Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 2,571, Phinehas Culver, Conn. New York

SERVICE
Culver, Phinehas
NUMBER
Home New York
R. 2571
CONTENTS
Blank lined area for contents entry
Blank lined area for contents entry

(copy)
State of New York, Tompkins County } S.S.
At a Surrogate Court held in and for the County of Tompkins, at the Surro- gate's office in the village of Ithaca in said coun- ty on the _____ day of August 1842, Present
Arthur S. Johnson Surrogate Personally appeared in open court (believed to be a court of record) Thineas Culver, a resident of the town of Hector in said county aged eighty one years the seventeenth day of March last past, who first 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 May 15th 1828.
That he enlisted in the army of the United States on or about the sixth day of March in the year 1779, at Hackett's town in the county of Sussex and State of New Jersey with Capt Jacob DeWitt and in general James Clinton's regiment, that he im- mediately repaired to Sussex Court House the place of rendezvous, and served as a pri- vate in the said DeWitt's company in the third regiment (as he now thinks) of the Battle line, under the following named officers, and after so remaining at Sussex Court House about two months, he was exchanged into the compa- ny of Capt John Spaulding, with whom he marched about the middle of June 1779, to Wilksbarre in the State of Pennsylvania

where Colonel Zebulon Butler was in command where he remained nearly the full period of his enlistment which was for nine months, when the company marched back to Easton and was discharged by capt. Spaulding, that he at that time received an honorable discharge from said Captain Spaulding, which discharge has been mislaid, burned or lost. That he then returned home late in the fall of the year 1779, where his mother resided which was about two and a half miles from Hackett's town in the county of Sussex and State of New Jersey and where he remained until the Spring of 1780, when he again enlisted into the company of Captain Jacob DeWitt, and in the same Regiment as second Sergeant for during the war.
That at the time of his second enlistment aforesaid he was informed by capt. De Witt that he would be entitled to a reward of eighty dollars. That Captain DeWitt paid him at the time of his enlistment two pounds ($5.00) and was to pay him the balance of said reward when he rendezvoused at Sussex Court House, which was to be soon after. This was at Hackett's town, and immediately thereafter rendezvoused at Sussex Court House. On the sixth day of June of that year, he received his certificate of enlistment as second Sergeant in Capt. Jacob DeWitt's company, which Capt. De Witt wrote in his presence and handed to him, of which the following is a copy. "This may certify that Phineas Butler has"

this fifth day of June, one thousand seven hundred and eighty enlisted for during the war and in my company and is to have the second Sergeants com d ."
Jacob Seltill, Captain."
The original of which certificate is heret. attached. That he served eighteen months as ordery Sergeant and the remaining part as second Sergeant, that he was a portion of the time in the second and a portion in the third regiments of the United States army. That Colonel Van Courtland was his colonel a great portion of the time, that J. B. Becker and Levi Becker (soldiers now dead) were in his mps.
That during the year 1780 he performed the following service, that he with about forty of his company under Lieutenant Fisher, marched from Sussex Court House in the State of New Jersey to Tappan or Scapack in the State of New York, from thence he went with scouting parties sometimes under Lieutenant Fisher and sometimes in command of squads himself, first to Goshen and then through Shoemakers Mountain to Warwick, then to the Rosendale, then back to Tappan and in the Spring of 1781 the whole party returned to Sussex Court House. He then went again with Lieut Fisher and about forty soldiers to Shavers Kill at Schoenfeld and scouted from that post until July 1781. — from there they went to Drowned Land on

the Minnimasink, scouting - and returned back to Susquehanna Court House about the month of August 1781.
Then his Captain De Witt went with selected troops to Yorktown in Virginia, when he with Lieut. Fisher returned back to Tunkila with a party of about forty and remained there scouting until the Fall of 1782. Then he with about twenty- 25 five under the command of Lieut. Fisher marched to Mamaroneck Hollow in the State of New York, where they were on scouting service.
The applicant at that time had command of seven men as Sergeant in pursuit of the Indians, who had about two days previous burned a house there and committed other depredations, and being more fleet on foot than the rest of his party, he came upon an Indian in advance of his party and secured him. In the struggle with the Indian a soldier by the name of Grover or Glover came to his aid - and in that struggle the applicant had three ribs broken and the Indian thrust him upon the ground and pierced the palm of the right hand with a hemlock knot, which severely wounded the same. He was also badly wounded in the head at the same time.
After three or four days the applicant was taken back to Tunkila and from there to Susquehanna Court House, and the Indian was secured and taken to Orange Court House. The applicant remained in camp unable to do duty

from his wounds until March 1783, when he received from Captain Jacob Settle a furlough for sixty days, of which the following is a copy, as near as can be the original of which is hereto attached.
" General Clinton's Regiment. Whereas " Thomas Culen a sol d in this _____ is lame " in his hand occasioned by a _____ which renders " him unfit for duty — him pass for sixty days " and _____ order them to return to the same " be _____ wherever they may be stationed — " under my hand at Sussex Court — This 6th " day of May — 1783 Jacob _____ "
Within which furlough he returned to camp, at Sussex Court House, and from thence after remaining some days in camp he was ordered by Capt Settle back to Kingsport where he remained for sometime unable to do duty under Lieut Fisher from fatigues of his march and pressure of his wounds, which were not yet sound and his hand and side unfitting him for doing duty he again received a furlough for ninety days from Lieut Fisher, and while the applicant was absent on this furlough visiting his friends in the counties of Sussex and Morris in the state of New Jersey and still unable to do duty from his wounds and within the time of his furlough last mentioned, the army was disbanded without his knowledge, which last furlough mentioned has been lost, burned or mislaid. And the applicant

10 hereby relinquishes any claim to a pension or annuity except the present, and he declares that his name is not on the Pension roll of any agency in any state or territory. Phineas Culver.
Subscribed and sworn before me this 31st day of August 1842.
Arthur S. Johnson. Surrogate.
"This may certify that Phineas Culver has this six [tenth] day of June, one thousand seven hundred and eighty [tenth] has enlisted for during the war and in my company and is to have the second sergeants' com.
Jacob Settle, Capt."
General Clinton's Regiment
Whereas Phineas Culver a Sol dier in the Regt is lame in his hand occasioned by a wound which renders him unfit for duty and to him per m for sixty days and then longer then to return to the said Co mpany whenever they may be stationed under my under my hand at Sussex Court I this 8th day of Ma rch 1783. Jacob S ettle
Interrogatories by the Court.
1. Where and in what year were you born? Ans. I was born in Morris County, Roxbury township and State of New Jersey on the 17th day of

7 March 1761, from circumstances and incidents as nearly as I can recollect.
2. Have you any record of your age; and if so where is it?
Ans. I have none, the record of my Father's family was kept in the King's time at Burlington New Jersey as I believe, and my Father's house was burned with all its contents in the year 1765 (when I was four years of age) including the family Bible which had the record of my age in it, as I have always understood.
3. Where were you living when called into the service, where have you lived since the Revolution are now and where do you now live?
Ans. I was living in Morris county about two and a half miles from Hackett's Town in the State of New Jersey and I have lived since the war at Mount Hope Iron works in the same state. From thence I moved to Tazewell Point for a few days and went on and settled at Newtown in the State of New York, about the year 1791. From thence I removed to Bath in the county of Steuben and from thence back to Newtown where I got married, and then removed to Bath where I settled. From thence I removed to the town of Hector in the then county of Cayuga, since changed to Tompkins. I now reside part of the time in Ithaca and a part of the time at Mr. McIntire's settlement in the east part of the town of Hector. I have had no property or place of steady residence for the last sixteen years, but have quartered

about among my friends.
4. How were you called into service, were you drafted, did you volunteer or were you a substitute, and if a substitute, for whom? Ans. I enlisted into the regular army for nine months, which time of enlistment I served out and was regularly discharged. I then enlisted again for during the war, and served on active duty until the end of the war, including my two furloughs.
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 the service?
Ans. I knew Gen James Clinton, Colonel Van Courtland, Colonel Gebulon Butler, Capt Jacob DeWitt, Capt John Spaulding, Lieut. Fisher, and I sometimes received my pay from Capt. D. Witt and sometimes from Lieut. Fisher the paymaster's name of the third or second regiments I cannot remember. I received as sergeant five pounds ($12 50 / 100 ) per month. Colonel Butler's regiments were mostly Connecticut Troops, the other general circumstances are stated in his declaration hereto annexed.
6. Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, if so, by whom was it given, and what has become of it?
Ans. I did receive a regular discharge from the service, of so by whom and it gave and

what has become of it. Ans. I did receive a regular discharge from Capt John Spaulding at the termination of my first enlistment and I believe it was burned about the year 1799 at Newtown when my house and the principal part of my pa- pers were burned.
7. State the names of the 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?
Ans. Joshua Carpenter, now of the town of Fitz in the county of Chemung late Nathan B. Dodson, a clergyman residing in the town of Hector and Peter Biggs residing in the town of Hector in the county of Tompkins and State of New York, hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Shimeas Culver who has subscribed and sworn to the foregoing declaration, that we believe him to eighty one 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.
Joshua Carpenter Peter Biggs A. B. Dodson
Sworn and subscribed this 31st day of August 1842, before me, Arthur S. Johnson Surrogate

And I the said Surrogate do hereby declare my opinion after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department and after the investigation of the matter, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary soldier and served as he states. And I further certify that it appears to me that Nathan B. Dodson who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman resident in the county of Tompkins, and that Nathan B. Dodson, Joshua Carpenter and Peter Biggs, who have signed the preceding certificate are creditable persons and that their statements are entitled to credit. And that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said court in the matter of the application of Phineas Culver for a pension.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this 31 st day of August 1842.
Arthur S. Johnson, Surrogate.
Seal
State of New York Tompkins County S.S.
On this 23 rd day of August 1842 Peter Demarest came before me Robert H. Hall, a justice of the peace in and for the county of Tompkins, and being duly sworn, says, that he knew Phineas Culver at Manna Halling Hollow in the state of New Jersey about the year one thousand se-

11 one hundred and eighty two that said Culver was then serving in Captain De Witt's company of U.S. troops as second sergeant; and that he remembers said Culver from the circumstance that said Culver was wounded in taking an Indian at that place—that he has not seen said Culver since that time until the 16th of August inst. when said Culver called on this de- ponent to find a witness of his (Culver's) having joined in the United States army when the deponent knew the said Culver to be the same Culver whom he had known at Mi- amie calling Hollow while in the army.— that this deponent was at that time (1835) ser- ving in the state troops and is now a pensioner. Peter Demerest.
Subscribed and sworn this 23 d day of August 1840. before me,
R. H. Hall J. P.
I certify that I am acquainted with Pe- ter Demerest above mentioned, and believe him to be a reputable witness. R. H. Hall
State of New York County of Tompkins ss. I, Willet H. Goddard, clerk of the County of Tompkins, do hereby certify, that Robert H. Hall, Esquire, whose name is subscribed to the certificate of the proof or ac-

acknowledgement, of the annexed instrument, and therein written, was, at the time of taking such proof or acknowledgement, a justice of the peace in and for the county aforesaid, dwelling in the said county, commissioned and sworn, and du- ly authorized to take the same. And further, that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of such justice and rightly believe that the signature to the certificate of proof or acknow- ledgement is genuine.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said county the 31 st day of August 1842.
Seal
W. B. Goddard, Clerk.
State of New York
Tompkins County ss. On this 31 st day of August in the year 1842 Alvah Beebe came before me R. H. Hall, a justice of the peace in and for said county, and being duly sworn de- poses and says that he is acquainted with Phineas Cullen, who is now applying for a pension for services in the Revolutionary army, and that deponent is informed and believes that said Cullen has been prevented by a number of circumstances from before apply- ing for such pension that said Cullen has been made to learn of a soldier who knew him in the said army, although he has made diligent enquiries for a number of years past, that about 24 years ago he found one Decker who was in the army in Capt. Sillitt's

company and that said Decker died before he was called upon to make his affidavit. Deponent further says that certain valuable papers of said Culver have been sometime past pledged in the hands of one Mr. Manning for a sum of money (as deponent is informed and believes) and that deponent did advance the sum to said Manning, that among said papers were the said Culver's original certi- ficate of enlistment by Capt. Setbill of the U.S. Revolutionary army and also a furlough given by Captain Setbill, and that said Culver is a poor man and has been unable to procure testimony for that reason, and that he has been aided by his friends recently to go about the country and find the requisite testi- mony.
Deponent further says that from his own examination of said Culver and from those who have a long time known said Cul- ver he believes him fully entitled to his pension. Deponent has been acquainted with said Culver for a number of years, and is know- ing to his being poor and destitute, that from the effects of age and particularly the wounds said Culver is not in the opinion of this deponent capable of supporting himself.
Abraham Beebe.
Subscribed and sworn this 30th day of August 1842. before me
R. H. Hall, J. P.

14 I certify that I am acquainted with the above described Abiah Bates and believe him to be a respectable citizen.
R. H. Hull
State of New York
Tompkins County S.S. On this 27th day of August in the year 1840 Joshua Carpenter came before me William S. Johnson, a justice of the peace in and for the said county of Tompkins, and being duly sworn according to law, deposes and says that he resided in the town of Hector in said county, thirty three years since, and for nearly the whole period since that time, that he knew Eli- as Culver thirty two years ago, in said town of Hector, and has been acquainted with him ever since and that said Culver was then reported in the neighborhood, by the old and respectable inhabitants residing there at that time, to have been a soldier in the Revolutionary war, and has been so reported since, and is now. And that said Culver told this deponent on his first acquaintance thirty two years since, that he, Culver, was enti- tled to a pension for services in the said war, and for wounds therein received, but for the rea- son (as said Culver had been advised) that he ran away from his master to whom he had been indentured - in the state of New Jersey, and had enlisted - said Culver then said, also, that he had a furlough towards the

the end of the and that he served out his full time of enlistment which was during the war. Deponent further says that he is now, and always has been of the belief that Culver is entitled to a pension for service in the Revolutionary war and for wounds also, received therein. And also that said Culver is a man of truth and veracity. And further that said Culver has been for many years, broken down as to property and is now in actual need for support.
Joshua Carpenter.
Subscribed and sworn before me Aug. 27. 1842.
Arthur S. Johnson, Justice Peace.
I certify that I am acquainted with Joshua Carpenter who subscribed his name to the above affidavit, and believe him to be a reputable witness.
Arthur S. Johnson J.P.
State of New York
County of Tompkins ss. I, Willet B. Goddard, clerk of the county of Tompkins, do hereby certify, that Arthur S. Johnson, Esq., whose name is subscribed to the certificate of the proof or acknowledgement, of the annexed instrument, and thereon written, was at the time of taking such proof or acknowledgement, a justice of the peace in and for the county aforesaid, dwelling in the said county, commissioned

16 and more, and duly authorized to take the same.
And further, that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of such Justice and hereby believe that the signature to the said certificate of proof of acknowledgement is genuine.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said county the 31st day of August 1842.
W. B. Goodard, Clerk.
Seal
State of New York Tompkins County S.S.
In the matter of the application of Theineas Culver for a pension under the provision of the act of congress passed May 15th 1828, and also as an applicant for a pension as an Invalid Soldier of the Revolution under the act of congress passed April 24th 1816. The said Theineas Culver having herewith submitted to the proper department the papers and proceedings in that behalf as also his schedule which he wishes to be taken as a part and parcel thereof, being duly sworn according to law doth on his oath say that his property consists of the following articles, viz: one mare of the value of forty dollars, one saddle worth five dollars, and one wagon worth ten dollars, And he further states that he has no annuities or income

or income whatever. Nor has he any means of support arising from any interest present or remote, nor any property in trust or otherwise for his maintenance, and that the above set forth is all of any kind name or nature which he possesses. Thineas Culver.
Subscribed and sworn before me
this 31st day of August 1842.
Arthur T. Johnson J. Pease.
State of New York
Tompkins County S.S. We, the subscribers practicing physicians and surgeons of the village of Ithaca in the county of Tompkins and State of New York, do hereby certify that after a careful examination in the case of Thineas Culver (an applicant for a pension as an invalid soldier of the Revolution) we are of opinion that his disability occasioned by a wound in the right side whereby two or more ribs were fractured leaving a permanent tenderness of the contained parts; a wound in the palm of the right hand, causing a permanent contraction of the third finger; an injury to the thumb of that hand, causing an induration, thickening and and partial anchylosis of the joint; and also an injury of the forehead as indicated by scars, and which there is reason to believe has produced permanent functional derangement of the brain - And we further certify that the degree of disability under which he labors at present is two thirds (2/3) per

the printed letter heads arranged.
J. E. Hawley.
Jam. A. Hovey.
Sworn and subscribed before me
this 29th day of August 1849.
R. H. Hall J. P.
I certify that I am acquainted with the physicians and surgeons, who have signed the above certificate, and that they are reputable in their profession.
R. H. Hall.
Rev. J. E. Hawley, M. D. refers to Henry Boyer, Esq. War Dept.
Index for Shimeas Culver's papers.
1st His declaration.
2 d His original enlistment.
3 d His original furlough.
4 th Interrogatories.
5 th Evidence of Joshua Carpenter and Peter Biggs and W. B. Dodson a blacksmith.
6 th Certificate of the court.
7 th Affidavit of Peter Demarest, a soldier.
8 th Affidavit of Noah Beebe.
9 th Affidavit of Joshua Carpenter.
10 th Surgeon's certificate and affidavit.
11 th Application for wounds, and affidavit and schedule.
Documentary evidence conclusive. Original enlistment for during the war

and as sergeant.
Original furlough for sixty days, dated March 1783.
War ended April 1783.
See attorney general (Wirt's) letter dated 2 d February 1825 - in book No 118, 25 th Congress 2 d Session.
Pension laws in force Jan 19, 1838."

Rev. and 1812 Wars Section AWF/eel
June 19, 1929
Dr. J. Culver Hartzell Cedar Cottage, Madisonville Road Blue Ash, Ohio
Sir:
I advise you from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, R.2571 , it appears that Phineas Culver was born March 17, 1761, in Rosbury Township, Morris County, New Jersey.
He applied for pension August 31, 1842, while residing in Hector, Tompkins County, New York, and alleged that while residing in Morris County, New Jersey, he enlisted March 6, 1779, and served as a private in Captain Jacob De Witt's Company, General James Clinton's New York Regiment, and Captain John Spaulding's Company, Colonel Zebulon Butler's Connecticut Regiment, and served in all nine months, and in the spring of 1780, enlisted and served in Captain Jacob De Witt's Company, Colonel Van Cortlandt's New York Regiment, was wounded in the head, right side and hand in a struggle with an Indian, and served to the close of the war.

His claim was not allowed as proof of the alleged service was not furnished as required by the acts under which he applied for pension.
The soldier married at Newtown, New York, after the Revolution, no specific date given, nor is the name of his wife stated; after which he moved to Bath, Steuben County, New York, and was Deputy Sheriff of that county.
In 1842, his family is referred to as living in Illinois, no names given.
Respectfully,
EARL D. CHURCH Commissioner.

1911 Aug. 30 Hist. Soc Sarah E. Brown P.H.M. 1912 Apr. 9. Mrs. S.W. Brown info of cause of rejection 1929 June 19 Hist. Soc to Dr. J. Culver Hartzell
Acts of July 14, 1862, and March 3, 1873.
REJECTED
9571
P. O. Winchaps Culver
Service: _____
Enlisted: _____, 18
Discharged: _____, 18
Application filed: _____, 18
Alleges: _____ _____ _____
Re-enlisted: _____ _____
Attorney: _____
P. O. _____ _____
_____ Recognized. _____ Contract.
_____ Cert. of Dis. Searched for _____, 18

2154 Phinehas Culver?
N.Y.
copy in case
See letter to A Beebe, Oct 1. 1842 ✓
" " " " " 31. 1842 ✓
" " " J. A. Spencer Nov. 8. 1842 ✓
" " " Geo. Hale N.Y. Nov. 8. 1842 ✓
" " " Comptroller of County
" " " Hartford Nov 17. 1842
" " " Alvah Beebe Nov 17. 1842 ✓
" " " Rev. J. A. Maynard Dec 30. 42
" " " Hon J. A. Spencer June 15. 43
Act 15 May 1828.
No. 2154
Phinehas Culver,
Act 15 May 1828,
Rejected N.Y.
See letter to A Beebe Oct 1. 1842 }
do. to same Oct. 12. 1842 -
do. to same Oct. 31. 1842 -
" " J. A. Spencer W. S. S. attorney. Nov. 8. 1842 }
also to Geo. Hale N.Y. Nov. 8. 1842 ✓

J. P.
3-871.
RECORD DIVISION.
Department of the Interior, BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
Briefed by A.H.D. Aug. 30/11
Claim No. _____
Certificate No. _____
Claimant _____
Soldier Phinehas Culver
Service N.Y. Service Rev. War
Additional Service _____
No. _____ claim, State records _____, 191_____
No claim, combination records _____, 191_____
REMARKS:
No B.L. Claim found as above.

J. L. Edwards Esq. Comm d Pensions Washington D.C.

Ho. Rep. Decr. 27. 1842
J. L. Edwards Esq Court of Pensions
Sir
I send to you some papers relating to the application of Phinehas Collier for a pension—
Respectfully
Your Obt Servt
John Maynard

July 13 43
Honble —
John C. Culver D. — Pinehurst
July —
Edwards Com d of Pensions Washington D.C.

Ovid July 8 th 1843
Hon J. L. Edwards
Sir
When I was in your office 29 th May, I left a memorandum asking after the situation of Phineas Culver's application, I did not then, nor have I ever, till July 4 th heard that there was a charge against him, although I had known that there were two parties, his friends & his enemies, but I must say I had supposed that those opposed to him were in the wrong, but when I hear that he is charged with forgery, I beg leave to withdraw any sort of connection with his case, & do not wish my memorandum respecting him to be answered, let him first clear up his character - I have written this, as an apology for having meddled with his case, I was particularly requested to take note of it or I should not have done it, with this apology I beg I may be excused -
Respectfully your Ob st Servt Asa D. Joy

Offin M. d. Atty. Astoria N. Y. 5 June 1843.
Sir, I propose to present the case of Phineas Caleb mentioned in your of the 8 Nov. last to the Grand Jury at the next term of the Circuit Court to be held at Canaan Dauphin on the third Tuesday of the present month. 20 inst.
In your of the 8 Nov. will you say that I may rely upon your office to produce upon the trial the masonic documents & show the falsity of the Russian paper presented. They will be needed at that time for the purpose of procuring an indictment -
Very respectfully -
A. A. Spencer N. Y. Atty.
Mrs: A. A. Edwards Cen: Garrison

Secy of War Pension Office Washington

(copy)
Ithaca Aug. 31. 1842
Sir,
Therewith hand the application of Phineas Culver for a pension for services and wounds in the war of the revolution.
It is believed the evidence is complete, as much so as the lateness of period will permit, except by accident another soldier can be found who knew him in the service but his original papers herewith will prove his actual service for during the war, and as Sergeant.
Mr Culver is waiting at this village for a return from the War Department on expense to his friends - and is anxious to go to his family in Illinois and it is hoped the department will examine his papers and report, as soon as convenient as, if, any thing more be wanted, it will be supplied immediately if possible.
I will ask my friend Mr Tallmadge to call at the pension Office still he may not find it convenient so to do, and would be pleased to hear from the department early.
I am Sir. Yrs ob. Jt.
* or some other friend, (Signed) Alvah Beebe

Copied 7 th Nov. 1842 and examined with M. L. Allison F. S. Evans.

Go Sir.
I have rec d your letter wherein you mention, referring Mr Culvers claim for his revolutionary services to the District Attorney, to which I am willing to consent and with whom I shall have no difficulty in establishing his services .
It may be well to make a few remarks in explanation of Mr Culvers declaration, just now, and before his additional papers are forwarded.
He has made a loss of an Estate recently of $25,000, recently, by the breach of a brother free Mason, to whom he entrusted it. That person has failed within a year past, and left Mr C no resource, he had well hoped that he should be enabled to recover his fortunes until lately recently.
In explanation of his enlistment by Capt. De Witt, it may be remarked that altho' Capt. De Witt may have at one time belonged to the militia — he may also have recruited for Gen Clintons Reg t who married his sister, and was of course his Brother in law .
You do not state whether by comparison of the hand writing with that of Capt De W, that it appears counterfeit .
You state that Capt. De W. was not at York town in 1781, was he not at Compens or some other point in Va, it was so understood in the Reg, that he had gone there, and the fact cannot be disproved, except by some person with him, the whole period of that year, and who could swear that he was not there — it is not however any way material, whether he was there or not, it is only stated as a part of the history of the times in the "declaration".
I hope Sir you will be so kind as to furnish afford me the following explanations.
Whether Phineas Culver's name appears on

The muster rolls at any time in the 3 d & 3 d Reg. N. Y. State line, as in the Regt s of Van Cortlandt or Gen Clinton in 1780. 81. 2. 3 or. are the muster rolls of a regt s in which Capt s Spaulding was, as in which Lt Col Zephaniah Butler was? in 1779 or 80. He was exchanged from Capt DeWitt (as he supposed then and now) into the Company of Capt s Spaulding and marched to Wilkesbarre in Pa in 1779 where Butler was. As we are both seeking for the truth, I humbly hope you will readily aid in arriving at it. Oliver is now absent obtaining evidence of his services , and will forward them soon.
I will add that it is understood here, and elsewhere, that no villanies can be perfected at the Pension Office except thro' a Member of Congress who has the ability and impudence to threaten the Officer, when delay is asked, that he shall be reported for such delay and negligence to the higher powers. I know nothing of all this, but I do know that in making selections for Congress, great regard is paid to select such as will be diligent in attending to their claims of poor pensioners who have been delayed their rights some five or six years or more after applying.
There is a case in this Co and who has applied to me - for whom I wish the information respecting his claim. Benona Benham a private, in Col Bogardus's Regt s at the Narrows N. Y. last war, and in the Company of Capt s Hamilton, was wounded, and made his application as he says, 6, years ago, thro' one Bailey, who has moved off West. Benham supposes his papers are in the P. Office, on file, if so he desires to know what is wanting, if they are not there, then he will apply again, please have the rolls of that Regt s examined, and advise me what is requisite , he has not been out of his chair for many years, as can he stand up, his knee is

broken and his wrist.
I am Sir
Your obed serv t
Signed Abiah Beebe
Ithaca Oct 14 th 1842.
P.S. Culver is sometimes spelled in different ways, Benham was perhaps in other Companies perhaps in that Regt.

Didst, I understand an application is pending in behalf of Phineas Culver, or Colver for a Pension. Mr. Colver, alias Culver, widow or lately widowed at Fairport this Co. and widows there now, or in Astoria, Tompkins Co., N.Y. I add to say, that I am entirely informed, that Mr. Culver is too young to have been in the Revolution, and that it is an imposition, Salubria, Chemung Co., N.Y. Feb'y 19, 1843.
Richd D. E. Linn P.M.

Dear Sir
Yrs of 31 Ult. is at hand - In reply - it has been suggested to me by an aged person from Pennsylvania that there was a Capt. Jacob D. Witt from that State - It may be so. and it may be his name is on the St. L. survey rolls or some other State, if so, I would be pleased to have the information from you - as I have no other source of information
The name of Culin is sometimes spelled Collin he is of a Scotch family -
Will you please look at the Conn. rolls for his name in 1779 with Capt Spaulding!
I am Sir
Very Respectfully Yours
A. Bellis Ithaca Nov 9. 1842
Hon. J. L. Edwards Com d Provisions Washington

State of New York, Docter Reuben Barbour of the Chemung County, B-town of Catlin in said County Being Duly sworn Before Me Patrick Quinn a justice of the Peace of said County Deposeth and says that he knew capt Jacob Deyo and that he knew him to enlist Soldiers at New York town in New Jersey and that Deyo went after that and for the company of the said capt Deyo and knew them to be in actual service has met them at Mamacotun, Mumbouton & Marburg and other places during the Revolution War - and Deyo was a prisoner -
Sworn & Subscribed Before - Reuben Barbour Me November 26th 1842 Patrick Quinn justice of the Peace of Chemung County
I certify that Reuben Barbour the above Deposition is known to me and that he is a Reputable Witness P Quinn J P -

State of New York Chautauqua County Clerk's office
for I S. L. Root Clerk of said County do hereby certify that Patrick Quinn before whom the within Affidavit was made as at the time of taking such affidavit a justice of the Peace in and for said County,swelling in said County Commissioned and sworn and duly authorized to take the same.
I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Justice and verily believe that the signature to the said affidavit is genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscri- -ibed my Name and affixed the seal of the said County at Chautauqua this 18 th day of Decem- -ber A D 1842
S. L. Root Clerk

State of New York Chemung County ss.
Nancy Johnson formerly Nancy Mills of the town of Cayuta and County aforesaid being duly sworn before me Philip Thomas a Justice of the Peace in and for said County of Chemung, deposeth and saith that she knew Phinehas Culver when he was a boy - that she resided in the same town and neighbourhood, about two miles from Hackettstown in the County of Morris and State of New Jersey that she now recollects the said Phinehas Culver and that she remembers his leaving his home in the year 1779 or 1780, and as she understood at the time by the friends and neighbours where she resided that said Culver had joined the Army & that said Culver had at several times visited home in the neighbourhood where she resided & on such visits he was always dressed in Soldier clothes and it was the subject of conversation that said Culver did belong to the Army And this deponent believes from her recollections of those times and the circum- stances that he did belong to the Army. that she never heard it disputed & all the neighbours at that time so believed that this deponent removed from New Jersey to Vioga Point in the State of Pennsylvania & did not see said Culver from about the year 1791, until some time after; when said Culver came to her father's house; & remained there for some time; that she knew said Culver from that time, & now knows him, to be the same person, who she knew when he lived in New Jersey, & who then was reputed to belong to the Army; and was called Sergeant Phinehas by his friends when he came home in the years 1781 1782 & 1783, that Capt DeWitt enlisted soldiers at Hackettstown; and that deponent saw him there at a store in that village; and that she understood then that he was enlisting soldiers for the Army.
Nancy Johnson Sworn & subscribed this 21 day of November 1842 before me a Justice of the Peace in & for said County. Philip Thomas
Philip Thomas
I certify that deponent is known to me and that she is a reputable witness. Philip Thomas

State of New York Chemung County Clerks Office
to H. S. L. Hood Clerk of said County do hereby certify that Philip Thomas Esq. before whom the within affidavit was made was at the time of taking such affidavit a justice of the Peace in and for said County dwelling in said County Commissioned and sworn and duly authorized to take the same - I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said justice and verily believe that the signature to the said affidavit is genuine.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the seal of the said County at Elmira this 18 th day of December A.D. 1842
H. S. L. Hood Clerk

State of New York Ontario County ss.
On this 24 th day of November in the Year 1842 personally appeared before me James G. Austin a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, major Oliver Humphrey who first being duly sworn by me deposes and says that he was acquainted with Captain Jacob DeWitt in the 3 rd Reg t New York State line - and that said Capt. Jacob DeWitt did belong to that Regiment or what was called Genl. Clintons Regiment and did enlist men for during the War, to the personal knowledge of the Deponent while acting as Captain in said Regiment, during the Revolution, and about the year 1780. He was at the house of Capt. Jacob DeWitt in Pemmack in the County of Orange now called , that said Capt. Jacob DeWitt together with Deponent, picketed the house of the said DeWitt against the Indians, who were in that neighbourhood, that the said Capt. Jacob DeWitt, was a Capt. during the War, but is unable to detail any other service than above mentioned - Deponent knows him well, Deponent is a pensioner of the U.S. & is of the age of eighty four Years.
Sworn and subscribed this 24 th day of Nov r AD 1842 before me James G. Austin J. P.
Oliver Humphrey
I certify that Oliver Humphrey is well known to me and that he is a reputable & unimpeachable witness.
James G. Austin J. P.

State of New York Ontario County ss. On this 25 th day of November 1842 personally appeared before me James G. Austin a Justice of the Peace in and for said County of Ontario Charles Burnett, who first being duly sworn before me deposes and says, that he was well and personally acquainted with Capt Jacob DeWitt, and is knowing to the fact that Capt Jacob DeWitt did belong to the 3 d Regiment of the New York State line or what was called General Clinton Regiment and that Captain Jacob DeWitt did enlist men for during the War and that deponent has known him so to enlist me during the Revolution and about the year 1780. & all that then Capt Jacob DeWitt commanded a company in said Regiment & was stationed on the Delaware River & guarded the portage from the depredations of the Indians, at a near Peenpack, the said Capt Jacob DeWitt was a brother in law of Genl James Clinton, deponent is now three years of age & was well acquainted with said Capt Jacob DeWitt
Subscribed & sworn before me this 25 th day of November 1842 James G. Austin J.P. Merle Burno J.P.
I certify that Charles Burnett the above deponent is well known to me and is a veritable & unimpeachable witness & his statement is entitled to full credit. James G. Austin J.P.
State of New York Ontario County ss. I Thomas Hall Clerk of said County do hereby certify that James G. Austin Esquire before whom the above affidavit was subscribed and sworn, was at the time the same purports to have been subscribed & sworn a Justice of the Peace in and for said County duly Elected and qualified and

authorized to act as such And further that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of such Justice and verily believe his signature subscribed to the within Certificate to be Genuine
Given under my hand and seal of said County at Canandaigua this 28 th day of December A.D. 1842 Thomas Hall Clerk

State of New York
Chemung County ss. } On this 19 day of August October 1842 personally appeared before me Elijah Dirona Justice of the peace residing in the town of Cayuga and County of Chemung. John Hills of said County to me personally known who first being duly sworn by me doth depose and say that he knew Phineas Culver whose application for a pension is hereto annexed when a boy and that said Phineas Culver and this deponent were boys together, that the mother of said Phineas and said Phineas made their home at his the deponent's father's house about two miles from Hackettstown in the County of Morris and State of New Jersey, and that the said Phineas Culver had been bound out as an apprentice to one Timothy Wires, a farmer and weaver and that said Wires did compel the said Phineas to labor on the sabbath, that said Phineas ran away from said Wires and enlisted as a soldier into the company of Capt n DeWitt of the United States Army who was then at Hackettstown that while said Phineas belonged to said Company he would sometimes return home to this deponent's father's house and remain all night, when he so came home he wore his soldier's clothes, and after said Culver had been in the Army some time and about the year 1780. this deponent understood from the deponent's mother's family that said Culver was a Sergeant in Capt n DeWitt's company and Col l Van Cortlandt's regiment. Deponent further says that he went to Hackettstown sometimes, and saw said Culver with the other soldiers of Capt n DeWitt's company some of whom deponent was acquainted with, and that he understood from them that said Culver belonged to their company, that said Culver at one time after he had been absent as deponent understood to Mamacating Hollow and had been back returned home again after being wounded and as deponent at that time understood and believes on a furlough and while so at home or about there and before he was well from his wounds the Army was disbanded - the deponent further says that he understood and believes that the said Culver served out his full term of enlistment (including the furlough) which was for during the war - that after the Army was disbanded the said

Culver remained at his fathers house some time - that some years thereafter this deponent and his family removed to Tioga Point in the State of Pennsylvania, and the next time deponent met the said Culver was at Newtown (now Elmira) in the State of New York at the Indian Treaty (about the year 1791.) This deponent and said Culver then conversed about the War and the service of said Culver during the War, that said Culver at that time showed his deponent his  certificate of enlistment by Capt n De Witt, for during the War as Sergeant which was signed by the said Cap n De Witt.
Deponent further says that until a few years past the said Culver has been in good circumstances and was at one time Deputy Sheriff of the County of Steuben that within a few years he has become as deponent believes very much reduced by the loss of his property, and is now in actual need, deponent further says that said Culver was at the time he went into the army fifteen or sixteen years of age, that from his acquaintance with said Culver from the time of his first going into the Army until the Army was disbanded it was frequently a subject of conversation in the deponents fathers family, that Culver was a Sergeant in Capt n DeWitts Company and this deponent fully believes that he was.
Subscribed and sworn
This 19 day of October 1842
before me Elijah Dimon J.P.
his John X Hill mark
I certify that the deponent is known to me and that he is a reputable witness
October the 19 1842
Elijah Dimon J.P.

Chemung County Clerks Office
I S. S. Root Clerk of said County do hereby certify that Elijah Dimon Esq. before whom the foregoing Affidavit was taken, was at the date thereof a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, duly qualified to act as such: and further that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Justice and verily believe his signature above written to be genuine.
In Testimony Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my official Seal at Elmira this 3 rd day of November 1842
S. S. Root Clerk

State of New York
Simpkins Co. ss. Jacob Wise of the Town of Danby in said County being duly sworn, deposes and says, that in or about the year 1787 he worked at Brink- -ers Mills, Hamilton Township, and County of Northampton, and State of Pennsylvania - That Phinehas Culver came there at that time, to see his Brother Samuel, who also worked at the said Mills - deponent un- -derstands and believes at that time, that the said Phinehas had been serving in the Revolutionary War - and that he had served at Wilkesbarre in Penn a under Col. Jonathan Butler - and that we three, then conversed of the occurrences that had taken place, just previous to the said Phinehas having joined the Army at Wilkesbarre - to wit - that the Army had surrounded the Indians, and drove them off a ledge of the Mountain, into the River, drowning, killing, wounding, and taking prisoners many of them -
Deponent further says, that he has not seen the said Culver, since that time, until within a few days past, when the said Phinehas called on deponent to get evidence of his service in the Revolutionary War.
Deponent further says that this deponent is about 77 years of age.
Subscribed and sworn this 27 th day
of Sept. 1847. Jacob M. Drake J.P.
Toolneige
I certify that above deponent is known to me and is a respectable witness. Jacob M. Drake J.P.

State of New York Tompkins County ss. Amos Manning being duly sworn before me Caleb B. Drake one of the Justices of the peace in and for the said County of Tompkins - deposes and says, that he now resides in the Town of Woodhull, in the County of Steubenville - that he lived in the farm belonging to Phineas Culver, in the Town of Hector, and County of Tompkins, under a lease from said Culver, for four years, from the year 1825. The farm was called the "Peach Orchard farm," of about four hundred and twenty acres - had good buildings on it, and said to be the best farm in said County of Tompkins. That one John D. Mott bid it off on a sale, upon a small mortgage, of two or three thousand dollars, and took all the wheat, about one hundred acres of wheat, and all the cattle - then on farm horses - and the sheep and all the stock - and it was said soon after, and ever since, and is public conversant generally, all about the County, that D. Mott cheated Culver out of his farm, and all his stock property &c.
Deponent further says that he then moved into Steubenville County - and kept a Tavern, about fifty miles distant, and about four years ago said Culver came to his house to enquire after a soldier of the Revolution, to identify himself as a soldier of the New York line of troops. I directed him away to me,

and he went away toward the Pennsylv- ania line to find such soldiers.
Deponent advises since Colon lost his property by said Dr Mott - and that it was a valuable Estate, and has now become so situated, as to compel him to call on his Country for his subsistence
Subscribed & sworn before me on this 13 th day of October 1842.
Amos Manning
Deab B Dr Mott J.P.
I testify that I am acquainted with the above named Amos Manning, & that he is a credible witness & not tried to give false oath on 13 th 1842.
Deab B Dr Mott J.P.

The claim was rej. on the ground that he fur. no proof of alleged service which was discredited by the records of this Bureau. do not use this as a rejection again for all of the records of service are in War Dept. Aw.

Pension Office, Oct. 1, 1842.
Sir:
over The claim of Phinehas Culver has been examined & his papers filed under the Act of 15 May, 1828- This claim now asserted for the first time for an alleged service of the highest merit in the Revy. War is discredited by the very delay- It cannot be admitted that a poor man "having no property or place of residence for the last 16 years but quartered about among his friends" & who had such claims to pension & bounty land as his alleged service entitled him to, would forbear to present them- Discredited as his claim is by the circumstances under which it is presented, it is still more so by the records of this Dept. & by his own exhibits- All the enlistments for the war appear upon the rolls- upon the final settlements- upon the lists returned as entitled to bounty land- and of those who received the "gratuity" His name is not found on either- & if he had served for the war in the Continental Army it would necessarily have been borne on all--
In support of this allegation he exhibits a certificate of enlistment and a short furlough dated a few weeks before the discharge of the " wars men " these papers bear on their face palpable & obvious evidences of fraudulent fabrication - The first one is signed by "Jacob Dewitt Capt." & the other Jacob- obliterated. There were no enlistments for the War in N. Y. or N. J. except in their respective lines of the Continental army and Capt. Jacob De Witt belonged to the militia of N. Y.- This shews the falshood of the substance of the certificate viz. that he Capt. Jacob Dewitt had enlisted claimant for the war -
The statement of the service is inconsistent with that of the wars men and Capt. Jacob Dewitt was not at Yorktown in 1781.
His claim is rejected.
A. Beebe Esq. Ithaca, N. Y.
Letter of June 15. 1842 refers to this as a fraudulent claim

(Copy)
Ithaca Oct. 6. 1842
J. S. Edwards Esq. Dr. Sir,
I rec d your letter of 13 inst In reply the original papers of Culvers are genuine papers and will be substan- tiated as Cap. DeWitts doing the duty the papers purport.
Mr. Culver feels sore at the re- sult of his trial for a pension after trying so long to get along without calling on his country for his just due.
He has been in hopes until recently of obtaining his property in the hands of John DeMott (a farm of 420 acres in this Co), but DeMott having failed, induced him to apply. his farm was worth $25000 & he will explain all as to the delay soon, and as to his service &c.
I am Sir Yr fr &c Signed, A. Beebe.
Will you please return me the papers to effect his evidence. , Signed, D.
He proves his service by DeMornist & wounds rec d , will that be granted?

(Copy)
Ithaca, Sept. 14. 1840.
The hon. the Secy at War will my amct oblige his friend by allowing personal attention to be drawn to the pension papers in the Pension office of Shimekas Culver.
I am fully persuaded the application is meritorious and it is so believed to be here.
His service will appear to be four years and seven months to the end of his second furlough, one of which is forwarded, dated March 1783. This may, or his engagement ended in Apr l 1783 as will appear by the atty Genl's letter (Writs) on the subject.
I am sure that a service of this kind, will receive any early response from the department - and if any thing be lacking, it will be supplied as far as this late period will admit of.
I am informed Mr. Culver is personally known to Mr. Maynard - would his letter be of service? or further proof of his enlistment and service?
I am this urgent thro mere charity to an old soldier, who is in want of winter clothing.
I am Sir
(Signed)
Yrs truly A. Buel.

We hereby certify that the foregoing papers have been lawfully compared with the originals and are found correct
Theo. T. Lillie
Wm H Allison
Mr. G. M. Miller
Pension Office (November 7 1828)
2154 Richard Bulver NY act 15 May 1828.

(Copy.)
Ithaca, Sept. 6. 1842.
J. L. Edwards, Esquire.
Sir,
I mailed to the Hon. the Secy. at War, a few days past, the application of Phinehas Culver, for pension, as a Revolutionary soldier.
I write to call your early attention to their perusal, and decision. Should any thing of consequence be wanting, please return them to me, with instructions, as perhaps he will have no so favorable time to supply the deficiencies, if any exist. and his health is quite indifferent at present, and is suffering for the want of the necessaries of life.
I shall feel very much obliged by hearing from your department, as early as practicable.
And am Sir,
Very Respectfully
Yr ob. st.
Signed Alvah Beebe.

Knox heads N. J.
August 26-1911
To the Bureau of Pensions
Gentlemen
Can you give me any information of a man - by name Phinehas below - whose family legend has it that he served in the Revolutionary Army and that he obtained a grant of land either in what - is now known as Schuyler or Chemung Co's

If he served in that Army can you not find out for me. Perhaps a pension was granted him. and you may find a record of some kind of information regarding any of the below will be appreciated and especially if Phoebe has below. I think at that time the name was spelled with two L's. below
Truly to hear from you and thanking you for your kindness and

Front
I remain
Sincerely Yours
(Mrs.) Sarah E. Brown
Horse heads
N. Y.

Horse heads H. G.
April 2. 1912
Burns of Puncious
Washington D. C.
Gentlemen
Will you kindly tell me if Samuel Wightman was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. they tell me he was. If he was will you please send me his war record. You sent the record of Phineas Bedloe . but you say his claim was not allowed on the ground that he furnished no proof of his services. does that mean that he was not in the war at all I want to join the Daughters of the American Revolution. and thought I preferred Phineas Bedloe for my ancestor. but I may have to find another one Will you please send me the history

John Bruce who served under Capt - Wm Bond 4 th Battalion 1 st Delaware Regiment - in New Jersey line
I will be very grateful for this information and promise not to trouble you again
Yours Sincerely Sent to Stephen Brown % Brown's Pharmacy Newark N. J.

TELEPHONE SYCAMORE 7473 (CINCINNATI DIRECTORY)
DR. J. CULVER HARTZELL CEDAR COTTAGE MADISONVILLE ROAD BLUE ASH, OHIO June 15, 1929
Commissioner Earl D. Church, Bureau of Pensions, Washington, D. C.
Sir-
Replying to your communication of the 12th inst.
In re. Phineas Culver.
Phineas Culver (Colver) was born March 17, 1764, at Horseheads, N.Y. Date of death not given. Married Phoebe Breese, 1794. She was born Feb. 18, 1773, and died Mar. 17, 1854. Phineas Culver (Colver) was born on "Peach Orchard Plantation" which belonged to his father, John Colver, from whom Phineas inherited it. The father, John Colver, was born at Schooley's Mount, N.J., and moved to Horseheads, N.Y. It may be that Phineas was born at Schooley's Mount; but the family records give Horseheads.
Awaiting with interest your reply, I am,
Respectfully,
J. Culver Hartzell, M.D.
H/J

Information as contained in his (or his widow's) application for pen- on file in the Bureau Philoas Culber 571
   DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. LENGTH OF SERVICE. RANK. OFFICERS UNDER CONSIDERATION. STATE.   CAPTAIN. COLONEL.     March 6 1779 9 mos Pvt. Jacob D. Hill James Clinton N.Y.   John Spaulding Zebulon Butler Conn.   Spring 1780 End of war Sgt Jacob D. Hill Van Courtlandt N.Y.   Was wounded in head, and right side hand while struggling with an Indian.  The claim was rejected on the ground that he furnished no proof of alleged service (which was discredited by the records of the Regt)   
arranged by don't send again and this way seeing letter
Battles engaged in, Residence of soldier at enlistment, Morris Co. N.J. Date of application for pension, Aug. 31, 1842 Residence at date of application, Hector Tompkins Co. N.Y. Age at date of application, b. in Morris Co. Roxbury Twp N.J. Mar. 17, 1761
Remarks: He was married at Newtown name of wife not stated I moved to Ballston Newton Co. N.Y. Dep. Scler He is now in Ill. is referred to 1842 no ref to civil
Very respectfully, Brother Samuel lived in Northampton Co. Penn. in 1787
Commissioner.

aw
Rev. War.
April 9, 1912.
Mrs. Sarah W. Brown, c/o Brown's Pharmacy, Horseheads, N. Y.
Madam:
In response to your letter dated the 2" and received the 3" instant, relative to the Revolutionary War pension claim of Phineas Culver, Rej. File NO. 2,571, this Bureau would be unable to advise you as to whether Phineas Culver was or "was not in the War at all". His claim stands rejected because proof of his alleged service was not furnished as required by the Acts of Congress under which he applied for pension.
The Revolutionary War pension records fail to afford any information in regard to Samuel Wightman and John Bruce, described by you.
Very respectfully,
Commissioner.