Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 26,787, John Davis, R I.

SERVICE
R.I.
NUMBER
Davis, John Theody
W. 26. 787 B.L.Wt. 3523-160-55
CONTENTS

2.7941 Connecticut John Davis dec
of in the State of who was a 2nd Lt in the St. Light commanded by Captain L Major of the commanded by in the line for Revolution
Inscribed on the Roll of Hartford at the rate of 265 Dollars Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831. Ending 1. Mar 1846
Certificate of Pension issued the 23 day of July 1833 and Senklo AS Johnson Arrears to the 4th of Next
Semi-annual allowance ending Inc. from 1800
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by P. M. Kao Clerk, Book 62 Vol. 3 Page 9

Date of her death not on A. B.

State of Connecticut } Windham County } ss Town of Woodstock }
on this 21 st Day August 1832 Personally appeared in open court Before the Hon John Peck Esq Judge of Probate for Woodstock. District now sitting John Davis a Resident of Woodstock in the county of Windham and State of Connecticut aged Seventy Six years who first being Duly sworn according to Law doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress passed June 7 th 1832 -
I intend the service of the United States under the following named officers and served as herein stated - In May 1775 I enlisted for Eight months under Capt Aaron Welles. I then lived at Little Compton Rhode Island Belonged to Col Church Regiment and marched to Boston where I served the Eight months as Quarter Master Sergeant to said Regiment Belonged to Nathaniel Green Brigade - after the Eight months had expired I was discharged and returned home - In 1776 I served
as Lieutenant for three months in Capt Wiles Company Belonged to Col Cook Regt - General Cornwall Brigade - On the 14 th Day of September 1776 I Received a Lieutenant commission in the company commanded by Capt George Simmons Belonged to Col Cook Regiment where I served as Lieutenant in said company two years in the army of the Revolution - was stationed at Little Compton Rhode Island

on the Twenty first Day of June 1779 I Received a Capt Commission and served as Capt. of what was called a mounted Company at Belle Compton Rhode Island during the remainder of the war - I was on Newport in the Battle under General Sullivan - and in that Engagement I acted as adjutant I was in Frequent skirmishes with the British During the several campaigns on the shores of Rhode Island was born in 1756 in Belle Compton Rhode Island a Record of my age is at Belle Compton P.S. - I lived at Belle Compton when called into the service. I now live in Woodstock, Conn. I enlisted and volunteered General Green, Cornell and Sullivan and Spencer. no discharge written I hereby relinquish every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the Present and declare that my name is not on the Pension Roll of the agency of any State -
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid
John Davis
"We H. M. Cornell a Clergyman residing in the town of Woodstock and John Fox Residing in the same town hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Major John Davis who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration. That we believe him to be seventy six years of age, that he is respected and believed in the neighbourhood 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
H. M. Cornell { Clergyman of Woodstock
John Fox

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 W. M. Cornell who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman resident in the town of Woodstock and that John Fox who has also signed the same is a resident of Woodstock and is a credible person and that their statement is entitled to credit -
And the court further certifies that in their opinion the statement of the applicant is true -
I George Bower clerk of the court of Probate for Woodstock District do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said court in the matter of the application of John Davis for a pension
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this 21 st Day of August 1832
George Bower Clerk of Probate for the District of Woodstock

1.007
Connecticut Theodly Davis widow of John Davis who served in the Revolutionary
war, as a Dr. Mr. Sgt. St. Capt. & Major
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 265 Dollars
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
3 Feb. 1853
Certificate of Pension issued the 23rd day of July 1853 and sent to
H. T. Johnson Present
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 1845 Page 58 Vol. 24
2 February 1853

Let. to H Gaylor
Sept 2 L 53
Rev. J. Woodruff Apr 1854
" " Woodruff. May 8 th 64

Declaration
In order to obtain the benefit of the 2 d Section of the Act of Congress of the 3 d Feb. 1853
State of Connecticut } Probate District of Ashford Windham County }
On this twenty third day of April in the year One Thousand eight hundred and fifty three, personally appeared before the Court of Probate for the District of Ashford, Theoda Davis a resident of Ashford in the County and State aforesaid aged eighty one years, who first being duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provisions made by the Act of Congress, passed on the 3 d day of February, 1853, "granting Pensions to widows of Persons, who served during the Revolutionary War" That she is the Widow of John Davis, who was a Sergeant, Lieutenant and Captain in the War of the Revolution, and drew a Pension under the Act of 7 th June 1832, of one hundred dollars per annum That his Pension certificate was given at the War Office of the United States on the 15 th day of September 1834 by Lewis Cass, Secretary of War, and made payable at the Connecticut Agency for paying Pensions in the City of Hartford, That her said husband lived at the time he entered the service of the United States in the town of Little Compton in the State of Rhode Island, that according to the best of her knowledge and belief, her said husband performed the following service 1 st Eight months as Quarter Master Sergeant in 1775 in a Regiment of which Thomas Church of Little Compton was Colonel, William Miller of Bristol was Lieut.

Colonel, and Sherburne of Newport was Major, that during the battle of Bunker Hill he was in Roxbury Mass. encamped on Jamaica Plains
2 d Thru months as Lieutenant from the 14 th September 1776, in Captain Henry Wilds Company in a Regiment raised for three months, for the defence of the Island of Rhode Island commanded by Colonel John Cook
3 d As Lieutenant from the 10 th December 1776 to June 21 st 1779, two years six months and eleven days in the 2 d Company of Militia of Little Compton of which Company, George Simmons was Captain, her said husband was Lieutenant and Stephen Pierce was Ensign said company being drafted in two divisions and guard the shores or coasts of Rhode Island each division serving every other thirty days or in some cases being relieved every other fifteen days making one year, three months and five days actual service in said company as Lieutenant under the command of Colonel Cook in the first place, and afterwards of Colonel Church
4 th Commissioned as Captain June 21 st 1779 in the same Company and serving as such in like manner every other month untill April 1780 under Colonel Church as before guarding the coasts making four months and twenty days actual service as Captain claiming also four months service as a Substitute for Capt. George Simmons, her said husband serving for said Simmons in addition to his own regular tours of duty, (said Simmons being his Step Father

5 th That he served as Major one month in a battallion raised from the Senior and Junior classes of the Militia for one month from the 8 th day of June 1781 on the Island of Rhode Island For proof to support the foregoing services, reference is had, to the evidence filed in the application of her said husband, furnished by himself, in his life time, and the further evidence adduced by this Declarant in her application for an increase of her the Pension of her late husband during the year 1852 and on file in the Pension Office She further declares, that she was married to the said John Davis at Brooklyn in the State of Connecticut, on the thirteenth day of November in the year eighteen hundred and three by the Rev. Josiah Whitney D.D. a clergyman of said Brooklyn That her said husband died at Ashford in said State of Connecticut on the first day of May in the year (1846) eighteen hundred forty six , that she was not married to him prior to the second day of January eighteen hundred , but at the time above stated. She further declares that she is now the widow of the said John Davis
Theody Davis
Sworn and subscribed this 23 d day of April A.D. 1853
Before me David D. Richmond Judge of the Court of Probate for Ashford District
I Benjamin C. Simmons Clerk of the Court of Probate for the District of Ashford do certify that David D. Richmond is the Judge of said Court and the foregoing signature.

Subscribing to the his is his genuine signature.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed the seal of said Court and subscribed my name this 25 th day of April in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred & fifty three.
Attest Benjamin C. Simmons Clerk of said Court of Probate.
April 1853

In a long list of Marriages solemnised by Rev. Dr. Josiah Whitney, Pastor of the Congregational Church of Brooklyn Ct., & by him recorded together in the book of the records of said church, I find the following entry.
"In the year, Eighteen hundred & three, November thirteenth, Major John Davis to Theda Scarborough ."
I certify that the above extract is a true copy of the record, with the exception of the date which is expressed on the record in fair legible figures, as follows; "1803, Nov. 13 th Major John Davis to Theda Scarborough." Geo. J. Tillotson, Pastor of the aforesaid church.
I, Geo. J. Tillotson, above named, depose & say, that I hold the office of Pastor of the Congregational Church in the town of Brooklyn in the county of Windham in the state aforesaid, & that the above is a true extract from the records of said church, with the exception above named as certified by me. Geo. J. Tillotson, Pastor.
Sworn to and subscribed on this twenty third day of March in the year 1853 before me
Horace Gaylord Notary Public

D 3, 233, Act March, 3/55, Theod. Recd " 28 "
Eliz Davis, widow of John Davis, Br. M t Ser t Lieut. Capt. & Major,
Rev Pensioner, Act Feb 3/1853,
Capt: & Lieut. in R. Island Mil:
ad: 160 Ac, Aug: 4 th 1855. B. G. T. W.
35 23 ip Aug 8/55
Horace Gaylord, Ashford, Ct. New
leonn Feb 53- no 1007
April 9/56 - General returned to Genl. H. S. E. Genl. Land Office. R.S.E.
Vol. D. 2.

23, 433,
COPY OF STATE OF COUNCIL

STATE OF CONNECTICUT, } ss. COUNTY OF Windham }
On this twenty first day of March A. D. one thousand eight hundred and fifty five personally appeared before me, a Notary Public, within and for the County and State aforesaid, Theody Davis aged eighty three years, a resident of Ashford in the State of Connecticut, who being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the widow of John Davis deceased, who was a W.M. Lieut. in the Company commanded by  Lieut. Capt. and Major in the regiment of Revolutionary  War  in the war with Great Britain, declared by the United States on the 18th day of June 1812, that her said husband was a Pensioner of the United States under the act of June 1832 at the rate of one hundred dollars per Annum on, or about the day of  A. D.  for the term of and that she is a pensioner at the rate of two hundred and sixty five dollars per annum under the act of Feb. 3 rd 1853  as will appear by the master rolls  of said
She further states that she was married to the said John Davis in Brooklyn Ct. on the thirteenth day of November A. D. 1803 by one Josiah Whitney D.D. a clergyman and that her name before her said marriage was Theody Scarborough that her said husband died at Ashford Ct. on the first day of May A. D. 1846 and that she is now a widow.
She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the bounty land to which she may be entitled under the act approved March 3d, 1855. She also declares that she has not received a warrant for bounty land under this or any other act of Congress, nor made any other application therefor. for proof of service, husband's death and marriage reference may be had to evidence on file with her claim for a pension under the Act of Feb. 3 rd 1853 and desires that the warrant when issued may be sent to Horace Gaylord of Ashford Ct.
Theody Davis
We, Samuel D. Gaylord and Horace A. Gaylord residents of Ashford in the State of Connecticut, upon our oaths declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Theody Davis in our presence, and that we believe, from the appearance and statements of the applicant, that she is the identical person she represents herself to be.
Samuel D. Gaylord Horace A. Gaylord
The foregoing declaration and affidavit were sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year above written; and I certify that I know the affiants to be credible persons, that the claimant is the person she represents herself to be, and that I have no interest in this claim.
Horace Gaylord Notary Public. N.B. See my commission on file with the Commissioner of Pensions Dated March 25 th 1854 Expires March 25 th 1856

June 29, 1936.
Mrs. C. A. Stein 245 East Princess Street York, Pennsylvania.
BA-J/ILL John Davis W. 26787
Dear Madam:
The data given herein regarding John Davis were found in the papers on file in pension claim, W. 26787, based upon his service in the Revolutionary War.
John Davis was born in the year 1756, in Little Compton, Rhode Island; the exact day of his birth and the names of his parents were not shown.
While a resident of Little Compton, Rhode Island, he enlisted sometime in May 1775, and served eight months as quarter master sergeant in Captain Aaron Wilbur's company, Colonel Thomas Church's Rhode Island regiment, stationed most of the time near Boston. He was appointed in May or June 1776, Lieutenant of Captain Henry Wilds' company, Colonel Cooke's Rhode Island regiment and served three months; he was commissioned September 14, 1776, 1 st Lieutenant, 5 th company of Rhode Island militia, commanded by Captain George Simmons (step-father of said John Davis) and served one year, served also at the time of the battle of Rhode Island; he was commissioned June 21, 1779, Captain of the 2 nd company of Little Compton Rhode Island militia and served five months under Colonels Church and Cooke. In 1781, he was appointed Major of the 2 nd Regiment of Newport Rhode Island militia and served one month. During these services John Davis was in many skirmishes.
He was allowed pension on his application executed August 21, 1832, at which time he resided in Woodstock, Windham County, Connecticut; he had moved there from Rhode Island. He was called then Major John Davis. In 1836, he resided in Ashford, Windham County, Connecticut,

where he died May 1, 1846.
John Davis married and his wife lived, during the time the British were in possession of Rhode Island, close to the shore where he was on duty; the name of this wife, date of this marriage and date of her death were not shown. He married November 13, 1803 in Brooklyn, Connecticut, Theda Scarborough; said marriage was performed by the Congregational Minister of Brooklyn, Connecticut.
Theody Davis (as she signed her name), the officer's widow, was allowed pension on her application executed April 23, 1853, at which time she resided in Ashford, Connecticut; she was then aged eighty-one years. The date and place of her birth and the names of her parents were not shown. She was living in Ashford in 1861.
In 1836, Cynthia Fowler, sister of Major John Davis, was aged seventy-four years and resided in Hamilton, Madison County, New York. She stated that she resided in Little Compton, Rhode Island, when her brother served during the Revolutionary War, that frequently during that time, she stayed with her brother's wife, and that one night they arose, gathered up clothing and drove the cattle some distance because of the enemy. She did not state the name of her husband, nor give the date of her marriage.
No reference was made to children of Major John Davis.
Very truly yours,
A. D. HILLER, Executive Assistant to the Administrator.

Ray
WIDOW, &c.
Oct-1-19 Ina D. Gaylon
File No. 26787
1921 Mar. 24 Hist. to Mrs. Walter G. Bowles - Ex.
Theody Davis Child of John Davis Maj. Rev. War.
1926, June 29 Hist. to Mrs. C. A. Stearns D. L. L.
Act: 3 Feb. '33
Index:—Vol. A , Page 169
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Connecticut 27.921
John Davis of Woodstock in the State of Conn. who was a Sergt. & Capt. for the commanded by Captain of the Regt. commanded by Col. Church in the R. I. line for 8 mo. Sergt. 3 " Link 1 " Capt.
Inscribed on the Roll of Conn. at the rate of 100 Dollars — Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1834.
Certificate of Pension issued the 15 th day of Sept. 34 and sub. John Foulton 2- North Woodstock — Ch
Arrears to the 4th of Sept. 34 — 350 Semi-ant. allowance ending Mar. 35 — 70 $ 400
{ Revolutionary Claim, { Act June 7, 1832. $
Recorded by Abd. Rice Clerk, Book E 2 Vol. 3 Page 9-
✓

see letter to J. M. Dyer, Sept. 21. 1836—
in letter to Hon. M. W.
Ashe, Feb 22, 1837.
See J. G. Bennett Sept. 13/52.

Responded Connecticut
John Davis let 1 Fowle 2 o - 30 th Aug 18 m
8 m Berg 2 3 m Pt 1 m Capt - $100
John Fowle 2 o North Woodstock

✓ 3523
}
Red Am

Connecticut Revol.
John Davis ans. - Sept. 16 1834 Suspended
letter to
John Fowler 2 d
18 Oct r 1833
Hon: E. Young -
June 16 - 1834
Lett J. Fowler 2 d 12 th July 1834
Act 7 June 1832

Pa. 53. Ct.
Byrth.

Official Business
Hon. Loren P. Waldo Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D.C.
Q3.2.33

No. 23, 233
1921
ACT OF MARCH 3, 1855.
Received March 28 th , 18 55
Theoddy Davis widow of John Davis Capt & Unit Bognstown R. I. Mil. Rev. War
Warrant 3523-160-55
Horace Gaylord Ashford 64

Horace Gaylord Depreciation
[Faint, mirrored cursive text, likely bleed-through from the reverse side of the page]

I, Horace Gaylord of Ashford in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut, aged fifty one years, do testify and say that in the month of April last past, I was employed by Theodly Davis the widow of Major John Davis late of said Ashford, deceased, to look up further testimony relating to the revolutionary services of her said husband, that in the fore part of May last I went to the town of Little Compton in the State of Rhode Island (the residence of said Davis during the Revolutionary War,) and called upon one Stephen Brownell, a Revolutionary Pensioner, to ascertain what said Brownell might know relating to said Davis services in the Militia of said town during the Revolutionary War, that I found said Brownell in the field some distance from his house with his hoe planting peas, and found that he had a distinct recollection of Maj Davis and of the facts of said Davis serving in the Militia on the shores of Little Compton and after much conversation with him upon the subject of the War, I told him I should like to have his deposition and for that purpose I would get my horse and carriage and carry him to the town Clerks office a distance of about one mile that his deposition might be taken by a Justice of the Peace he very promptly remarked that I need not be to the trouble of getting a carriage for him to ride as he could go that distance on foot as well, and as quick as I could myself, and that he would put on his coat and get his cane and go with me immediately, why my dear sir, said he I took my scythe last summer and mowed with the hands, as old as I be, and if I live, I intend to do the same next

hay season for I scarcely ever had a sick day so as to be confined to my bed in my life"— He very readily told me all about the several stations of the Guars along the shores— where the Guard houses were located and even who built some of them. In short I very seldom saw or Revolutionary Soldier that appeared so capable of relating the facts connected with that period as Mr Brownell, — I also called to see the Widow Lois Brown and found her to be a very intelligent woman, relating many particulars of the Revolution, not common for a woman to recollect, — each of the above named persons appeared to be very conscientious, so much so, that after their depositions were committed to paper each of them particularly requested that their depositions might be carefully read over by the Judge, before signing, that they might not contain any thing but what they could safely make oath to Their conversation to be sure was old fashioned in its pronunciation — pronouncing many names differently from the people of this day, such for instance as Colonel Tappin for Topham and Tyger Tiger for Taggart & Co, but the sounds of each of them seemed to be clear and bright Dated at Ashford this first day of July A.D. 1852 Horace Gaylord
State of Connecticut Windham County ss Probate District of Ashford On this 1 st day of July A.D. 1852 personally appeared before me John D. Richmond Judge of the Court of Probate for this District and made known to me that the foregoing Affidavit

Horan Gaylord signer of the foregoing affidavit and made solemn oath to the truth of the same and I certify that the said Horan Gaylord is to me well known and that he is a credible person and the foregoing statement by him made is entitled to credit
I said D. Richmond judge of the court of Probate for said District
State of Connecticut for Probate District of Ashford
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the court of Probate for the District of Ashford aforesaid this 1 st day of July A.D. 1882
I said D Richmond judge of Probate for said District

Theody Davis affidavit

I, Theody Davis of Ashford in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut, widow of Major John Davis late of said Ashford, deceased, do testify and say, that I have never known that Stephen Brownell and Lois Brown knew any facts respecting my late husband's revolutionary services until about the time their depositions were taken in the month of May last, and I further testify and say that I did not know the facts contained in the certificate of the Secretary of State for the State of Rhode Island were to be found upon record in said State until about the time of the date of said certificate, and I further say that the deposition of Stephen Pearce taken in the year 1836 was among the papers of my late husband and not discovered by me until recently - and that all said evidence is new, and in the opinion of deponent material to the issue in her application for an increase of said Davis' pension.
Theody Davis
State of Connecticut } ss Windham County } Be it known that before this twenty eighth day of June A.D. 1852 before me Horace Gaylord a Notary Public in and for the County and State aforesaid, personally appeared Theody Davis above named and made solemn oath to the truth of the facts by her subscribed, and I hereby certify that I am well acquainted with deponent and believe that her statements may be fully relied upon as correct; In testimony whereof I have hereunto signed my name and affixed my seal of this day and year last above written Horace Gaylord Notary Public

Personally appeared before me the undersigned a Justice of the Peace in and for the County of Windham and State of Connecticut Mayor John Davis being duly sworn Deposeth and saith that I did actual service in the Army of the Revolution of the periods mentioned below and in the following grades In May 1775 I enlisted for Eight months under Capt Aaron Wilbur I then lived at Little Compton Rhode Island - belonged to Col Church Regiment of Infantry then I did actual duty at Boston in an embodied corps as Quarter Master Sergeant for Eight months - In 1776 I Received a Lieut Commission and did actual service in the company commanded by Capt Wilbur belonged to Col Cook Regiment Infantry for the term of three months - and was stationed at the Swanton R. Island - on the 14 th Day of September 1776 I Received a Lieut Commission and belonged to an Infantry company commanded by Capt George Simmons Belonged to Col Cook Regiment Infantry I did actual service in the Army of the Revolution under this commission at Little Compton and vicinity two years - on the twenty first Day of June 1779 I Received a Captain's Commission of Infantry Belonged to Col Church Regiment Infantry then I did actual duty and service as Captain at Little Compton Rhode Island and vicinity for the period of ten months - I drew my regular pay and rations from the Government During the whole time of the above periods I did actual service in the army Eight months as Infantry Quarter Master - I did actual service as Lieut- ent two years and three months - I did actual service as Captain Infantry Company ten months - I belonged to the corps of Infantry in all these several campaigns - and and for such services I claim a pension in Woodstock Oct 3 rd 1833
John Davis

State of Connecticut Windham County Jo October 3 rd 1833 Then Major John Davis of Woodstock in said County made solemn oath to the truth of the facts to the within certificate and Declaration by him subscribed And I further certify that the said John Davis a Gentleman of Respectability and is a credible person and his Statement is entitled to credit -
James Lamson Justice of the Peace
I George Bowen Clerk of the Probate for the District of Woodstock in the County of Windham in the State of Connecticut do certify that James Lamson Esq before whom the annexed declaration was made is duly enrolled as a justice of the Peace in and for said Windham County that the signature of his name is his hand writing and that full faith and credit ought to be given to his acts as such
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of said office Dated at Woodstock this 4 th Day of October 1833
Attest George my Bowen Clerk of Probate for the District of Woodstock

10 Dec. 1833.
free
Geo. W. Crump Esq. acting Commissioner of Pensions Washington -
John Adams

Whitford Dec r 2 nd 1833.
Sir
Yours of the 18 th October by mail, came to hand a few days since, it was directed to Mr. John Fowler, in whose care, my Claim for a pension was left & by him transmitted to the "Pension Office" at Washington. The papers have once, been sent back stating that more proof than they contained, was wanting. I confess I know not, how nor where to go for any other proof than my papers contain. My claim rested on three particular terms of service. 1 st Term at Boston, in Col o Church's Regiment, where I served Eight months, as Quarter Master Sergeant, as will appear by Sylvester Brownell certificate & I think him and myself are the only persons, within my knowledge, that are living that belonged to that Regiment. This Claim I trust will not be disputed. 2 nd Claim for three months, in Col o Cook's Regiment for which claim you have my Commission. 3 rd Claim for Service performed in guarding the coast while the British were in possession of the Island, which claim came within the law passed for the benefit of Revolutionary Soldiers, as I viewed the letter of the Law, If I am mistaken.

yet I know I performed the duty set forth in my claim, If I fail in obtaining I shall have one comfort left - (in) Love to my country and the government under which I live - I pray God to continue them to the latest generations, knowing that I fought & bled to obtain them, before many, who are now managing the affairs of Government were born - If I was not at New Orleans, Bunker Hill & Sullivan's Battle, would, if they could speak, say, help the Soldier, who risked his life to gain the freedom that we enjoy. If you, sir, would be so kind as to call on Hon. Tristram Burgess Rep. - Hon. John Robbins Senator, they will throw some light on the subject - Mr. Robbins lives near Little Compton, where I performed the Mahitika Service -
I feel happy Sir, that the Claims that are made, are so well attended to, so that Government are not imposed upon, & the good old Soldier obtains some compensation. Sir if it is found, that agreeable to the act, I am to be entitled to a pension, you will be so kind, as to forward it, to the subscriber, now living, in Ashford, Windham County and State of Connecticut I am so much unwell, that I do not go abroad to do -

any business & if ever the pension, will do me any good, it is at this time - A Compliance with the above will oblige the old soldier, now in my 78 th year - " - John Davis
N. 13.
I have endeavoured to obtain the Certificate from Sec. of Rhode Island, but he was absent, and I did not succeed.

BY HIS EXCELLENCY,
John Brown Francis
Governor, Captain-General and Commander in Chief of the State of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations.
BE IT KNOWN , that the name " HENRY BOWEN " to the afore-written attestation subscribed, is the proper hand writing of Henry Bowen, Esquire, who, at the time of subscribing the same, was Secretary of the State aforesaid, duly elected and qualified according to law: Wherefore unto his said attestation full faith and credit are to be rendered.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of said State to be affixed at Prov- idence, this twenty second day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty- four and of Independence the fifty-eighth.
John Brown Francis
BY HIS EXCELLENCY'S COMMAND.
Henry Bowen Secy

State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.
In General Assembly December session A 1776.
It is voted and Resolved, That the Militia of the Town of Little Compton be forthwith removed and stationed within said town, in such places as Col. Thomas Church shall direct; and that the said Thomas Church procure such boats as shall be necessary for guarding the Sea coast of said town.
True copy of record - witness
Henry Brown Secy.
State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.
In General Assembly December session A 1777.
It is voted and Resolved, That the Militia and Alarm company of the town of Little Compton be drafted into two divisions on the tenth day of December instant, and be formed into companies with proper officers: That one of the said Divisions do duty within the said town, to guard the shores of the same from for the space of thirty days from the said tenth day of December: That after the expiration of the said thirty days, the first Division be relieved by the second, who shall do duty within the said town for the space of thirty days: That they continue to relieve each other, and do duty in manner as aforesaid, until

the further orders of this Assembly: That the commanding officers of the Militia and Alarm companies in the said town cause the said draft to be made, and the said Division to be duly received, agreeable to this resolve: That they be stationed by General Spencer, and be under the immediate command of the commanding officer of the Alarm Company in said town: And that they be subject to the rules, regulations and command, as the Brigade raised by this State for fifteen months.
It is further voted and resolved, That if any person who shall be drafted as aforesaid, shall refuse or neglect to do duty, the Town Council hire a man in the room of such delinquent person, and proceed in manner as is directed by a resolve of this Assembly passed at the session in October last.
And it is further voted and resolved, That each non-commissioned officer and private, who shall do duty as aforesaid, be allowed as a bounty, forty shillings lawful money: And that the officers and privates be allowed the same rages and rations as the officers and privates in the Continental service.
True copy of record - witness
Henry Bown Secy

Aug 22
Dear Professor Bangs, Certificate

Providence August 10 th 1832.
I do hereby certify that I have long known the bearer John Davis Esq. of Woodstock in the state of Connecticut -cut; & have always known him as an honest & highly respectable Gentleman; & I have the utmost confidence in any statement which he may may make William Burges

New Declaration of John Davis
May '33
10 months a captain 2 years a lieutenant

I George Bower Clerk of the Court of Probate for the my District of Woodstock in the County of Windham in the State of Connecticut Do hereby certify that John M c Clellan Esq r before whom the annexed Declaration was made is duly enrolled as a Justice of the Peace in and for said Windham County that the signature of his name is his hand writing and that full faith and credit ought to be given to his acts as such
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of said Office - Dated at Woodstock this 29 th Day of May A D 1833
George Bower Clerk of Probate for the District of Woodstock
[Handwritten signature]

Personally appeared before me the within "Warrant" to a Justice of the Peace in and for the county of Windham and State of Connecticut John Davis who being Duly sworn Deposeth and Saith - That I Did Actual Service in the army of the Revolution of the periods mentioned below and in the following grades - I was in actual service and did actual duty as quarter Master Sergeant Eight months - I did actual duty as a Lieutenant of Infantry for two years and three months - I also Served and did actual duty as a Captain of an Infantry Company Ten months and for such services I claim a pension Woodstock May 29 th 1833
John Davis

State of Connecticut Windham County ss. May 29 th 1832
Then Major John Davis now a resident and belonging to New Britain in said County and made solemn Oath to the truth of the facts to the within certificate and Declaration by him subscribed. I further certify that the said John Davis is to me well known and is a Gentleman of respectability, and is an credible person & witness and that his statement is entitled to credit.
John M c Ellen Justice of the Peace

John Davis
10 months a lotteries 2 years a limited —
Providence St & Co. 1000 not spent
1000 ✓
John Howland 2 d Pursuer

BRIEF objections to the admission of Pension Claims , of which those answered in the negative, in red ink, will apply to the claim of which require further proof or explanation.
I. Does the declaration show where the applicant resides? II. Did the declarant make the declaration in the county where he resides? III. If the applicant did not make the declaration in the county where he resides, is there any reason assigned for his not doing so? IV. Has the declarant mentioned the period or periods of the war when he served? V. * Has he mentioned with precision the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled? No Sec quon 5 first claim VI. Has he given the names of the officers under whom he served, in conformity with the regulations? VII. Has he made a relinquishment of every claim to any other pension than the one under the Act of June 7, 1832? VIII. Has the Court given their opinion? IX. Has the Clerk given his certificate? X. Is the Clerk's seal affixed? And if so, has it a device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal? No

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

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

State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.
Secretary's office April 21. A 1834.
I certify that at the session of the General Assembly of said State in August one thousand seven hundred seventy six John Davis was elected Lieutenant of the second company of Militia in the town of Little Compton, until the first Wednesday of May then next; that at said session in May (1777) said Davis was reelected to said office until the first Wednesday in May then next; that at May session following (1778) said Davis was reelected to said office until the first Wednesday in May then next; that at said May session (1779) said Davis was continued in said office until the next session of the Assembly; that at the next session in June 1779, the said Davis was elected Captain of said company until the first Wednesday of May one thousand seven hundred & eighty. That during the year one thousand seven hundred & eighty, there were no officers elected for the town of Little-Compton - That at May session one thousand seven hundred eighty one the said John Davis was elected Major of the second regiment of Militia in the county of Newport, All which appears by record in this office.
Witness Henry Bowen Secy.

BY HIS EXCELLENCY,
John Brown Francis
Governor, Captain-General and Commander in Chief of the State of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations.
BE IT KNOWN , that the name " HENRY BOWEN " to the afore-written attestation subscribed, is the proper hand writing of Henry Bowen, Esquire , who, at the time of subscribing the same, was Secretary of the State aforesaid, duly elected and qualified according to law: Wherefore unto his said attestation full faith and credit are to be rendered.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of said State to be affixed at Prov- idence, this twenty first day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty- four and of Independence the fifty-eighth.
John Brown Francis
BY HIS EXCELLENCY'S COMMAND.
Henry Bowen Secy

Washington
House of Reps
April 29 1834
Sir
I have received from Mr. Brantingham Esq. the certificate to be used in the application of Messrs Davis which I enclose to you.
I also enclose to you Mr. Towles letter enclosing the aforesaid self making inquiries about the application of Nathaniel Tompkins. William Woodruff & Sylvester Brownell Yours with much respect
Edward Young
for Edward E. Edward E. former Purgatory

Woodstock, April 24 th 1834
Dear Sir
I enclose two certificates from the Secretary of the State of Rhode Island for a pension relating to the claim of Major John Davis. He called on me to day and wished that I would send them on to you - and he likewise requested that you would call on Mr Burgess for assistance as he was soon acquainted with Mr Burgess believe those certificates which they have required must be satisfactory to Mr Edwards - I wish you to call on Mr Edwards and Examine the testimony of Nathaniel Torrpkins, William Woodman, and Deacon Sylvester Brownell which are now in the Pension office. I wish you to do all in your Power to obtain his claim as it is of much consequence to him - Should they require any thing further Mr Burgess who is acquainted with those services rendered at Littleton must be satisfactory - Your Early attention to Major Davis claim will confer a great favor to him and very much oblige
your Friend Hon E. Young Respectfully yours John Fowler
N.B I wish you to write me soon

May 10. 1853
Rel: to claim of Theody Davis widow of John - under the act of 3rd Febry 1853 & for arrears under act 7th June 1832.
100000 50000
Revig.
Jas H. Buel.
Present.
2245 9 1/2 1/2 8 5/8 1/2 1 1/2 2 3/4 2 1/2 1/2
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR. PENSION OFFICE, OFFICIAL BUSINESS
Commissioner.

State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations
Secretarys Office August 6 th 1832
This is to certify, that John Davis now residing in Woodstock county of Windham in the State of Connecticut was appointed by the General assembly of Rhode Island a Lieutenant in the Brigade raised in said State A.D. 1776.
And also, that the said Davis, was appointed Captain of the second company of militia for the town of Little Compton in said State A.D. 1779
All of which is on record in this Office
Witness Henry L Bown Deputy Secy of State.

Little Compton August 8 th 1832 we the subscribers hereby certify that Nathaniel Younkin & William Woodman bear a good character & have a fair standing in our town, the signers of a deposition of the same date made in favor of John Dais. —
Benson Linnman
Owen Greenell

State of Rhode-Island & Providence Plantations. Newport Sc. Little Compton. This Eighth day of August 1832. Sylvester Brownell Esq r . of s d Little Compton County of Newport & being duly sworn before me testifieth that he was respectively well acquainted with John Davis who now resides in Woodstock Ct, & that he served as Quarter Master's Sergeant, in Col. Thomas Church's Regiment of State Soldiers, for the term of Eight Months as nigh as I can recollect. Sylvester Brownell
I Alexander R. Brownell hereby certify that Sylvester Brownell who signed the above Deposition made oath before me that the facts set forth in s d Deposition are true according to the best of his knowledge recollection & belief.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand this Eighth day of August A D 1832. And I certify that he is a credible witness Witness A. R. Brownell Public Notary

State of Rhode-Island & Providence Plantations
Newport Sc. on this 8 th day of August 1832. - -
Nathaniel Tompkins & William Woodman of Little Compton County of Newport, being duly sworn before me & say that we were respectively well acquainted with John Davis then of Little Compton, now residing in Woodstock County Windham Bt. - , during the Revolutionary war, that sa John Davis was Lieutenant of a Company of Militia, & that we serve as Soldiers under him for the term of about two years as nigh as we can now recollect whilst the British was at Rhode Island - - -
Nathaniel Tompkins William Woodman
I Alexander R. Brownell hereby certify that Nathaniel Tompkins & William Woodman who signed the above Depo- sition respectively made Oath before me that the facts set forth in sd. Deposition are True According to the best of their knowledge, recollection & belief. And I hereby certify that they are credible witnesses. - In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed my Seal of Office this Eighth day of August A.D. 1832 Alexander R. Brownell Public Notary

BY HIS EXCELLENCY,
John Brown Francis
Governor, Captain-General and Commander in Chief of the State of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations.
BE IT KNOWN, that the name "HENRY BOWEN" to the afore-written attestation subscribed, is the proper hand writing of Henry Bowen, Esquire, who, at the time of subscribing the same, was Secretary of the State aforesaid, duly elected and qualified according to law: Wherefore unto his said attestation full faith and credit are to be rendered.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of said State to be affixed at Prov- idence, this twenty ninth day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty- three and of Independence the fifty- seventh .
John Brown Francis
BY HIS EXCELLENCY'S COMMAND.
Henry Bowen Secy

State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.
Secretary's office May 29 th A D 1833.
I certify that at the date of the annexed certificates signed "A. R. Brownell." Alexander R Brownell was a Public Notary within and for the county of Newport in said State duly elected and commissioned, as appears of record in this office.
Witness Henry Bowen Secy.

North Woodstock August 25 1854
Sir Enclosed I send you the Deposition of Andrew Taylor in favor of John Davis for a pension. I hope it will be satisfactory - he could have obtained two other witnesses six weeks ago of his actual service as Captain - but on going to Belle Clinton found them both Dead - There is no doubt but that Major Davis served as captain - he has got to be old and his memory much Broken your early attention to his claim will give him great satisfaction -
I am respectfully
Yours John Foster and

CT Sept 8.
FREE
Hon. James L. Cavanas Esq Washington City

North Woodstock Sept 3 rd 1834
J. L. Edwards Esq
Sir
I wish you to make out M aj John Davis' Certificate for a pension so far as he has proved to your satisfaction his claim to your satisfaction - I believe agreeable to your letter his services as Quarter Master Sergeant and Lieutenant and one month as Capt - have been accepted - for such services you will have the goodness to forward his claim without Delay and you will much oblige
Yours John Howland

Hon James I Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City

North Woodstock July 4 th 1834
Sir
I herewith send you Major John Davis Supplemental Declaration hope it will be satisfactory - The old gentlement has got to the old he wishes you would take up his case on Recpt of this and he believes you will give it a favorable action
Yours Respectfully John Fowler

North Woodstock July 4 th 1834
Sir
I herewith send you Major John Davis Supplemental Declaration hope it will be satisfactory - The old gentlement has got to the old he wishes you would take up his case on Recpt of this and he believes you will give it a favorable action
yours
Respectfully
John Fowler and

I Andrew Taylor of Providence in the State of Rhode Island being now 70 years of age on oath do testify & say. that I am well acquainted with John Davis who is now pre- sent before me . We were both natives of the same town in said State, to wit Little Compton & were resident in said town during the Revolutionary war - since the war I have re- sided in Providence for twenty two years past & the said John now resides in the State of Connecticut. - And I further certify & declare. that during the Revolutionary war in the years 1779 & 1780 I well remember that said John was a Captain of Militia & was often called to do military duty in said capacity during those years in guarding the shores of Narragansett Bay against

the incursions of the enemy, - and I further testify that during the year 1780 in the Spring I served a month under him as a private He was an Captain & Col. Nathaniel Church was our Colonel - we were stationed on the Island of Rhode Island. - I have no particular recollection of serving under him but one month but I have no hesitation in saying that he was in actual as captain service & a commander -able portion of the time during those years according to my best recollection
Andrew Taylor
Providence R.I. In Providence this twenty second day of August 1834 Sworn and Subscribed to before me and I further certify that the said Andrew Taylor is a credible witness
Joseph Hodges Justice of the Peace

State of Rhode Island &c
Providence R.I. My Dear Friend Randall Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas within and for said County, being a Court of Record. Do hereby certify that Joseph Hodges before whom the foregoing affidavit was sworn is a Justice of the Peace within & for the City of Providence, in said County, and that by law he is duly authorized and empowered to administer Oaths and take depositions - and that the signature thereto affixed is the proper hand writing of the said Hodges All which whereof I have
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said Court at Providence this twenty second day of August 1834
Deyster Randall Wk

n o . 1.466, Act 3. Feb. 1853 John Davis dec? Connect Mercers , adm. June 7 1832.
8 Mts 2 nd M Serg t $ 40. 9 th Lieut 100 5 th Capt 100 1 st Major 25 $265
per an from 4 th March 1831 to 1 st May 1846 when he died, Deduct former pay- ments at $100. per annum,
Pay to his widow Theody Davis,
Theody Davis widow of John, Ct. adm d , 3 Feby 1853. (as above) $265 per annum for 3 rd Feby 1853,
Cert to H. T. Johnson Esq Present

Pension Office
July 18 1853
Sir
John Davis. Connecticut Rolls. Act June 7 1832. at $100 per annum. Please state to what time paid.
Very Respectfully W. Cole
In Compt Pension
H Burd Esq
Auditor
Died 1 st May 1846,
Due to his death
H. Burd Auditor.

Brief in the case of John Davis dec d . His widow Theoddy Davis County and State of Connecticut act 8 June 7 1832 & 3 rd Feby 1853
Claim, (" original " or "for increase.")
Proof exhibited, (if original.)
Is it documentary, traditional, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
This case has been admitted by the Office upon the evidence of witnesses and some Record proof. It is now clearly shown by Record and the testimony of soldiers, who served with him and under him that he was as he is now presumed, by witnesses who stated the same facts in their own Declaration made many years ago, without having any reference to this case at that time,
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
Name and residence of Agent
H. J. Johnson Esq Present
Shurton Lipton
Examining Clerk.

1
Washington 12 May 1853
Hon: Loren P. Waldo
Commissioner of Pensions
Sir,
In the matter of the application of John Davis for a pension under the Act of 7 June 1832, I would respectfully request that the consideration of said case be resumed for the purpose of obtaining an increase of Pension.
John Davis in his several declarations, claims to have served in the Army of the Revolution in the grades and for the periods of time following to wit:
1 st , as Sergeant in the year 1775. 8 months 2 d , as Lieutenant " " " 1776. 3 " 3 d , as Lieutenant from the last of the year 1776 to 21 st June 1779, every alternate thirty days, making a period of 15 months.

4 th as Captain from June 21 st 1779 every alternate thirty days to the spring of 1780 a period of 5 months.
It is now further claimed that he did service as Major for one month in the spring and summer of 1781.
Upon these several claims Mr Davis has been allowed a pension as follows to wit:
 For Eight months service as Sergeant  " Three " " " Lieutenant  " One " " " " Captain 
John Davis deceased May 1 st 1846.
His widow to whom he was married in November 1803, still survives, and asks for an increase of pension for the following grades and periods of service to wit:
1 st as Major one month in 1781.
This service is proved by the certificate of the Secretary of State of Rhode Island, date April 16 th 1852, showing that John Davis was appointed Major of the 2 d Regiment of Militia in the County of Newport Rhode Island May Session 1781, and that Stephen Pease was

elected Captain of the 2 nd Company of Militia for the town of Little Compton, at the same session, This certificate also shows that an act of the General Assembly of the State of Rhode Island was then passed providing, that Five Hundred able bodied effective men of the service and junior classes of Militia (officers included) be further embodied and rendezvous at such places within the State by the 8 th day of June then next, to do duty for One month or until soon discharged. - The deposition of Stephen Pearse dated August 10 th 1836, now filed for the first time in this case, shows, that, he the said Pearse did actual service for One month at this time as Captain, under Genl Nathl Miller in a Regiment of which John Davis aforesaid was Major, and that said Davis also did actual duty as such Major for One month.
2 nd as Captain, for four months actual service, besides the one month already allowed. Davis' Commission as Captain is filed in the case and is dated June 21 st 1779.

H Stephen Pearce testifies that he did actual service every other month as Captain from the day of the date of his Commission until the British left Rhode Island.—
C. Fowler testifies that he served as Captain from June 21. 1779 to the Spring of 1780 every other alternate thirty days. Andrew Taylor, testifies that he served under him one month as Captain, in 1779 or 1780, and that Davis was in actual service as Captain a considerable portion of the time during these years.
Stephen Brownell, testifies that Davis was in actual service as Lieutenant and Captain in common with the two companies of Artillery in Little Compton from the last part of the year 1776 to about the time the British evacuated Rhode Island which he thinks was in October 1779.— Stephen Pearce Andrew Taylor and Stephen Brownell were pensioned for services rendered in connection with the service of Capt. Davis.—
I submit that this evidence proves the claim made by Davis in his declaration of 5 months service as Capt.

5 as Lieutenant for eighteen months, three of which have been allowed.—
His Commission as Lieutenant is on file, and the Certificate of the Secretary of State of Rhode Island also on file shows that Davis was Lieutenant from September 14 th 1776 to June 20 th 1779.
The certificate of the Secretary of the State of Rhode Island on file shows that the Militia of Little Compton were by a Resolution of the General Assembly passed December 10. 1777 divided into two Classes, or divisions to guard the shores of Rhode Island every alternate thirty days until further orders, and a similar Certificate also on file shows that the said Militia were so divided in the year 1778. This service continued until the Spring of 1780 when the British left the Island.
Davis, being a Lieutenant as aforesaid, was engaged in this service from December 1776 to June 20 th 1779 when he was commissioned as Captain.
This service is proved by the following evidence.
1 st His own declarations on file made at various times.— 2 nd Stephen Brownell, deponent aged ninety years, a revolutionary pensioner now filed in this case for the first time, showing that he was

6 in the same service with Davis in the other Company of Militia in Little Compton, and that he knows that Davis served as aforesaid, that the deponent had frequent interviews with Davis while in service.
Stephen Brownell is now receiving a pension for this service.
3 o Lois Brown, deposition now filed for the first time, showing that she is the widow of John Brown and eighty seven years of age, that her husband belonged to the same Company with Davis and served under him during the period aforesaid. She also relates incidents connected with this service evincing her knowledge and recollection of the facts about which she speaks. She is also receiving a pension for the service of her husband.
4 th Stephen Pearce deposition, now filed for the first time in this case showing that Davis was in actual service in the Militia of Rhode Island from December 1 st 1777 to June 1 st 1779 as Lieutenant.
6 th Cynthia Fowler, sister of Davis, testifies that he was in actual service as Lieutenant from December 1 st 1777 to June 2 d 1779.

6 th
Nathaniel Templeton and William Woodmaney both Revolutionary pensioners served for about two years under Davis as Lieutenant.
6 th Cynthia Fowler, sister of Davis, testifies that he was in actual service as Lieutenant from December 1 st 1777 to June 21. 1779.

7 From this evidence I submit that it is conclusively proved that Davis served as Lieutenant at least from December 1777 to June 1779 every alternate thirty days in guarding the shores of Rhode Island a period of nine months actual service, beside the three months service in 1776 for which he was allowed.
It appears from the certificate of the Secretary of State now filed for the first dated April 16. 1852, that the officers and privates of the militia were allowed the same wages for guarding the shores as the officers and privates in the Continental service. And said certificate further shows that the militia of the towns of Newton & Little Compton were in service in August 1779 corroborating the testimony of the witnesses above named.
From these facts I claim that the pension should be increased for the following service, not before allowed - to wit:
1 h One month as Major 2 nd Three months as Captain 3 rd Nine months as Lt. deducting what has been heretofore paid.

The new evidence herein mentioned was filed previous to Commissioner Heath's last report on the case is the deposition of Stephen Brownell, and Lois Brown, both Revolutionary pensioners who are now alive and receiving pensions for similar services as those rendered by Davis, also the Certificate of the Secretary of State of Rhode Island under date of April 16. 1852, and the deposition of Stephen Pearce taken August 16. 1836. - This last deposition was recard by Davis in his life time, but mislaid and not found until after his decease.
This claim is made by Theody Davis the widow of said John Davis. The certificate of the Judge of Probate for the district of Ashford shows that John Davis deceased May 1 st 1846, that the claimant is his widow and still living and that she was married in 1803. She now claims the arrearage of pension, and asks to be placed on the pension roll under the act approved 3 rd Feb, 1853
Very Respectfully James G. Barrett

The new evidence herein mentioned was filed previous to Commissioner Heath's last report on the case is the deposition of Stephen Brownell, and Lois Brown, both Revolutionary pensioners who are now alive and receiving pensions for similar services as those rendered by Davis , also the Certificate of the Secretary of State of Rhode Island under date of April 16. 1852, and the deposition of Stephen Pearce taken August 16. 1836. - This last deposition was recorded by Davis in his life time, but mislaid and not found until after his decease.
This claim is made by Theody Davis the widow of said John Davis. The certificate of the Judge of Probate for the district of Ashford shows that John Davis deceased May 1 st 1846, that the claimant is his widow and still living and that she was married in 1803. She now claims the arrearage of pension, and asks to be placed on the pension roll under the act approved 3 rd Feb y , 1853
Very Respectfully James G. Burritt

POWER OF ATTORNEY.
Know all men by these presents, That I, Theodora Davis of Ashford in the County of Windham , and State of Connecticut , and the widow of John Davis deceased, who was a Revolutionary soldier, do hereby irrevocably constitute and appoint Horace Gaylord of said Ashford my true and lawful attorney, for me, and in my name, to examine into and prosecute any claim for a Pension, &c., against the General Government, which may be due me by virtue of my deceased husband's service in the Revolutionary war, and the several acts of Congress relative thereto, and to receive the certificate of Pension, &c., when issued by the Department. I hereby confirm whatsoever my said attorney may do, or cause to be legally done, either in person or by substitution, in the prosecution of said claim, except drawing money in my favor, I revoking any other authority I may have given to any other person or persons in the premises whatsoever.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal, this
7 th day of April A.D., 185 3 .
Signed in presence of
Benjamin C. Simmons Mary A. Gaylord
Theodora Davis
STATE OF Connecticut } County of Windham } Sct.
On this seventh day of May , in the year 185 3 personally appeared before me, Benjamin C. Simmons , and acknowledged the within Power of Attorney to be her act and deed; and I certify that I well know the said Theodora Davis and that she is the person now present, and who executed the above Power of Attorney.
Benjamin C. Simmons J. P. Justice of the Peace

State of Connecticut { County of Windham } ss
I, Benjamin C. Simmons Clerk of the Court of Probate for the District of Ashford do hereby certify that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to said Court that John Davis was a Pensioner of the United States at the rate of One Hundred dollars per annum, was a resident of Ashford in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut, and died in said town of Ashford in the year eighteen hundred and forty six, on the first day of May that he left a widow whose name is Theodo Davis who is still alive and is still the widow of the said John Davis In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my name and affixed my seal of Office at Ashford this twenty fifth day of April in the year eighteen Hundred and fifty three
Attest Benjamin C. Simmons Clerk of the Court of Probate for said District of Ashford

Washington 5 July 1852
Hon J. E. Heath Commr of Pensions Dear Sir
I have the Honor to present herewith the application of Theoddy Davis widow of John Davis dec. d Claiming arrears of Pension due her husband at the date of his death under the Act of 7 June 1832.
Very Respectfully Your H on . Servt. James G. Bunt

(62)
J. G. Runt
Sept 13/02

Pension Office.
Sept. 15, 1852.
Sir:
The additional evidence filed by you for an increase of pension in the case of John Davis of Conn. Act 7 June 1832 is not sufficient to authorize the allowance of the increase claimed. Mr. Davis has been allowed $100 per an. and for all the service established by reliable testimony. It is a rule of the Office to take no evidence of service as conclusive except record, or that of soldiers who performed the same service and who are pensioned for it. Mr. Brownell, the witness relied on in this case does not appear to be a pensioner and although performing similar service to that claimed for John Davis, yet from his advanced age - 91 - the correctness of his memory may well be questioned. Without more conclusive evidence no increased allowance can be made.
J. G. Benet, Esq. Present.

I Christopher Brown of Little Compton in the County of Newport and State of Rhode Island aged Fifty Nine Years, do testify and say that I am a Neighbour and well acquainted with Stephen Brownell of said Little Compton, and that his vigor of body and mind, is now, and was, on the First of May last, very extraordinary for One of his Age, he is, in the constant practice of working in the field, and garden almost every day, and will relate with minute precision the particulars relating to the Revolutionary War, — That I have known him for many Years, and believe him to be of the Age, he declared, himself, to be viz. Ninety One Years, — his intellect seems to be but very little impaired by Age or any other cause, — And I further testify, that I am also a Neighbor, and well acquainted with Lois Brown the Widow of John Brown Esq. that she also is, a Person, of uncommonly bright intellect, for One of her Age, being Eighty-Seven years, Old, that I should have no hesitation to place implicit confidence in the statements relating to the Revolutionary War, made by either of the above-named Persons,
Dated at Little Compton this, Thirtieth day of June A.D. 1852 ~ ~ ~
Christopher Brown
State of Rhode Island County of Newport
s.s.
Be it known, that on this, 30 th

day of June 1852, Before me, Otis Wilbor, a Justice of the Peace for the County aforesaid, duly authorized by the Laws of said State, to Administer Oaths, and take Depositions, personally appeared Christopher Brown, the Signer of the above Deposition, and made solemn Oath to the truth of the same, and I hereby certify that the above-named Christo- pher Brown, is personally known to me and that his statements may be relied upon as being correct.
Otis Wilbor, Justice of the Peace
Christopher Brown Deposition

Certificate of the death of John Davis. —
May 1. 1846. —
Theody Davis widow. —
married in Nov r 1803. —

State of Connecticut { S.S. Probate District of Ashford County of Windham }
It is hereby certified that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to this Court, that John Davis, late of the town of Ashford, within said District, was a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States at the rate of One hundred dollars per annum, that he died on the first day of May A.D. 1846 leaving surviving, Theoda Davis, his widow, to whom he was lawfully joined in marriage on the day of November A.D. 1808 and that she still remains the widow of the said John Davis and is still living
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court this eighteenth day of May A.D. 1852
Alfred D. Richmond Judge of Probate for said District.

I, Lois Brown of Little Compton in the County of Newport and State of Rhode Island widow of John Brown who was a soldier in the Revolutionary War, my age is eighty seven years next August, do testify, depose and say that I was personally acquainted with Major John Davis formerly of Little Compton that the said Davis lived during the War and for many years thereafter within a few rods of my own residence, that I very well remember that he belonged to the same company with my said husband (commanded by Capt. George Simmons). John Davis was Lieut. & Stephen Pease was Ensign of a company that I remember that the said John Davis performed service in said Company during the time the British was on the Island of Rhode Island, that I have a distinct recollection of John Davis marching from the meeting house during said service, and the tents were pitched in plain sight a little east of the house where I now live, that I recollect very well that my minister the Rev. Mr. Ellis went out and prayed with them on the common near the meeting house - I remember very well that John Davis was actively engaged during said War as a Liberty man - that I have no doubt in my own mind but that the said John Davis from what I can recollect served the whole time the British was on the Island - I very well recollect seeing the British fleet when they sailed into the harbor and took possession of Newport - I remember that

That the Officers had rooms in the houses in the neighborhood. I remember Colonel William Barton and Col. Tappan of Newport were Officers that had rooms in the house where I now live - I very well remember that Stephen Pearce lived a part of the time during the Revolutionary War in the same house with Major John Davis -
Question to Deponent Is there any doubt of John Davis being in the service as Lieut and Capt. during the time the British was on the Island? answer, none at all, for every body knew that John Davis served the whole time as above stated - I very well remember the enemy killed one young man who was on guard near Seacomet Point by the name of Tyger, who said he never would be taken by the enemy alive and sure enough they ran him through with a bayonet and his wife was almost crazy about it, they the enemy took many prisoners while they were on guard and after getting all the information from them about the shores and the guard on said shores they would let them be exchanged which was the reason that Tyger said he would not be taken alive - further the deponent saith not
Sworn to and subscribed this tenth day of May A.D. 1852
Signed in presence of John Francis
John R Brown
Newport S. S. Little Compton May 10. 1852
I certify that Lois Brown, who made oath to, and subscribed the foregoing Deposition, is, a person with whom I am well acquainted

and whose character for truth and veracity is unexceptionable, ~ ~ ~
Otis Wilhoit, Justice of the Peace.
Col. Topham Saggart

Stephen Downhill & Lois Brown separately

I Stephen Brownell of Little Compton, in the County of Newport in the State of Rhode Island &c, aged Ninety years, do depose, declare and say, that I was, well acquainted with Major John Davis, who died in Ashford, Connecticut in 1824, (who was, formerly of Little Compton,) and that he during the Militia Service of Little Compton, in the Revolutionary War, was, a Lieutenant in the North or Second Company of Little Compton, of which Company, George Simmons, was, Captain, and Stephen Pearce Ensign at the time said Davis, was, Lieutenant. That the said Davis, was, in the Service as, Lieutenant and Captain, in common with the Two Companies, of Militia in Little Compton, that said Service commenced in the last part of the year, 1776, about the time the British took possession of the Island of Rhode Island I believe December Seventh, and continued until they evacuated the Island in the latter part of the year, 1779, I believe the Twenty Fifth of October, — that there were Four Guard Houses, erected on the Shores, of Little Compton by the Town, the Two North Guard Houses, being occupied by the North Company and the Two South Houses, by the South Company, or the South Company, — that I belonged to, and served in the South Company, and John Davis, in the North Company, — the Service required of

us, was, to guard the Shores, each way from the Guard House, a distance of, perhaps, Half a Mile, each way, being relieved once in Two Hours, and serving for a period of, Thirty Days, and then being relieved by the next Division of the Militia (the Militia being Draughted in Two Divisions,) to do duty every other Month, — That I was, born and lived in the same place, where I now live, which is, within a distance of about Two Miles, of the Birth Place, and residence of, the said John Davis, and I had a good opportunity of knowing with regard to his, services, we having frequent interviews, backward and forward with each others, Company in the day-time, while during the night season, we were more closely confined within our respective guards, and that I never knew of, the said Davis, having been excused, or released, from his, regular tour of duty, every other Month during the whole time as, above stated —
And further the deponent saith not Sworn to and subscribed on this, Eighth day of, May, A.D. 1852
Stephen Brownell
Newport R.I., On this, Eighth day of, May, A.D. 1852.
Then personally appeared before me, Otis Wilbor a Justice of the Peace for the County of, Newport, Stephen Brownell, abovenamed, and made Oath to the truth of, the statements by him subscribed — and I hereby certify that I am well acquainted with

Stephen Brownell, the deponent, abovenamed and believe his, statements therein made, may be relied upon as, being correct.
Otis Wilbor
Justice of the Peace
State of Rhode Island, &c. Secretary's Office, Providence May 12 A.D. 1852 -
I certify that Otis Wilbor of Little Compton in the County of Newport and State aforesaid whose signature is affixed to the two preceding certificates is a justice of the Peace for the Town of Little Compton aforesaid, duly elected, commissioned and sworn, and authorized by law to take the acknowledgment of Deeds and other instruments under seal, that full faith and credit are due to his acts as such, and that I believe said signature to be genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of said State the day and year before written.
M a Potter Secy of State

Certificate of Secretary of State Rhode Island
Dear Sir,
By the Rev. John Brown 1822

STATE OF RHODE-ISLAND, &c.
Department of State.
Providence, Apr. 16-1852 -
I certify that there appears on the Records of the doings of the General Assembly of this State convened at East Greenwich in December A.D. 1777 the following vote or Resolve viz.
"That the Officers and Privates of the Militia be allowed the same wages for guarding the coast and rations as the Officers and Privates in the Continental Service".
I do further certify, that it appears in the Records of said General Assembly for the May Session A.D. 1781 held in at Newport, that John Davis was elected to the Office of Major of the Second Regiment of the Militia in the County of Newport; - and at the same Session Stephen Pearce was elected captain of the Second Company of Militia for the Town of Little Compton; - and also at the same Session, that an Act was passed "That five hundred able bodied, effective men of the Senior

and junior classes of Militia (Officers included) be forthwith embodied, and rendezvous at such places within this State, by the eighth day of June next, to do duty therein for one month, from the time of their arriving at their places of rendezvous, unless sooner discharged by His Excellency the Gover- nor, or this Assembly."
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of said State the day and year before written.
Isa Potter
Secy. of State.

I further certify that at the August Session of the General Assembly A.D. 1779 - held at Providence the following vote appears on Record viz. "It is voted and Resolved, that four shillings and eight pence lawful money per day, in addition to the Continental Pay and Rations, be allowed to each of the non commissioned Officers and Privates of the Militia Companies of the Towns of Kingston and Little Compton, who are now doing duty in the said Towns, from the time of their entering upon service until their discharge.
Asa Potter Secy. of State

Washington January 30 th 1837.
Dear Sir,
enclosed you the Papers forwarded to me by Mr. James M. Davis of Philadelphia, as supplementary to other Papers filed in your office, on the subject of a Pension, which is claimed by the heirs of Major John Davis, — which I will thank you to examine and notify me of the result of your reflections upon them, and whether the evidence is such as you are satisfied with.
I am Dear Sir,
Yours Truly and Sincerely Yours J. M. [unclear]
The Honble J. L. Edward Pension Office Department.

Theda Davis' Power of Attorney to Sam P. Waldo.

I know all men by these presents that I, Theody Davis of Ashford, in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut do hereby constitute and appoint Hon. Loren P. Waldo of Tolland in Tolland County and State of Connecticut my true and lawful attorney for me and in my name to prosecute my claim for an increase of pension on account and in behalf of the Revolutionary services of my late Husband Major John Davis late of said Ashford deceased, and I hereby empower him the said Waldo to do any and all acts in my name and behalf necessary to the completion of the same.
Witness my hand and seal this fifth day of March A.D. 1852
In presence of May A Gaylord James S. Gaylord
Theody Davis
State of Connecticut Windham County ss
Be it known that on the fifth day of March 1852 before the subscriber a Notary Public in and for said County and State, duly authorized by law to administer oaths personally appeared Theody Davis above named and acknowledged the foregoing power of attorney to be her free act and Deed - In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand the day and year first above mentioned. Horace Gaylord. Notary Public

1836 November 25
State of New York Oneida County Towns of Sangerfield Village of Waterville ss
Personally appeared before me Oliver Harris a justice of the peace of the County of Oneida
Deponent Stephen Pierce of Sangerfield aged 82 years and being Duly Sworn deponeth and says That I received to and in the time of the Revolutionary war with Great Britain. The this deponent was personally acquainted with Major John Davis who was resident in Ashford in the State of Connecticut and this deponent further says that some time in the month of May 1775 that he as a private soldier and John Davis as orderly sergeant entered the service of their country under Captain Aaron Wilbur and remained in the service both of them in the same company until the first January 1776 and that Thomas Church was Colonel and commanded the Regiment to which their company was attached and that they were stationed at Boston and near by Boston the whole time as above stated And this deponent further saith that some time in May or June 1776 John Davis received a Lieutenants Commission and he this deponent an Ensigns Commission and that some time in the autumn of 1776 John Davis was again called into the service of his country in the capacity of Lieutenant and marched to Rhode Island and while there this deponent went onto the Rhode Island for a visit to Davis and others and while on the Island this deponent saw John Davis above named perform the duties of Lieutenant in Capt. Henry Wilds company and this deponent thinks the period which Davis was called out for at that time was three months but is not certain as to the true time neither is he certain that Davis served as long as three months for within that three months the British Troops drove them from the Island and this deponent further saith that in the summer of 1777 the three Commissioned officers of his company were called out to perform service as follows the Captain for one month the Lieutenant one month and the Ensign one month at a time each one a month at a time alternately through the season and that John Davis served his terms as lieutenant one month at a time through that season Sworn and subscribed Before me this 25th day of November 1836
Stephen Pierce
Oliver Harris Justice of the peace

State of New York Oneida County Clerks Office
I John D Leland Clerk of the County Courts of the County of Oneida and States aforesaid do hereby certify that Oliver Dabris Esquire is a Justice of the Peace in and for said County of Oneida and duly authorized to act as such that his term of Office or Commission commenced on the 1 st day of January A D 1835 and will expire on the 31 st day of December A D 1838 that I well acquainted with the hand writing of such Justice and verily believe that his signature subscribed to the above affidavit is genuine -
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the said County this 29 th day of November A D 1836 John D Leland Clerk
Not
X
Nov. 29

M c Davis ct. roll
H m . M. to aih H m
M c Davis of Bedford. Present
96 Aug

116000
I Cynthia Fowler of Hamilton county of - Madison town and State of New York - aged 74
years do testify, depose and say - That I am the sister of Major John Davis who now resides in Ashford, Connecticut - and that during the period of the revolutionary war and for a consid- -erable length of time thereafter, I resided with my brother above named and in the town of Little Compton in the Town of Little Compton State of Rhode Island, and afterwards married and removed into the State of New York where I now reside as above stated - That said John Davis my brother, did actual service in the revolutionary war - That he was Commissioned for the Artillerie Service December 1 st 1777 as Lieutenant, and served until the 21 st of June 1779. Four months of this time he commanded a Company as substitute for Capt e George Sim who was his Step Father - That he was Commissioned as Capt e on the 21 st of June 1779 and did actual service for half of the time (every other month) until the British left Rhode Island in the Spring of 1780 -
I Cynthia Fowler of a pure heart testify that I frequently went and stayed with my brother John's wife while he was away in the army during the close period that on one night the guard stationed on the shore came to my brother's house and told us that the British were landing and that we must get up and drive our cattle back from the shore. We accordingly rose and packed our clothes and went down and drove the cattle which were near the shore back some distance. They did not prove to be the British however - but a vessel had in attempting to pass by a British vessel in the night had come too near the shore and run aground and the persons who came on shore were the crew of the vessel. He further says not sworn & I have verified before my August 17 th 1836 before me Elizabeth Fowler

I James B Eldridge the justice of the peace before whom the within named Elizabeth Fawler swore to & subscribed the within affidavit do certify that I am personally acquainted with her and that she is a person of good character for veracity August 17 th 1836
James B Eldridge
J. B.
State of New York Madison County Clerk's Office } } I, Andrew S. Sloan, Clerk of the said County, do hereby certify that James B. Eldridge, before whom the within Affidavit purports to have been sworn, And also whose name appears to the above Certificate, was, at the date of the same, one of the Justices of the Peace in and for the said County duly elected and qualified. And that I am acquainted with his hand writing and verily believe his name subscribed to the said Affidavit and Certificate, to be his proper hand writing and signature. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said County this 18 th day of August 1836. A. Sloan Clerk

I Stephen Pierce of Oneida County and the town of Sangerfield and State of New York aged 82 years do testify before and say - That I am personally acquainted with Maj. John Davis who resides in Ashford Ct and that I knew him and served under him during the Militia service of Rhode Island - That he was commissioned as Lieutenant and did actual service in the Militia of Rhode Island under this commission from December 1 st 1777 to June 21 st 1779 - That he was commissioned as Capt in June 21 st 1779 and did actual service every other month till the British left Rhode Island and service the spring of 1780 till the time of the evacuation of the city of New York - I do further testify that there was a Brigade of Militia of about twelve hundred men called on after the British left Rhode Island for the term of one month and that I did actual service for one month at this time as Capt and that Maj. John Davis did actual service for one month at this time as Maj. - General Nathan Miller was General of this Brigade - Col Church was Col and Maj. Davis was Major. and I do further testify that during a part of the above time I lived in the same house with Maj. John Davis

Personally appeared before me Oliver Harris Justice of the Peace of the County of Onondaga in the State of New York - De Stephen Pease of Sangerfield and road (Waterville village) and made oath to the within declarations, and subscribed the same
Subscribed and sworn to Oliver Harris Before me this 18 day of August 1836
Oliver Harris Justice of the Peace
This may certify that I have been acquainted with Deacon Stephen Pease for more than twenty years and can with pleasure say that his character is unexceptionable Waterville August 18 1836 Oliver Harris Justice Peace
State of New York Onondaga County ss Liberty Office
I John D. Leland Clerk of the County Courts of the County of Onondaga and State aforesaid do hereby certify that Oliver Harris Esquire is a Justice of the Peace in and for said County of Onondaga and duly authorized to act as such. That his term of Office or commission commenced on the 1st day of January A.D. 1835. and will expire on the 31st day of December A.D. 1838. - That I am well acquainted with the hand writing of such Justice and merely believe that his sig- nature subscribed to the above affidavit is genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said County this 19th day of August A.D. 1836 -
For John D. Leland Clerk Ambrose Ransom Deputy.

Warren G. Gaylor Sept 8/53

Pension Office September 9/53
Sir
The case of Theoda Davis who applied for a pension under the act of Feb. 3 rd 1853 has been examined and allowed
The case was admitted upon evidence in possession of the office and the certificate issued to W. T. Johnson - Washington city.
Respectfully &c
Horace Gaylord Ashford Conn.

Washington D. C. April 5 th 1861
Hon George B Whiting Com r of Pensions
Dear Sir
I beg to request that you will cause a reexamination of the claim of the lady of Theodora Davis widow of John Davis of My State under the act of 1853 with a view to increase the pension. Her husband claimed service as Lt. Captain & Major. as much as 18 months as Lt - one month as Major and from 6 to 10 months as Captain. This should of course entitle her to a much larger stipend than she now draws. I therefore request that a certificate be issued for the proper increase
Very respectfully
John Woodruff 2 d District of Connecticut

Hon. J. Woodruff.
April 16 th 1861.

Washington April 16 th 1861 Hon George C Whiting Dear Sir
I am in receipt of Yours of the 13 th inst. asking me to set forth reasonable grounds for a reexamination of I would respectfully state that there appears to be evidence of more service on file than is allowed for. I therefore have to request its reexamination
Very truly Yours John Woodruff

Hon. Jno. Woodruff - May. 8.

Pension Office May 8 th 1861.
Sir;
In reply to your letter of the 16 th  inst.  ult. I have the honor to inform you that by a long established rule of this office, a claim once admitted, cannot be reopened for examination except on the presentation of new and material evidence.
No additional evidence has been adduced to show that Mrs Davis is entitled to higher rate of pension than she is now receiving.
I have the honor to be very respectfully
Your Oht. Servt.
Hon. John Woodruff New Haven - Conn.

Aug 1832. Bro Davis says he ent d . service May 1775. under cap Aaron Webber (then lined at Little Comp- ton Rd.) Col Church's Regt. served 8 mos as 2nd sergeant — In 1776 served as  three months as lieut. in Cap Mills Co. Col Cook's Regt. Gen Carrol's Brigade. On 16 Sep 1776 rec d a Lieut's Commission in Cap George Simmens' Co. Col Cook's Regt. served 2 years — On 21 June 1779 Rec d a Capt's Commission, served in Minute Co at Little Compton, remainder of the war, — Acted as Adjutant at Battle of New Port — (Clergyman's & Council Cert. they believe his statements). Certificate of Recy of State of R.I. that Davis was app d by the Genl. Assembly of R.I. a Lieut. 1776, app d " " " " " a Capt. 1779 Nathaniel Josephus & Mr Woodman swear that they served under Davis as Lieut. for 2 years. Sylvester Poinville swears that Davis was a 2nd sergeant for 8 months, Col Church's Regt. Fristam Bangs certifies to Davis Credibility, May 1833. Davis gives his service as above, except that he fixes his service as Col at 10 months. Octo 1833 . He re-iterates the above

The Records at the Office of Secy of State of R.I. show that in Aug 1778 Davis was elected by the Genl Assembly, Lieut of 2 o Co of Ma, until May 1777. 4 th  Genl Assembly was continued until 1779 May, June 1779 that then he was elect d Cap to serve until 1 st Wednesday in May 1780. - That in May 1781 he was elect d Major of 2 o Rep t Me in the Co of New Port.
In July '94 In Supplemental declaration, he says he served 8 months as 2 o in Sept 1775. Served three months as Lieut 1775, as above stated, Served year from Dec 1776 to Dec 1777 as Lieut. In Dec 1777 troops were divided into 2 Divisions, was drafted as Lieut & served, and Cap Simmens every alternate 30 days until June 1779. During this time he served 4 months as Cap, Simmens being unable to attend duty. In June 1779, rec d Cap's commission & served every alternate 30 days for 10 months.
Andrew Taylor believes that in '80 & '81 Davis served as Capt, guarding Narragansett Bay. He served under him one month.
Aug 1835 Cynthia Fowler testifies to his service as Lieut & Capt. (she was his Sister)

Nov 36. Stephen Pierce testifies to his services as a L. 1919 Capt.

By his Excellency William Greene Esquire, Governor, Captain-General, and Commander in Chief, of and over the State of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations .
To John Davis . Gentleman, GREETING.
Y O U the said John Davis being by the General Assembly of this State elected and chosen the Place and Office of Captain of the Second Company or Trained Band of the Town of Little Compton in the County of Newport in the State aforesaid, are hereby, in the Name of the Governor and Company of the said State, author- rized, empowered, and commissioned, to exercise the Office of Captain of and over the Company aforesaid: And to command, guide and conduct the same, or any Part thereof; And in Case of an Invasion or Assault of a common Enemy to infest or disturb this Plantation, are to alarm and gather together the Company under your Command, or such Part thereof as you shall deem sufficient, and therewith, to the ut- most of your Skill and Ability, you are to resist, expel, kill and destroy the same, in order to preserve the Interest of the good People in the Parts. You are also to follow such Instructions, Directions and Orders, as shall from Time to Time, be further given forth, either by the General Assembly, the Governor and General Coun- cil, or other your superior Officers. And for your so doing, this Commission shall be your sufficient Warrant and Discharge.
G I V E I T under my Hand and Seal of the said State, the Twenty-first Day of June in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy-nine.
By his Excellency's Command,
Henry Ward
W. Greene

By the Honorable NICHOLAS COOKE , Esquire, Governor, Captain-General, and Commander in Chief, of and over the State of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations .
To John Davis , Gentleman. GREETING.
WHEREAS the Committee appointed to act in the recess of the General Assembly of the State aforesaid, at their Meeting in Newport , on the Twelfth Day of September , in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy-six, ordered a Regiment to be raised from the Militia of the said State, to continue in the Service thereof Three Months from the Time of Inlistment; and you the said John Davis have been appointed First Lieutenant of the Fifth Company in the said Regiment: I DO THEREFORE hereby, in the Name of the GOVERNOR and COMPANY of the said State, Authorize, Empower, and Commission you the said John Davis to have, take and exercise, the Office of First Lieutenant of and over the Company aforesaid and to command, guide and conduct the same, or any Part thereof: And in Case of an Invasion, or Assault of a common Enemy, to infest or disturb this or any other of the United States of America , you are to alarm and gather together the Company under your Command, or any Part thereof as you shall deem sufficient, and therewith, to the utmost of your Skill and Ability, you are to resist, expel, kill and destroy them, in order to preserve the Rights, Property and Lives of the good People of this and the other United States. You are also to follow such further Instructions, Directions and Orders, as shall from Time to Time be further given forth, either by the General Assembly, the Governor and General Council, or other your superior Officers. And for your so doing, this Commission shall be your sufficient Warrant.
GIVEN under my Hand, and the Seal of the said State, this fourteenth Day of September in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy-six.
By His Honor's Command,
Henry Ward
Nich Cooke

State of Connecticut Windham County - ss. District of Ashford
On this 13 th day of September A.D. 1836 - personally appeared in open court, before Schabrow Berkley Esq. r Judge of the court of Probate for said District of Ashford Major John Davis now a resident of the Town of Ashford in said District & County - aged 79 - years who being first duly sworn according to Sun- deth on his oath make the following addition- al declaration, to a declaration by him before made, in order to obtain the benefit of - and an increase of his pension, under the act of Con- -gress, passed June 7. 1832 -
That he was commissioned a Lieutenant in the Revolutionary war, in the Militia service in Rhode Island, on the 8 th of December 1777 - and served until the 28 th of June 1779 - and that four months of this period of time, he served as Substitute for Captain George Simmons and this service was under Col o Cook and Col o Church
That he was commissioned a Captain in the same service, on the 21 st of June 1779 - and did actual service as such, for the one half of the time - that is to say, every other month from said 21 st June 1779 - until the British left Rhode Island, which was according to my recollection in April 1780 - This service, was under Col o Church as the Colonel John Davis
Sworn to and subscribed, on the day and year aforesaid, before the court of Probate aforesaid. Attest, Benj. E. Simmons Clerk

And the said Court of Probate do hereby declare its opinion, after the investigation of the matter that the above named Applicant John Davis for an increase of his pension was a revolutionary soldier, and served in the militia service in the revolutionary war, as he states, within in this declaration — and said Court from personal knowledge, further declares that said Applicant, is a credible person, now resident in the Town of Ashford aforesaid and his statement is entitled to full credit —
Attest. V Benj a C. Simmons Clerk
I Benj a C. Simmons Clerk of the Court of Probate for the District of Ashford, in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut do certify hereby, that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court of Probate in the matter of the application of John Davis for an increase of his pension —
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said Court — This 13 th day of September A.D. 1836.
Benj a C. Simmons Clerk

Supplemental Declaration of May 1 st John Davis ~
Personally appeared before me the undersigned a Justice of the Peace for the Town of Woodstock County of Windham and State of Connecticut May John Davis of said town and county aforesaid who being duly sworn Deposeth and saith that according to the best of his recollection he did actual service not less than the periods mentioned below and in the following grades - In April 1775 I Enlisted into Capt Aaron Welber's company of Infantry for Eight months - Belonged to Col Church's Regt- ment - after I arrived at Boston I was appointed Quartermaster Sergeant and did actual duty in that capacity at Boston & vicinity Eight months I returned home in January 1776 on the 14 th of September 1776 while living at Little Compton Rhode Island I received a Commission as Lieutenant I was immediately put under arms and did actual service as Lieutenant to a drafted company for three months - Capt Henry Wiles was Captain - after serving this three months - The militia at Little Compton was all called upon - I returned to my old company commanded by Capt Simmons where I did actual service on the shores of Little Compton as Lieutenant from December 1776 untill December 1777 making one year - In December 1777 the troops were divided into two Divisions and I was drafted as Lieutenant and I did actual service in the company commanded by Capt Simmons as Lieutenant off half of

The time (that is) once in thirty Days from December 1777 to June 1779 making one year and six months - nine months of this time I did actual Service as Lieutenant in the Company commanded by Capt George Simmons - During the above term of time of one year and six months Capt Simmons was unable to perform Duty for four months - I did actual Service as substitute for Capt Simmons four months untill he was able to return to his command which I claim captain's pay for the four months which I served for Capt George Simmons as substitute
In June 1779 I received a commission of Captain from the General Assembly of Rhode Island and did actual Service as Captain at Sattle Compton once in thirty Days for ten months making five months of actual Service in this company as Captain -
Sworn to and subscribed this 4 th Day of July 1834
John Davis
Before me
John Foster and Justice of the Peace

I George Bower Clerk of the court of Probate For the District of Woodstock in the State of Connecticut do hereby certify that John Foster Esq before whom the within declaration was made is duly enrolled as a Justice of the Peace in and for said Windham County that the within signature of his name is in his hand writing and that full faith and credit ought to be given to his acts as such
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the public seal of said court. Dated at Woodstock this 4 Day of July 1834
George Bower Clerk of Probate For the District of Woodstock

Full name of soldier, John Davis  Where did he enter service? Little Compton Rhode Island  (Town, county, and State.)  Under what officers did he serve? Col Thomas Church. Lt Col William Miller  Place of residence after service, Ashford Windham Co. Connecticut  (Town, county, and State.)  Approximate date of death, April 1 st 1846  Given name of widow, Theoda Davis  Davis died Sep 7, 1869.  Did either the soldier or his widow receive a pension? both  Additional information, Served as 2 nd Sergeant Lieutenant  Captain & as Major at Jamaica Plains  & in defence of Rhode Island.  Signature, John Davis Gaylord  (Mrs. or Miss to be prefixed if a lady signs.)  Post-office address, including street and number, town, county, and State, } Pasadena Los Angeles Co.  California.

#30 Farmington Avenue New Hartford - Conn - 1 mth Feb - 17 - 1921 To J. D. Bijington - Commissioner of Pensions
Dear Sir - Will refer in this reply, to your letter of Dec. 6, 1920, in accordance with instruc- tions in your letter of that date.
"Rev. War Section - 3-1865- Department of the Interior Bureau of Pensions Washington -"
I am enclosing such data as I have been able to

gather, in regard to John Davis of Ashford Conn, at your suggestion - His name & age (85) are duplicated in two volumes in the "Historical Society" of Hartford Conn, the town given in both instances as Ashford - Windham Co. Conn - (Vol. "Conn. Military 1775 - 1848" and "Vol. Census of Pensions for Revolutionary & Military services, as returned by the Marshals of the several judi- cial districts under the act

for taking the Sixth Census.") The approximate dates of his birth & death must have been 1755 - 1840 as his age as registered was 85 - He served in the Revolutionary War - His second wife's first name was Fleda - John Davis, of whom I am trying to obtain a military record - was my great grand- father - My Mother (his grand- daughter) always spoke of him as Maj. Davis - She has now been dead a good many years & the small family has become scattered, so that details of family history are impossible to obtain except the facts above given - For my son's sake I am very anxious to trace the Davis genealogy, & I shall greatly appreciate your assistance in my present inquiry - Very truly Yours, Mrs Walter G. Coules.

PURD A. GEESEY SECRETARY
OFFICE: 41 E. KING STREET
YORK, PA., May 16, 1936
Mr. Veterans Administration
Washington, D. C.
Gentlemen:
Will you kindly furnish me with military and family history of the following: OK
Major John Davis of Little Compton, R.I. b. May 21, 1756 later he moved to Pomfret, Conn. and died there April 1, 1846. He may have received a pension in Ashford, Conn. We believe him to have served in the Revolution from Rhode Island.
Also the son of Major John Davis; namely, Ichabod Davis, born Little Compton, R.I. Nov. 25, 1788, later of Pomfret, Conn. We believe him to have served in the War of 1812 from either Rhode Island or Connecticut. OK 1812
Very sincerely
Her home address that Ict. was 245 E. Princess St.
Address: Nellie L. Stein 41 E. King St., York, Pa.
this is Mrs. Nellie L. Stein C.A. Stein who gambled house address on the letter was sent rept 12/1/36 Dale The add. these two

PURD A. GEESEY SECRETARY
OFFICE: 41 E. KING STREET
YORK, PA., May 12, 1936
Mr. Pensions Commissioner
Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir:
Will you kindly send me the information of Ashford you have available on John Davis /listed on page 663 in "Connecticut Men in the Revolution"
Census of Pensioners in 1840 - 85 yrs. old.
Sincerely,
Nellie L. Stein
Address: Nellie L. Stein 41 E. King St. York, Pa.

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
Washington, D. C., Mar. 20 th , 192 4
In reply to your request of _____, received _____ for a statement of the military history of John Davis a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired information as contained in his (or his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau.
   DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. LENGTH OF SERVICE. RANK. OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. STATE.   CAPTAIN. COLONEL.     May 1775 8 mos. Gm Sgt. Aaron Wilbur Church R. I.   1776 3 mos. Lieut. Wilds Cooke   Sept. 14, 1776 1 yr. Lieut. Geo. Simmons "   June 21, 1779 5 mos. Cap't 2 nd Co. of Little Compton R. I. Church   1781 1 mo May. 2 nd Reg't Mil. County of Newport, R. I.  
Battles engaged in, Rhode Island & several skirmishes
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Little Compton, R. I.
Date of application for pension, Aug. 21, 1832, et al.
Residence at date of application, Woodstock, Windham Co., Conn.
Age at date of application, b. 1756 in Little Compton R. I.
Remarks: He mar. Nov. 13, 1803 in Brooklyn Ct. Theodora of Theda Scarborough. He d. May, 1846 in Ashford, Ct. and she was al d pen on an ap d Apr. 23, 1853, while res. in Ashford, Ct., ae. 81 yrs. Sol. step-father was Cap't Geo. Simmons above noted.
Respectfully,
Commissioner.

June 29, 1936.
Mrs. C. A. Stein 245 East Princess Street York, Pennsylvania.
BA-J/ILL John Davis W. 26787
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letters in which you request the Revolutionary War records of Jonathan Davis who lived in the vicinity of Pomfret or S. Woodstock, Connecticut, Major John Davis of Little Compton, Rhode Island, born May 21, 1756 and died April 1, 1846 in Pomfret, Connecticut, John Davis of Ashford, Connecticut, shown on the Census of 1840 as aged eighty-five years, also the War of 1812 record of Ichabod Davis of either Pomfret, Connecticut, or Bristol, Rhode Island, and the Civil War record of Thomas C. Davis, Co. E, 38" Regiment of Illinois Volunteers.
There is no claim for pension on file based upon service in the Revolutionary War of the above noted Jonathan Davis, nor for service in the War of 1812 of an Ichabod Davis. The record of John Davis of Rhode Island, the pensioner of Ashford, Connecticut, is furnished herewith as found in pension claim, W. 26787, based upon his service in the Revolutionary War.
Your letter has been referred to the proper division for reply in regard to the Civil War soldier.
Very truly yours,
A. D. MILLER, Executive Assistant to the Administrator.