the foregoing contains the original proceedings in the matter of the application of Joseph Davis for a pension In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this third day of October eighteen hundred and thirty two John W. Staunton, Clerk

Joseph Savio New York N o 15584.

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office,
Sir:
The evidence in support of your claim, under the act of June 7, 1832, has been examined, and the papers are herewith returned. The following is a statement of your case in a tabular form. On comparing these papers with the following rules, and the subjoined notes, you will readily perceive that objections exist, which must be removed, before a pension can be allowed. The notes and the regulations will shew what is necessary to be done. Those points to which your attention is more particularly directed, you will find marked in the margin with a brace, (thus: { ). You will, when you return your papers to this Department, send this printed letter with them; and you will, by complying with this request, greatly facilitate the investigation of your claim.
A Statement, shewing the Service of Joseph Davis
   Period when the service was rendered. Duration of the claimant's service. Rank of the claimant. Names and Rank of the Company officers under whom he served. Names and Rank of the General and Field officers. Battles in which the applicant was engaged. Country through which he marched. Place of abode when he entered the service, and age at the present period. Evidence by which the declaration is supported.   Years. Months. Days.     March 1781 enlisted 3 Pri. Capt. W. H. Col. son Lt. Holdseal ridge Branton Patterson 73 years Worcester N. H. K.  
I am, respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
applied under the act of 1818
J. L. EDWARDS, Commissioner of Pensions.

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

will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case. The facts stated will afford one of the principal means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition, if one be attempted; and unless, therefore, these are amply and clearly set forth, no favorable decision can be expected. All applicants will appear before some Court of Record in the County, in which they reside, and there subscribe and be sworn to, one of the declarations above provided, according to the nature of his case.
The Court will propound the following ( m ) interrogatories to all applicants for a pension, on account of service in the Militia, State troops, or Volunteers, except the Militia of New Hampshire and the State troops of Virginia.
 1. Where and in what year were you born?  2. Have you any record of your age, and if so, where is it?  3. Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary war, and where do you now live?  4. How were you called into service; were you drafted, did you volunteer, or were you a substitute? And if a substitute, for whom?  5. State the names of some of the Regular Officers, who were with the troops, where you served; such Continental and Militia Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your services.  6. { To a Soldier. } Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if so, by whom was it given and what has become of it? { To an Officer. } Did you ever receive a commission, and if so, by whom was it signed, and what has become of it? 
7. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood, and who can testify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution.
The Court will see that he answers to these questions are embodied in the declaration, and they are requested to annex their opinions of the truth of the statement of the applicant.
The applicant will further produce in Court, if the same can be done, in the opinion of the Court, without too much expense and inconvenience to him, two respectable persons -one of whom should be the nearest clergyman, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of such applicant, who can testify, from their acquaintance with him, that they believe he is of the age he represents, and that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood to have been a Revolutionary soldier, and that they concur in that opinion. If one of these persons is a Clergyman, the Court will so certify, and they will also certify, to the character and standing of other persons, giving such certificates.
The traditional evidence of service is deemed very important, in the absence of any direct proof, except the declaration of the party. And the Courts are requested to be very particular in the enquiry whether the belief is general, and whether any doubts have ever existed upon the subject.
Applicants unable to appear in Court by reason of bodily infirmity, may make the declaration before required, and submit to the examination, before a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record of the proper county, and the Judge or Justice will execute the duties, which the Court is herein requested to perform, and will also certify that the applicant cannot, from bodily infirmity, attend the Court.
Whenever any official act is required to be done by a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or by a Justice of the peace, the certificate of the Secretary of State or Territory, or of the proper Clerk of the Court or County, under his seal of office, will be annexed, stating that such person is a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or a Justice of the Peace, and that the signature annexed is his genuine signature.
No payments can be made on account of the services of any person, who may have died before the taking effect of the act of June 7, 1832; and in case of death subsequent thereto, and before the declaration herein required is made, the parties interested will transmit such evidence as they can procure, taken and authenticated before a Court of Record, showing the services of the deceased, the period of his death, the opinion of the neighborhood respecting such services, the title of the claimant, and the opinion of the Court upon the whole matter.
[a] The declarant must appear in open Court, unless prevented from doing so by reason of bodily infirmity; in which case the declarant will follow the rule laid down for his guidance.
[b] The declarant must make his declaration in the county where he resides. If he should fail to do so, he must assign a sufficient reason for not conforming to the rule.
[c] The age of the claimant must invariably be mentioned.
[d] The declarant must mention the period or periods of the war when he served.
[e] Every continental officer or soldier must give the name of the Colonel under whom he served; otherwise a satisfactory examination of the claim cannot be had. Every claimant must state, with precision, the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the Department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled. In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the loss of memory, state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words:
"Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service; but, according to the best of his recollection, he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades:—For _____ year _____ months, and _____ days, I served as a _____. For _____ months and _____ days, I served as a _____; and for such service I claim a pension."
It is important, in all cases, to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service. The use of the phrase about three or four months , is too indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable. Some persons who apply for pensions merely state that they served two years in the militia, &c. without specifying the tours, the names of the officers, and other particulars respecting their service. This form of a declaration is highly objectionable. It must, in every case, be clearly shown under what officers the applicant served; the duration of each term of engagement; the particular place or places where the service was performed; that the applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by competent authority; that he was either in the field or in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil pursuit.
[f] The law makes the relinquishment indispensable.
[g] The opinion of the Court is always required.
[h] The Clerk must give his certificate in every case.
[i] The Clerk must affix his seal, and if it has no device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal, or if he has no public seal of office, the certificate of a Member of Congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should accompany the papers.
Mode of authenticating papers.
In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticates the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which contains the affidavit, or other papers authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon, the ends of which must pass under the seal of office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any paper from being improperly attached to the certificate.
Proof of Service.
[j] In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses, who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of the claimant's entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged. The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
[k] The notes from [a] to [e] are all equally applicable to the cases of Militia men, Volunteers and State Troops. The proof required by rule in note [j] applies to continental troops only.
[l] This traditional evidence is indispensable in militia cases.
[m] If a witness cannot be found, the declarant must state the fact.
[n] The answers to the interrogatories must all be written, and sent to the War Department, with the declaration.

15062 INVALID.
File No. 15062
Joseph Davis Priv. Rev. War
Act: June 7 th 1832
Index:—Vol. /, Page 128
[Arrangement of 1870.]

See letter to H. Y. Yates Esq Rochester N.Y. March 29 th 1825. D

13.784 New York
Joseph Davis.
late pleasant in the state of New York who was a private — in the regiment commanded by Colonel Greene of the Mass'ts line, for the term of 3 years
Inscribed on the Roll of New York at the rate of Eight Dollars per month, to commence on the 20 th of April 1818.
Certificate of Pension issued the 5 of Aug. 1819 and sent to Abby Starkweather. Galway. N.Y.
Arrears to 4th of Mar 1819 — 83.96
Semi-ann. all'ce ending Sept 4. 1819 48.00
(10 mo 1/30 1/3)
Doll. 131.96
{ Revolutionary claim, Act 18th March, 1818. }
$131.96
Struck from the roll under the law of the 17 May 1820

Notification sent to J. L. Lobdell Esq. 5 July 1820. Notification sent to Johnstown P. G.

Joseph Davis,
New York,
Private. Lived from 1781 to '83 25 acres of land & small farm build 3 cows - 2 old horses - 1 yoke 2 yr old steers 3 yearlings - 3 pigs old & new - 18 sheep & a few articles of furniture, etc. value by const. $275.20 Dues $100. - Sched: 18 th June 1820. -
Sched: 12 th Feb. 1825, Cow - 10 sheep - 1 Pig - and a few articles of furniture, value by const. $27. - Sold 25 acres of stony land to D. Dunning for $200, applied to the payment of just debts, Personal property consumed for the necessa- ry support of his family during his sickness. Copy of deed to Dunning exhibited dated 5 Feb. 1825, O. Davis, affidavit states that he's claimant in 1824, bought of A. D. a two horse wagon, gave their joint note for $55. Wagon was paid for by D. Dunning, states that he afterwards bought the said wagon of claimant and paid debts in name to D. Dunning for dressing cloth & clothing and for several years, $18 - to the overseer of the poor $5.50, sold claimant a cow for $14. - also a book of account against claimant for labor in 1821 & 1822, amounting to $25.50. Joseph D. Davis, affidavit, due him $60 for goods and grains which had been accumulating for several years, also a debt paid by D. D. of $12. States that the payment of the above debts was made by Dunning in part payment of land right of claimant. - A. D. Davis, affidavit relative to sale of the two horse wagon to claimant, Henry H. Yates, Esq. clerk of the United States claimant to be a very poor and worthless man,
Claimant aged 63, about 3 years ago
That his arm accidentally broken and fractured his left leg in such a man- ner that he has not been able to work any since, and has become much reduced in his circumstances, wife 55 very weakly.
I certify that I have examined this case after an of the opinion, that, according to the principles which have governed in previous decisions, the claim ought to be admitted,
per letter June
9. 1825 'to
H. H. Yates Esq.
(wait)
Johnston,
D. Dunning affidavit exhibited. States that in Feb. 1824 he bought of claim- ant 25 acres of land for $200, which he has paid for claimant as follows, to A. D. Davis $58 - to D. Spicer $60 - a note of hand and book of account against claimant by depos- itor $52 being for cash at sundry times and previous forms to claimant's family has obligated himself to pay S. Rich $30 for several years past rent.
(S. 191)
(Last evidence June 1 st 1825)

STATE OF NEW-YORK, } ss. SARATOGA COUNTY. }
ON this Twentieth day of April 181 8 , before me the subscriber, one of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the county of Saratoga and state of New-York, personally appears Joseph Davis aged fifty six years, resident in the town of Lake Pleasant in the County of Montgomery in the said state, who being by me first duly sworn, according to law, doth, on his oath, make the following declaration, in order to obtain the provision made by the late act of Congress, entitled "An act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the revolutionary war:" That the said Joseph Davis enlisted in the town of Western in the state of Massachusetts in the company commanded by Capt. Lieut. Holden in a Regt. commanded by Col. Green of the Massachusetts Line for the term of three years or three months at most until 1781 the year Seventeen hundred Eighty three when he was discharged from service at the Garrison at West Point and state of New York and that he is in reduced circumstances, and stands in need of the assistance of his country for support; and that he has no other evidence now in his power of his said services, and that his Discharge is either Lost or Destroyed  Joseph Davis
Sworn to and declared before me, the day and year aforesaid. Avery Stakweather Judge of Common Pleas Saratoga County
I Avery Stakweather Judge, &c. as aforesaid, do certify that it appears to my satisfaction that the said Joseph Davis did serve in the revolutionary war, as stated in the preceding declaration, against the common enemy; and I now transmit the proceedings and testimony taken and had before me, to the Secretary for the War Department, pursuant to the directions of the aforesaid act of congress. Dated April 20th 181 8 Avery Stakweather
STATE OF NEW-YORK, } ss : In testimony that the above named SARATOGA COUNTY, } Avery Stakweather is a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the county of Saratoga and state of New-York, and that the above is his signature, I subscribe my name and affix the county seal, this 19th day of May in the year 181 8
Wm. H. Atwell Clerk of the County of Saratoga.

Post Office FREE
Rec d June 6. 1825
The Secretary at War
City of Washington

FREE
Post Office
Recd
June 6. 1825
City of Washington
The Secretary at War

State of New York Montgomery County S t . Clerk's office Jan y 1 st 1829
Sir,
I now enclose to you three affidavits in the case of Joseph Davis, a very poor worthy man, which I hope will prove satisfactory to you.
Henry H. Yates
I'm Secretary at War.

Affidavit Joseph Spier
27 th May 1825

State of New York I Personally appeared before Montgomery County ss ( me Ruben Sloum Esq one of the Justices assigned to keep the peace in and for the County aforesaid Joseph Spier who being duly sworn deponeth and saith that on or about the 26 th of last January David Bunning of the Town of John  St. Lawrence in the County aforesaid - agreed to pay A Debt Due this deponent of Forty three Dollars Also A Debt due this deponent for of - - seventeen Dollars which debts have been several years accumulating for Sundry Articles of Merchandise and Grain &c together with A Debt paid by this deponent to Asa Miller Jr of twelve Dollars which this deponent understood was for the use of the family of the said David
And this deponent further saith that he was informed that the sum  amount of the payment of the forementioned said sixty Dollars by the said David Bunning afore- said to this deponent was as part payment for A Farm of Land bought by the said David Bunning as aforesaid of the said Joseph Spier as aforesaid And further this deponent said Not
Sworn to and subscribed this 27 th day of May 1825
Joseph Spier
before me Ruben Sloum justice

State of New York Montgomery county ss. I Henry P. Yates Clerk of the said county, do certify that Joseph  Reuben  Flora  Florum whose name is subscribed to the within affidavit, is the pro- per hand writing of the said Reuben Florum That the said Reuben was on the day of the date of the said affidavit, one of the Justices of the peace of the said county, duly consti- tuted and qualified according to law and that faith is due to his official acts. Witness my seal of office, this first day of June, in the year of our Lord, one thou- sand eight hundred and twenty five.
Henry P. Yates Clerk.

Affidavit of Orange Davis.
2 o May 1825.
H. H. Bates Esq.
Johnstown

Affidavit of Orange Davis 20 May 1825
H. T. Bates Esq
Johnstown

State of New-York Montgomery County ss Personally appeared before Wm. H. D. C. one of the Justices assigned to keep the peace in and for the County aforesaid, Orrange Davis - who being duly sworn deposeth and saith that on, or about, the 25 th day of October in the year 1824 this deponent and Joseph Davis bought of Abram Damon of the Town of Northampton in the County aforesaid a two horse wagon for which this deponent and the said Joseph Davis gave their joint Note therefor for the then sum of fifty ten five Dollars and the said wagon as aforesaid was afterwards paid for by Joseph Davis as aforesaid through, and by, David Bunning of the Town of Lake Pleasant in the County aforesaid on account, and part, for land sold to the said David Bunning by Joseph Davis in January or February last past - and further this deponent saith, that the said wagon has since been purchased by him of the said Joseph as aforesaid for the sum of fifty eight Dollars being the amount of principle and interest of the purchased money for said wagon - and that he has paid therefor in the following manner - to Samuel Duncan of Northampton in the County aforesaid sixteen Dollars for several years service in dressing Cloth and Carding wool - and also to the overseer of the poor of the Town of Lake Pleasant as aforesaid the amount of a note of hand held by them against the said Joseph Davis for money borrowed in the year 1814, the sum of five Dollars and fifty Cents - and also supplied the said Joseph Davis a clove for the use of his family worth fourteen Dollars - and also a book account which this deponent had against the said Joseph Davis (page 1)

for work and labor done in the year 1021 at sundry days and times during said year and the year 1022, at a time when the the said Joseph Davis was entirely helpless in consequence of breaking one of his legs - the sum of twenty five dollars and fifty Cents. and further this deponent saith not.
Sworn to and subscribed before me - this 2 d day of Orange Davis May in the year 1825
- Wm B. Peck Justice
State of New York Montgomery County ss. I certify that William B. Peck before whom the above affidavit was made is one of the Justices of the peace of the said county. Witness my seal of office. June first 1825. Henry J. Yates Clerk.
(Signature of Henry J. Yates)

1 March 1823
Joseph Slavins
Henry F. Yates
Johnston
at Washington 1824
The Honorable
Rec. 11 June 1825

The Honorable
The Secretary of War
Washington City
Feb 11th 1865

State of New York, Montgomery County Clerks office June 6 th 1925.
Sir
A few days since I sent you a number of affidavits in the matter of Joseph Davis a U. S. pensioner. This morning I discover, that the enclosed affidavit ought to have also been sent, it was mislaid by one of my clerks. I think the department will now be satisfied of the justice of restoring Mr. Davis, who is a poor and worthy man, to the pension list.
Respectfully
Yours.
Henry P. Yates Clerk
The Secretary at War.

State of New York Montgomery County ss. Johnstown. Clerks office February 21 st 1825.
Sir
I have been requested to forward to your department, the enclosed papers of Joseph Davis, and to request the favor of you to convey your answer, or any communication you have to make on the subject to me.
Yours.
Henry J. Yates
The Secretary at War.

Dear Sir, Gen. Marsh P.H. June 4 th
I am requested to enquire of you if the widows or heirs of the soldiers of the Revolutionary War are entitled to back pay, while in service in that war. A neighbour of mine, Mrs. Sophia Nichols, whose father's name was Joseph Davis, once drew a pension from Government, that is a part of the time, before he died, and she wishes to know if his heirs are not now entitled to a claim for land and back pay, she is in low circumstances, so her children, also, for examining the Records you will find the name of Joseph Davis, either in the N.Y. or Conn. lines of soldiers. If you will do so,

you will do a favor for the poor and needy, please answer this at your earliest convenience practicable. She wishes to know what proof is sufficient to establish her claim provided she is entitled to it.
Address Mrs. Marsh P.H., Allegan Co., Mich.
Yours Very Respectfully J. R. Holcomb P.H.,

Not sufficient data to identify within-named Joseph Davis with Joseph Davis S. F. 15,062. P

Oct 11
15584
Dear Sir,
Pension Bureau Washington
He says he prefers the canal to the railroad and the canal from the canal under M.P.R.

Oct 11
Oct 19
N.Y.
155-84
Hon Lewis
He says to prefer the same to the M. S. S. and from the card under M. S. S.
Pension Bureau Secretary of War Washington

22 Sir
I her inclose the affidavit of Joseph Davis a revolutionary soldier formerly on the pension roll but who was stricken from it on account of property -
You will please address the Certificate or answer to the subscriber at Conewango Cattaraugus Co New York
Yours & George A. Crocker

Joseph Davis
Pension Declaration
15 th Feb. 1825

State of New York Montgomery Co. ss. On the 12 th day of Febru- ary 1825 personally appeared in open court, the said court being a court of record, within the contempla- tion of the act of Congress, according to the proceedings of the common law, having the power of fine and imprisonment for the said County of Montgomery Joseph Davis aged Sixty three years the 13 th day of December last, being a resident citizen in said County, who being first duly sworn, doth on his Oath declare, that he served in the revolutionary war as follows viz. That he enlisted into the service of the United States some time in March 1781. at the town of Western, in the State of Massachusetts for the term of three years, That he served in commandant Lieutenants Bridges company, in Colonel Graytons regiment, in the Massachu- setts line on the Continental establishment, and continued in said corps until December 1783, when he was honorably discharged at West-point in the State of New York; That the date of his original de- claration is the 20 th day of April 1818. and the number of his certificate which he has received is 13.784. Ever I do solemnly swear that that I was a resident citizen of the United States, on the 18 th day of March 1818, and that I have not since that time by gift, sale or otherwise or in any manner dispose of any property, or any part thereof, with intent thereby so to diminish it, as to bring myself within the provisions of an act of Congress entitled "An act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the revolutionary war passed on the 18 th day of March 1818, and that I have

have not, nor has any person in trust for me, any property or securities, contracts or debts due to me, nor have I any income, other than what is contained in the schedule hereto annexed and by me subscribed.
Of real estate, I have none, personal estate, one cow, 10 sheep, 1 pig, 3 chairs, 1 table, 1 chest, 6 cups and saucers, 1 pot, 4 spoons, 1 small looking glass, 2 bowls, 6 fowls. And that I owe debts to the amount of one hundred dollars. Joseph Davis
Sworn in open court 12 th day of February 1825.
Henry G. Yates Clerk.
And I do further on oath declare, that since the time of the making and filing of my former schedule, as herein before by me set forth, I have sold & conveyed, twenty five acres of stony land, then by me owned, to one David Dunning of the said town of Lake-Pheasant, for the sum of two hundred dollars, which money has since that time be applied for the payment of my just and honest debts. And I have since that time paid off and discharged the debts following to wit, to David Dunning $52. to Abraham Denson $57. to Joseph Spiers $63. to Joshua Rich $30. making in the whole an aggregate of $202.
And further that the personal property contained in my former schedule, and not contained in the schedule hereto annexed, has since that time been consumed for the necessary support of myself and family during my sickness. And that about three years ago last September, I met with an accident, which broke and fractured my left leg in such a

Manner that I have not been able to work any since, and in consequence of which, I have been much reduced in my circumstances; and that some time last winter in the month of February, I have my left shoulder broken, in such a manner as to render it almost entirely useless. That I have a wife to support who is fifty five years of age, and is very weakly, and have now no means of supporting myself and wife
Joseph Davis
Sworn in open Court, 12 th February 1825
Henry H. Yates Clerk.
State of New York
Montgomery County ss. I Henry H. Yates Clerk of the Court aforesaid, and Clerk of the Court of common-pleas of the said County, do hereby certify, that the foregoing Oath, and the Schedule thereto annexed, are truly copied from the records of the said Court; I also certify that the Court were satisfied, that the claimant served for the term of nine months, under an engagement, on the continental establishment; and I do further certify, that it is the opinion of the said Court, that the total amount in value of the property exhibited in the aforesaid Schedule is Twenty Seven dollars.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said Court, on this Twelfth day of February 1825.
Henry H. Yates Clerk

Affidavit of Abraham Damon
10 th May 1825

State of New-York } ss. Personally appeared before me Montgomery County } Nathaniel Weseat — one of the Justices assigned to keep the peace in, and for, the County of Aforesaid, Abram Darnon — who being duly sworn deposith and saith, that on or about the twenty fifth day of October in the year 1824 this deponent sold Orange Davis a two Horse waggon — for which this deponent received a joint Note of hand therefor, for the sum of fifty five Dollars, signed by the said Orange Davis, and Joseph Davis, (as being the amount of the purchase money of said waggon) aforesaid — and this deponent further saith that on or about the first of February 1825 the aforesaid joint Note was taken up by David Dunning, of the Town of Lake Pleasant in the County aforesaid, to the account of Joseph Davis aforesaid, as this deponent was informed and verily believes, that this arrangement and payment by David Dunning aforesaid to the amount of the said Note aforesaid, was as part payment to Joseph Davis aforesaid for a farm of Land sold by the said Joseph to the said David, both as afore- said. and further this deponent saith not.
Sworn to, and subscribed      Abraham Darnon before me this 10 th day of May in the year 1825 —
Nathaniel Weseat — Justice

State of New York Montgomery County ss. I certify that Nathaniel Gilchrist before whom the within affidavit was made, is one of the Justices of the peace of the said County. June 11th 1825. Henry H. Yates Clerk

Francis Dunning Affidavit.

State of New York Monmouth County ss. Personally appeared before me, one of the justices assigned to keep the peace in and for the County aforesaid, David Bunning, to me known to be the person described in and who executed the foregoing instrument, and acknowledged that he executed the same for the sum of two hundred Dollars and that the receipt thereof is hereby acknowledged. Given under my hand and the seal of said justice this 10th day of August, 1871.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 2 nd Day of May in the year of 1825. Wm. H. H. Justice
David Dunning

State of New York Montgomery County ss. I Henry J. Yates clerk of the said County, do certify that William B. Peck Esquire before whom the within Affidavit was made, was at the time of taking the said Affidavit, one of the Justices of the Peace of the said County duly constituted and qualified accor- ding to law. Witness my hand and seal of office. June 6 th 1825.
Henry J. Yates Clk

Joseph Davis - a private - town of Lake Pleasant - Montgomery, N. York - enlisted in March 1781 for 3 Yrs. in Col. Graytons regiment: Mapt. line. Discharged in December 1783.
1 st Schedule 30 th June 1820
25 Acres of land with a small barn thereon in the town of Lake Pleasant aforesaid
3 Cows, 2 old horses, 1 Yoke 2 Yr. old Steers - 3 Yearlings - 3 pigs, an old mare, 18 Sheep, 2 fowls, 5 chairs, 2 chests, 6 cups & saucers - 4 Spoons, 3 knives forks - 1 table - 1 small looking glass - 3 bowls - 1 old harrow 1 plough 1 old waggon - 1 set old harness - 1 3 Yr old heifer - 1 large iron kettle 1 small pot - 1 tea kettle. Articles not separately valued.
Total Valuation. $275 20
Owes $100. Creditors names not given.
Discontinued 5 th July 1820.
Applies to be restored under Act 1823 (March)
2 nd Schedule dated 12 th Feb 1825
1 Cow, 10 Sheep, 1 pig, 3 chairs, 1 table, 1 chest, 6 cups and saucers 1 pot, 4 Spoons, 1 small looking glass, 2 bowls, 6 fowls.
Valued in aggregate at. $27 00
Owes $100
States that since his former schedule, he has sold his real estate to David Dunning for $200, and applied the same to the payment of his debts, to wit. to David Dunning 52.00. A. Damon 57.00. Jos. Speers 63.00. Joshua Rich $30.00. total $202.
That the remainder of his personal property, not herein recited, has been used for support of his family during his sickness.
Deed of claimant and wife to Dunning exhibited, dated, acknow- ledged, and delivered for record. 5 th Feb: 1825. Certified to be a true copy Henry J. Yates, clerk, but seal omitted.
By respective affidavits it appears that David Dunning has paid Feb 1825. Abraham Damon's 3 55.00 demand of claimant for a two horse waggon sold in 1824 3 26. Jan'y 1825. he assumed to pay Joseph Speers claim 3 of "several years" standing for merchandise & grain 3 60.00 Amount proved to be discharged. $115.00
No evidence of other payments made by Dunning on account of land bought except what is stated in the claimant's Declaration - (see above)

consequently $85, balance due on land, yet to be regularly accounted for.
The specific appropriation of personal property, and its value, for family use, not particularly stated.
Orange Davis bought a 2 horse waggon of claimant since 1824 for $58. in consideration whereof has paid for him, to Samuel Duncan for "several years service" in dressing cloth, and carding wool.
16. 00
to the Overseers of the poor of Lake Pleasant for money lent by them to the claimant in 1814
5. 50
furnished Ct with a Cow for family use
14. 00
said Davis took up of claimant for work and labor done in 1821, and 1822. for claimant, while he was confined with a broken leg
25. 50
$ 61. 00
Of the debts duly established only $5.14 was due previous to March 18 1818. It will be perceived that in several instances, the time when some of the foregoing debts was contracted is not stated, and the articles contracted for omitted.
Claimant is aged 63. a farmer, but disabled having had a leg and shoulder broken. Wife aged 55 very weakly.
I certify that I have examined this case, and according to the principles which have governed in former decisions, I am of the opinion the claim ought to be admitted.

Joseph Davis
Joseph Davis Private.
1780 to 1783
Granard Massachus t
Reg t
further evidence of service required

I Josiah Putnam of Western in the County of Worcester & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman being of lawful age do testify and say that Joseph Davis now living (as he saith) in the Town of Lake Pleasant, County of Montgomery and State of New York was living with me as an apprentice being his Guardian sometime about the month of March in the year Seventeen hundred and Eighty One did then Enlist in the Continental Service as a Soldier for the term of three years and I verily believe that he did serve as a Soldier for more than two years or until the three years men were discharged and then returned back to me and gave me his discharge which appeared to be an honorable Discharge I then took his discharge and laid it in my Desk and supposing it still to be there but cannot find it. Also I received letters from said Davis dated in camp during the time of his absence from me
Josiah Putnam
Leicester July 7 th 1819
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
WORCESTER, ss.
I, ABIJAH BIGELOW, Clerk of the Judicial Courts holden within and for said County of Worcester, certify, that Danforth Prees Esquire before whom the annexed Affidavit has been made, is a Justice of the Peace within and for said County, duly qualified for the purpose, acting under the authority of this Commonwealth, and that his name subscribed thereto is his own proper signature.
IN testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the County seal, this eighth day of July A. D. 1819.
Abijah Bigelow, Clerk
Application of Joseph Davis

I Josiah Putnam of Western in the County of Hampshire & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman being of lawful age do testify and say that Joseph Davis now living (as he saith) in the Town of Lake Pleasant, County of Montgomery and State of New York, was living with me as an Apprentice being his Guardian sometime about the month of March in the year nineteen hundred and Eighty One, did then Enlist in the Continental Service as a Soldier for the term of three years and I verily believe that he did serve as a Soldier for more than two years or until the three years men were discharged and then returned back to me and gave me his discharge which appeared to be an honorable Discharge I then took his discharge and laid it in my Desk and supposing it still to be there but cannot find it. Also I received letters from said Davis dated in camp during the time of his absence from me
Josiah Putnam
Gloucester July 7 th 1889
Then Josiah Putnam signor to the above Deposition Personally appeared and made solemn oath that the above Deposition contains the Truth the whole truth & nothing but the truth before me and said Josiah Putnam is a gentleman of credit and his oath will not be disputed in any Court whatever
Dearforth Hays Esq. Pease

I David Shepard of Western in the County of Hampshire and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Gentleman - Being of lawful age do testify and say that Joseph Davis now living (as he saith) in the Town of Lake Pleasant County of Montgomery and State of New York, being intimately acquainted with said Davis, did know of his Enlisting as a Soldier in the Continental Service in the year Seventeen hundred and Eighty One and was absent for two years or more, and frequently heard from him as being in said Service, and was acquainted with him after his return; and I verily believe that he did serve as a Soldier for more than two years or until the three years men were discharged
David Shepard
Borsetler July 7 th 1819 Then David Shepard signed to the above Deposition Personally appeared and made solemn oath that the above Deposition contains the truth the whole truth and nothing but the truth before me and the said David Shepard is a good man of Credit and his oath would not be rejected in any Court whatever
Benjamin H. Meyer Jr. Peace

State of New York } I do hereby certify that on the Tenth Saratoga County } Day of June one Thousand Eight hundred and Eighteen appeared before me Avery Starkweather then one of the judges of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Saratoga Jonathan Rich of the Town of Lake Pleasant in the County of Montgomery and State aforesaid and being by me Duly sworn Deposeth and saith that he is well acquainted with the circumstances of Joseph Davis named in the annexed Declaration and Declares that he is a person in Reduced Circumstances and stands in need of the assistance of his Country for Support Sworn to and subscribed } Jonathan Rich the Day and Year aforesaid } Before me Avery Starkweather } Judge as aforesaid — —

I Avery Starkweather judge of common pleas in and for Senatoga County Do hereby certify that from my own knowledge as well as from the affidavit of Jonathan Peck herunto annexed that it appears to my satisfaction that Joseph Davis named in the within Declaration is in reduced circumstances and stands in need of the assistance of his country. For Support given under my hand This tenth Day of June 1818
Avery Starkweather judge &c
please Direct the pension certificate to the post Office in Galway State of New York To Avery Starkweather Esqr
by Request of applicant

Abner Knight of the Town of New Lebanon County of Columbia being of lawfull age do testify that Joseph Davis now living in the Town of Lake Pleasant County of Montgomery & State of New York was an actual soldier in the United Regiment of Massachusetts for the term of one year or more in the Continental Service witness being an intitled soldier in the same Regiment witness says this service was performed in the year 1782 witness further states that this is a true affidavit according to the best of his knowledge & belief
Abner Knight Duly sworn & subscribed before me July the 14 th 1819 I firmly believe that the person who made oath to this affidavit is a person of truth & veracity John G. Dunning J. P.

State of New York Rensselaer County ss
I certify that John G. Dusenbury Esquire whose name is affixed to the within affidavit was on the fourteenth day of July One Thousand Eight Hundred & Nineteen One of the Justices of the peace for the County of Rensselaer & that I am acquainted with the hand writing of the said Dusenbury & truly believe his signature to be his own hand writing In witness whereof I have hereunto set my name & affixed the Seal of the said County this Sixteenth day of July 1819
Joseph D. Selden Clerk