Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 14863, Theophilus Hastings, Mass.

SERVICE
NUMBER
Mass.
Hastings, Theophilus Betsey
N. 14863.
CONTENTS

Informed Apr 25, 1822 that he could not be restored here to Hon. L. Bigelow 10 Rept
The above claim fully paid in 1818 by the Hon. Isaac Parker, Attorney, Mass.
3647.
Massachusetts Roll
Theophilus Hastings, 4
Private.
Massachusetts line - 1781 - 2 years In the army of the United States during the Revolutionary War.
Inscribed on the Roll of Massachusetts at the rate of 8 Dollars per month, to commence on the 9 of April 1818
Certificate of Pension issued the 15 of Oct 1818 and sent to The Hon. Isaac Parker Worcester Massachusetts
  Arrears to 4th of  Sept. — 1818  38.93    Semi-ann. all paying  4 Mar 1819  48.00    Arrears 4 mo 26/30   86.93  
{ Revolutionary claim, } { Act 18th March, 1818. }
Not entitled
Hardwick Massachusetts

3. (110) No. 21. / 59 J. H. Hastings. Nov. 30/59.
✓ 4543
Massachusetts
Betsy Hastings widow of Theophilus Hastings who was a private Mas. in the Mass. as Line
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 80 Dollars 00 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843.
Certificate of Pension issued the twentieth day of Jan y 1844 and sent to
C. G. Prentiss Worcester Mass ts
[Act of March 3, 1843.]
Recorded in Book A Vol. / Page 44

Theoph. Watkins 9 April Barnes
State of
Citizen of the United States, now resident at in the State of...
Not on file
testify and declare that in the event of the Revolution, on
service of the United States on the
I entered and was engaged in the
commercial establishment, and served accordingly from that time to
Admitted
Three affidavits annexed
and that, by reason of my reduced circumstances in life and
and that I left the service on
poverty, I stand in need of assistance from my country, for support, being now of the age of

W. Worcester
I Jonathan Warren of Hardwick in the County of Worcester and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, of lawful age do testify and say, that I am knowing that Theophilus Hastings, now of Hardwick aforesaid, served as a soldier in the Massachusetts line and Army of the United States from some time in April or May 1781 to May 1783 at which time I left Theophilus Hastings in the Army further saith not — Jonathan Warren
Worcester ss August 22 nd 1818
Personally appeared the above named Jonathan Warren and made solemn Oath to the truth of the above certificate by him subscribed, before me —
Timothy Paige Jr. Clerk
Worcester ss August 22 nd 1818
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
WORCESTER, ss.
I, ABIJAH BIGELOW, Clerk of the Judicial Courts held within and for said County of Worcester, certify, that Timothy Paige, Esquire, before whom the annexed affidavits have been made, is a Justice of the Peace within and for said County, duly qualified for the purpose, acting under the authority of this Commonwealth, and that his name subscribed thereto is his own proper signature.
IN testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the County seal, this twenty fifth day of August,
A. D. 1818.
Abijah Bigelow, Clerk
In application of Theophilus Hastings of Hardwick =

Worcester
I Jonathan Warren of Hardwick in the County of Worcester and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, of lawful age do testify and say, that I am knowing that I was in Hardwick at the time of the Revolution, served as a soldier in the Massachusetts line and Army of the United States from some time in April or May 1781 to May 1783 at which time I left Hardwick in the Army further saith not — Jonathan Warren
Worcester p August 22 nd - 1818
Personally appeared the above named Jonathan Warren and made solemn Oath to the truth of the above certificate by him subscribed, before me —
Timothy Paige J. Peace
Worcester p August 22 nd - 1818
I hereby certify that full faith and credit may be given to the testimony of Jonathan Warren who subscribed the above certificate
Timothy Paige J. Peace

I John Gorham of Barre in the County of Worcester & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, of lawful age do certify & say that I am knowing that Shepheles Hartley, now of Hardwick in the County of Worcester served as a soldier in the army of the United States, in Capt. William Mills Company in the Seventh Massachusetts Reg t Cavalry by John Brooks Lieut. Col l Commandant, from near the close of the year 1781 to June 1783 at which time I was discharged from the Army, and left the Hartley serving in said Company and Reg t - further saith not —
John Gorham
Worcester ss August 22 nd 1818
Personally appeared the above named John Gorham and made solemn oath to truth of the above certificate by him subscribed, before me
Timothy Paige Jr. Pease
Worcester ss August 22 nd 1818
I hereby Certify that full faith and credit may be given to the testimony of John Gorham who subscribed the above certificate —
Timothy Paige Jr. Pease
Enaps

in the County of Worcester
I John Hastings of Hardwick, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts of Lawful age Testify and say That Theophilus Hastings of said Hardwick had lived with me several years previous to March in the year 1781 as near as I can recollect and at that time he enlisted as a soldier into the Continental army for three years, and Marched to join it - That in the month of October in the year 1783 as near as I can recollect, he returned and shewed me an Hon. ble Discharge signed by Genl. Washington and that he valued it highly on account of the signature — and further saith not John Hastings
Worcester p August 24 th — 1818
Personally appeared the above named John Hastings and made solemn oath to the truth of the above certificate by him subscribed, before me —
Timothy Paige Jus t Peace
Worcester p August 24 th — 1818
I hereby certify that full faith and credit may be given to the testimony of John Hastings Esq r , who subscribed the above cert e
Timothy Paige J. Peace
9

John H. Haring
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State of Massachusetts
County of Worcester
I Theophilus Hastings
a Citizen of the United States, now resident at Hardwick in the County of Hampshire in the State aforesaid, do on oath testify and declare, that in the War of the Revolution, on in March 17 81
I entered and was engaged in the land service of the United States on the continental establishment, and served accordingly from that time to the end of the war
as a private soldier against the common enemy, without any interruption or absence: that I belonged to first to a company commanded by Captain Warren and afterwards in the same company commanded by Captain William Mills in Lieut. Colonel John Brooks, being the seventh Massachusetts regiment
and that I left the service on in October AD 17 83 when I was honorably discharged which discharge I have lost
and that, by reason of my reduced circumstances in life and poverty, I stand in need of assistance from my country for support, being now of the age of fifty four years
And I hereby relinquish all claims to every pension heretofore allowed me by the laws of the United States, if any may be or hath been so allowed.
Theophilus Hastings
BE IT REMEMBERED, That on this eighteenth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eighteen pursuant to a law of the United States, entitled, "An Act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the Revolutionary War," made and passed on the 18th of March, A. D. 1818, personally appeareth before me, Isaac Darrow Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court in said State
the abovenamed Theophilus Hastings and after due examination and caution to testify and declare the whole truth, he maketh oath to the declaration aforesaid, and subscribes the same in my presence; and, on examination made by me the said Judge, it appeareth to my satisfaction that the said declaration is true.
Witness my hand & the seal of said Court the day & year aforesaid
Isaac Darrow C.S.J.C.

Theophilus Hastings.
In July 23 rd 1821 that he could not be re-integrated - handed Mr Lee Esdaile - Markfield City
March 1819 Mr Edwards
with pleasure
decade
Nobahilla - now often appears to be past working ages

Schedule of the Estate of Theophilus Hastings of Hardwick, in the County of Worcester, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Applicant for a pension, under the Act of Congress of May 1. 1820. viz.
  One old house, standing on the land of a widow and heirs undivided 28 foot by 18, not finished out side nor in.  $30.00     1 old desk not trimmed  $3.00  1 old case drawers not turn? 3    1 large pine chest with one drawer  1.00  6 old kitchen chairs $1    2 pine Tables $1.00  1 light stand  0.25 2 beds leads    2 spinning wheels  0.50  2 pails, 33    1 three pail kettle $1.00  2 cider Barrels old, 33  1 dish kettle 25    1 pail pot, no legs, 33  1 tea Kettle 1.00  1 Skillet, 16    1 pair flat irons, 08  1 fire shovel & tongs, 50  1 spider, 42    1 pudding kettle, 0.75  1 Earthen pan, 12  6 small plates 25    1 Cream pot, 13  1 platter, 25  2 qt tin dishes 25    6 Tea cups, 16  6 Saucers 16  1 tea pot, 16    1 nail hammer, 16  1 Broad axe $1.00  1 narrow axe, 50    1 draw shave, 25  3 screw augers, 67  1 pair Chisels, 50    1 pr Compasses, 08  2 jointers $2.00  2 fore planes, 50    2 hand saws $1.50  1 rabbit plane, 34  4 beads 34    1 corner, 34  3 oges 50  4 hollow ground, 0.67    2 pt. bowls, 16  4 Glass bottles, 33  6 Chisels, 67      1 box rule, 16      1 pig or sheet 4.50      2 Earthen Jugs, 16      1 pig or sheet 4.50      5.15      Total amt - $66.61    (no mat stock)
My family is composed of a wife named Elizabeth P. Hastings, aged 51 years, and the following children: Walter aged 25 years; Miriam aged 18 years; (same in his time and generally unable to work) Harriet aged 15 years, and Hamilton aged 10 years. Since I left the United States Service, I have followed the Carpenter and joiner's trade for a living, and got some property; 22 years ago, by a severe sickness, and other misfortunes, I lost all my real estate, and a great part of my personal property; my wife was sick for three years, so as to not to take charge of the family. In the mean while I buried three children, and by continual exertions at my occupation which is very hard in the country towns, brought on a rheumatick complaint, which has rendered me unfit for business in a great measure; my wife is a very weakly slender woman, and generally out of health. With respect to my country and officers, I submit my fate - so I subscribe myself my country's friend
Theo Hastings.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
COUNTY OF WORCESTER, ss.
ON this twenty first day of June 1820, personally appeared in open Court, before the Circuit Court of Common Pleas, being a Court of Record, within and for said County of Worcester, established as such by the laws of said Commonwealth, Theophilus Hastings aged fifty six years, resident in Hardwick in said County, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth, on his oath, declare that he served in the Revolutionary War as follows: that in the month of March 1781, I enlisted into the service of the United States, on the continental establishment, in the state of Massachusetts; I enlisted into the company commanded by capt Benjamin Warren, afterwards by capt William Mills in the Regiment commanded by Lt. Col. John Brooks, com- mandant, being the 1st in the Massachusetts Line: the date of my original declaration application was April 9 th 1818, and my pension certifi- cate is numbered 3647: —
and I do solemnly swear, that I was a resident citizen of the United States on the 18th day of March, 1818; and that I have not, since that time, by gift, sale, or in any manner, disposed of my property, or any part thereof, with intent thereby so to diminish it, as to bring myself within the provisions of an Act of Congress, entitled "An Act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States, in the Revolutionary War," passed on the 18th day of March, 1818; and that I have not, nor has any person in trust for me, any property or securities, contracts or debts, due to me, nor have I any income, other than what is contained in the Schedule hereto annexed, and by me subscribed.
Theophilus Hastings
Sworn to and declared, on the twenty first day of June, 1820, before the said Court.
Attest, Abijah Bigelow, Clerk.
I, ABIJAH BIGELOW, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Common Pleas, holden within and for the County of Worcester, do hereby certify, that the foregoing Oath, and the Schedule thereto annexed, are truly copied from the Record of the said Court; and I do further certify, that it is the opinion of the said Court, that the total amount in value of the property exhibited in the aforesaid Schedule, is sixty six dollars and sixty one cents.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said Court; on this twenty first day of June, 1820.
Abijah Bigelow Clerk of the Court for the County of Worcester.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts County of Worcester ss.
On this twentieth day of August in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and fifty three, personally appeared before the Court of Probate within and for said County of Worcester, Betsey P. Hastings, a resident of Hardwick in said County aged seventy four years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the Acts of Congress passed July 7, 1838 and the 2 d of August 1842, and the joint Resolution of the 16 th of August 1842, granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary war.
That she is the Widow of Stephen Hastings, late of said Hardwick deceased, who was a private soldier in the Army of the Revolution and a pensioner of the United States at the rate of ninety six dollars a year, and service as he always served three years and upwards. He went into the service from said town of Hardwick, and as she widely believes,

for the term of three years; that he served principally in the Company of Captain William Mills in the Regiment of Colonel John Brooks, till the expiration of the term of his enlistment, near the close of the war. She believes so, because she has heard him speak of this service, and because she has found an Affidavit of his, narrating the facts in relation to it, which accom- panies this declaration, and is marked (A.) She has no other documentary evidence of his services, and for further proof of them, she respectfully refers to his declaration for a pension under the Act of Congress passed in the year 1818, and the papers accom- panying the same, and to the rolls in the War Department.
She further declares that she was married to the said Theophilus Hastings at Barre in said County of Worcester, by the Rev. Jonah Dane, on the twenty second day of Decem- ber in the year seventeen hundred and eighty five. That her husband, the aforesaid Theophilus Hastings, died at said Hardwick, on the thirty first day of October eighteen hundred and sixty two; that she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service, but the marriage took place

Inverness to the first of January next ten hundred and ninety four, viz at the time above stated; That the has not been married since the death of his said husband, and is still his widow.
I own & subscribe on the day and year first above written
James B. Hastings
Before me
John M. B. B. B. Judge of said Court of Probate.

Extract from the records of the Chh in Barre page 207 kept by Rev. Josiah Dane Pastor of said Church my predecessor in office, said page headed "Marriages" "Theophilus Hastings Hardwick & Betsy Prince Ames Barre 22 Dec 1785 " Twenty second of December, One thousand, Seven hundred & Eighty five"
State of Massachusetts, County of Worcester Barre August 18 1843
I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy of the record from the record of Marriages above described. now in my custody as Pastor of said Church, with the exception of the date which is expressed on the record in fair, legible figures as follows "22 Decm 1785"
Attest James Thompson, Pastor of sd Chh
I James Thompson above named depose & say that I hold the office of Pastor of the Chh in Barre in the County, town & State aforesaid & that the above is a true extract from the records of Marriages in said Church with the exception above named as certified by me
Barre August 18 1843
James Thompson, Pastor of sd Chh
Subscribed & sworn the day and year last above written, Before me, Joseph Stone, Justice of the Peace —
I further certify that the above deponent is a person entitled to full credit. —
Joseph Stone Justice of the Peace,

WIDOW, &c.
File No. 14863
Betsey Hastings Widow of Theophilus Hastings Rev. Rev. War
Act: Mar 3 d 1843
Index:—Vol. a , Page 318
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Massachusetts.
Betsey Hastings widow of Theophilus Hastings
who was a pensioner under the Act of 1818. and who died on the 31 st October 1842. of Worcester Co in the State of Mass. who was a Private in the Company commanded by Captain W m Mills of the Reg t commanded by Col Brooks in the Mass. line for 2. years.
Inscribed on the Roll of Massachusetts at the rate of 80. Dollars ~ Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.
Certificate of Pension issued the 25 th day of November 1843 and sent to S. M. Barton, Worcester Mass.
Total amount, $ 400. 00.
[Act July 7, 1838.]
Recorded by H. L. Evans Clerk, Book D. Vol. 1. Page 59.

Massachusetts
Theophilus Hastings, since served 2 years from 1781.
1 st Sched: dated 21 June 1820. Sold frame house — $30. — Personal property — 36.61 Total $ 66.61 15 Oct 1818 (date of will) 1819
Sched: under Act of Mar. 1823. (Made 10 th Ap. 1823) Old house (bri of ground rent) $15. — Personal property — 27.48 Total $42.48
Claimant aged 80. no occu- pation & no family given accounts for the decrease of property
Sold some few articles to support himself and
the remainder be com- of less value by un- pay — —
Abijah Bigelow Esq. Worcester Mass.
Let to C. Myton, June 11. 1835 on lot. Faneuil, July 8: 1838
Rein May 26. 1823 let to Jos. Stone Aug 11. 1843
March term 1819.

Ware Nov 14 th 1859 To the Pension Agent Sir; By request of of Arba Hastings Esq r son of Theophilus who was a Pensioner, I pressed to write you a few to ascertain the amount that was last paid the heirs on the said Arba's due. I think there was something paid in 1854 or thereabouts. I suppose you can tell by referring to the books of that date. If you will do so immediately you will confer a great favour & if there is any extra charge I will pay it on receipt of your Letter, yours Respectfully John H. Hastings

Respectfully referred to Council of Section Pursuant to order of the Nov. 17. 1859
The name does not appear in the D.C. roll
W.B. for [unclear]
W.B.
Washington
Nov 17 1859

in reconsideration amount of prop ty $66. 61.
56. years of age - served 2 yrs. a Carpenter by trade. The Selectmen of the town say he is inform - Wife 51 - in health - one Son - 25 - able to support himself - Hiram - 18 - same - Harriet 15 -
acc t of W Lee Esq. Hamilton 10.
3 rd Aud.
over

Service at the close of the war & not long — His family not helped helped — Not entitled

Betsy Hastings will of Theophilus - Mar. 10, 1843
changed to Rev. C. A. H. S. See the Register.
J. G. Whiting Esq. Pension
Treasury Department,
THIRD AUDITOR'S OFFICE,
OFFICIAL BUSINESS.
Auditor.

Theophilus Hastings, Massa: (Hon. L. Bigelow, H. R.)
Aged 56 years - served from March 1781 to June 1783 - a carpenter by trade - The selectmen of the town state that he is infirm - wife 57 - in health - one son, 25, able to support himself - one son, 18, lame - 1 daughter 15.
No. 2 in Schadilla - Apr 25 - 1822 that
he could not be mustered in
that service
close of war.
family not helpless

Watson, J. S. & Co. Wholesale Dec. 1843.
W. B. And Dr. Winter 1843 Mr. 228 Ames of Punahou

Treasury Department Third Auditor's Office Nov. 23. 1839.
Sir;
In reply to your enquiry of the 21 st inst. I have to inform you that the pension of Betsey Hastings Mackintosh, roll, under Act of March 3. 1845, was paid in full at the Agency, on the 20 th Mar. 1844, to W m Mixter, her duly constituted attorney , being for her pension from March 4. 1843 to March 4. 1844.
There does not appear to have been any subsequent payment in the case under the Act of June 17. 1844.
Very Respectfully Yours &c. &c.
A. J. Stearns Auditor
Geo: C. Whiting Esq. Commissioner of Pensions

5029
Decr 23 1843
Map
Belsay Hastings
3 March 1843
Colon. James L. Edwards
5.8 Stone 4. Chubbins J. D. May.
Court of Pensions
War Department
Washington City
FREE

5029
Decm 23 1843
Miss
Betsy Hastings
3 March 1843
Hon. James D. Edwards
S. Stone, H. Chubb, J. May.
Comt. of Pensions
War Department
Washington City
ONE

Womeston Dec. 20. 1843.
I send the Declaration of Betsey Hastings.
The case of Sarah Stone, forwarded by me June 21 st - of Hannah Chubbins, forwarded July 5 th and Deborah May, July 26 th . I have not yet heard from. If there is any objection to either of them, please to inform
Your obedient servant, Chas. G. Prouty.
Hon. J. C. D. Edwards

9579 Sept. 8. 1843.
Betsy Hastings
July 7. 1838.
Ms. B.
Thompson
FR.B.H.
Herberts Super
Commission of Pensions
Washington D.C.

FROM
Miss. Phoebe
Edward Payson Commission of Pensions Washington D.C.

Wrentham, Mass. Sept. 6. 1842.
J. L. Edwards Esq.
Sir Enclosed are the papers in the case of Betsy J. Hastings an affidavit for a summon under the Acts of Jan. 7. 1832 and Aug. 1832
Please let the certificate be forwarded to me.
I am very Respectfully
J. M. Barton

Hon. John C. Calhoun
Secretary of War
Washington

To the Hon. John Calhoun Secretary of War
Theophilus Hastings, of Hardwick, in the county of Worcester a Revolutionary Soldier respectfully represents that he was a petitioner under the act of Congress of 1818 that in compliance with the act of May last, he sent to the War Office a schedule of his property supported & authenticated, (as he supposed) as the said act directs but he is not a little surprised, and more grieved, to find that his name is not again put on the pension list; (and fully believing, that it is owing to some mistake or inadvertence that his claim is not allowed and that if his circumstances were fully understood as they really exist, it must be seen, that if any person who has faithfully served his country in the time that tried men's souls; he is entitled, to the assistance of his country, in poverty & distress. He is one, he has therefore been induced, once more to solicit the bounty of his country, to assist him in his declining years, that he may at least be spared the mortifying alternative of that while his country is enjoying the rich fruits of Liberty & Independence (which he has the vanity to believe that he has humble tho' a full individual by his public efforts contributed in some measure to procure) either of resorting to private charity for support, or suffering for the necessaries of life. and which would be a mark  be more painful reflection, that his country has either forgotten him, or has abandoned the high principles of justice which have ever characterised her councils. He has therefore been induced to request the Hon. Secretary, to review the papers in the case, where he will find that the whole of his property is worth but $66.61; that his family consists of a feeble Wife, four children, one of whom is lame and unfit for much business and himself 57 years of age infirm and unable to do much labour.

It seems to your petitioner that a bare inspection of the papers already exhibited, would be sufficient to induce the Hon. Secretary to grant a pension certificate, but lest it should be thought that the evidence already exhibited is insufficient your petitioner has been induced to procure additional testimony of his circumstances, which is herewith communicated which as your petitioner humbly prays may be considered sufficient, if anything was wanting, & that your Honour will on a review of the premises grant him a pension certificate, as he firmly believes that it was the intention of Congress that Persons in his circumstances should be entitled there to.
September 4. 1829
Theophilus Hastings by Jeth Lee his Atty.

Theophilus Hastings

Schedule of the Estate of Theophilus Hastings of Hardwick in the County of Worcester and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Applicant for a Pension under the act of Congress of February March 4 th 1823
Real Estate — None.
Personal Estate.
  An old unfinished dwelling house, standing by sufferance on land of Seth and Daniel B. Hinckley valued at  $15.00    One large pine chest — .75  Two spinning wheels — 1.50    Two pine tables & a light stand — 1.25  1 pair flat-irons — .50    Two old pails & one cyder barrel .50  pine shovel & tongs — .67    Sundry articles of Iron Ware  Lot of old Books — 1.25    old, worn and injured } 3.45  one meat Barrel .75    Earthen and crockery ware — 1.75  one Desk not trimmed 4.00    three bottles — .25  Lot of carpenters & joiners    1 case drawers — 3.00  tools, many of them almost    half doz. old chairs — 1.50  useless and none of them worth    12.45  half their original cost, valued     together at — 6.36     30.03     12.45     Total $ 42.48  
We, the subscribers testify and say, that we have viewed the property contained in the above schedule shewn us by Theophilus Hastings, above named, as his property; and are of opinion that the sums set against the respective items are their true value.
Samuel Dexter Jr.
Joseph Stone
Worcester ss. April 12 th 1823 Personally appeared Samuel Dexter Jr. and Joseph Stone above named and made oath to the truth of the above statement by them subscribed Before me, William Butler Jus. Peace.
I certify that Samuel Dexter Jr. and Joseph Stone above named are disinterested and credible Witnesses. William Butler Jus Peace.

DECLARATION,
In order to be restored to the Pension List, under the Act of the 1st March, 1823.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
County of WORCESTER, ss.
ON this sixteenth day of April 1823, personally appeared in open Court, being a Court of Record for the County of Worcester, Theophilus Hastings resident in Hardwick in said County, aged sixty years, who, being first duly sworn, according to law, doth, on his oath, make the following Declaration, in order to obtain the provision made by the Acts of Congress, of the 18th March, 1818, and the 1st May, 1820, that he, the said Theophilus Hastings enlisted for the term of three years on the 1st day of March in the year 1781 in the State of Massachusetts in the Company commanded by Captain Warren, afterwards commanded by Miles in the Regiment commanded by Colonel John Brooks in the line of the State of Massachusetts on the Continental establishment; that he continued to serve in the said corps until Autumn 1783 when he was discharged from the said service, in New York in the State of New York ; that his name has been placed on the Pension List, and dropt therefrom on account of his property.
And, in pursuance of the Act of the 1st May, 1820, I do solemnly swear that I was a resident citizen of the United States, on the 18th day of March, 1818; and that I have not, since that time, by gift, sale, or in any manner, disposed of my property, or any part thereof, with intent thereby so to diminish it as to bring myself within the provisions of an Act of Congress, entitled "An Act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States, in the Revolutionary War," passed on the 18th day of March, 1818; and that I have not, nor has any person in trust for me, any property, or securities, contracts, or debts, due to me; nor have I any income other than what is contained in the Schedule hereto annexed, and by me
except a balance of $81 - found due me on a settlement of accounts with the Administrator of the estate of Daniel Mandell deceased, said estate is insolvent there having been demands allowed by the Commissioners to the amount of $1200.00 and the estate out of which the Administrator has to pay said demands & the expense of Administration amounts to about $80.00 and there is no doubt that the expense will amount to that sum so that I do not expect to receive a cent on account of said debt.

DECLARATION,
In order to be restored to the Pension List, under the Act of the 1st March, 1823.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
County of WORCESTER, ss.
ON this sixteenth day of April 1823, personally appeared in open Court, being a Court of Record for the County of Worcester , Theophilus Hastings resident in Hardwick in said County, aged sixty years, who, being first duly sworn, according to law, doth, on his oath, make the following Declaration, in order to obtain the provision made by the Acts of Congress, of the 18th March, 1818, and the 1st May, 1820, that he, the said Theophilus Hastings enlisted for the term of three years on the day of March in the year 1781 in the State of Massachusetts in the Company commanded by Captain Warren in the Regiment commanded by Colonel John Brooks in the line of the State of Massachusetts on the Continental establishment; that he continued to serve in the said corps until Autumn 1783 when he was discharged from the said service, in New York in the State of New York ; that his name has been placed on the Pension List, and dropt therefrom on account of his property.
And, in pursuance of the Act of the 1st May, 1820, I do solemnly swear that I was a resident citizen of the United States, on the 18th day of March, 1818; and that I have not, since that time, by gift, sale, or in any manner, disposed of my property, or any part thereof, with intent thereby so to diminish it as to bring myself within the provisions of an Act of Congress, entitled "An Act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States, in the Revolutionary War," passed on the 18th day of March, 1818; and that I have not, nor has any person in trust for me, any property, or securities, contracts, or debts, due to me; nor have I any income other than what is contained in the Schedule hereto annexed, and by me subscribed. That, since the exhibition of my first Schedule, the following changes have been made in my property: — I have disposed of some small articles to support my family, and others have by age and use become of less value which are all the changes that have taken place.  Theophilus Hastings
Sworn to, and declared, on the sixteenth day of April A. D. 1823, before the Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court of said Commonwealth for said County of Worcester . Attest Abijah Bigelow Clerk
I, Abijah Bigelow Clerk of the Court aforesaid, do hereby certify, that it appears, to the satisfaction of the said Court, that the said Theophilus Hastings did serve in the Revolutionary War, as stated in the preceding Declaration, against the common enemy, for the term of nine months, under one engagement, on the Continental establishment. I also certify, that the foregoing oath, and the Schedule thereto annexed, are truly copied from the Records of the said Court; and I do further certify, that it is the opinion of the said Court, that the total amount in value of the property exhibited in the aforesaid Schedule is forty two dollars and forty eight cents.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said Court, on this sixteenth day of April 1823.
Abijah Bigelow Clerk.

9579
Betsey Hastings Mass.
Act 7. July 38
m 85 d 42.
adm?
2 yrs pri
80 $
18 Mar 1818
7874
Isa M Barton Worcester Mass.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Worcester ss.
I, Charles G. Prentiss, Register of the Court of Probate for the County of Worcester, do certify, that Israel Winton is the Judge of said Court, duly commissioned and qualified and that his signatures to the papers hereto annexed, are genuine.
I further certify, that Joseph Knowlton, Symon Sibley and Joseph Stone, were, at the dates of the several certificates by them respectively signed on the papers hereto annexed, Jus- tices of the Peace in and for said County, duly commissioned and qualified and that their signatures to said certificates are genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and the seal of said Court, this sixth day of September, one thousand, eight hundred and forty-three.
Chas. G. Prentiss, Register

I Theophilus Hastings of Hardwick, being duly sworn do testify & say that towards the close of the year 1780 (the precise time I am now unable to state) I enlisted at Brookfield Massachusetts, to do duty in the Regiment of Col. John Brooks, for the term of three years, as a soldier in the revolutionary war - from Brookfield I went to Springfield Mass. where I was engaged for several weeks in guarding the publick stores at that place - from Springfield I marched to Hardwick, & from s d Hardwick I went as one of the Guard to Genl. Warner who had charge of a large amount of money for paying off troops, to Philadelphia - from Philadelphia I went to West Point & joined Col. John Brooks' Regiment, in which Regiment I continued as a soldier, (2 most of the time in the company of Capt. William Mills) till our Regiment was marched to the City of New York by Genl. Knox, at the time that city was evacuated, on the 25 th of November 1783 - from the time s d City was evacuated I was engaged in rendering assistance to Col. Brooks, in taking charge of the publick stores &c, till January 1784.
In the manner, & at the places mentioned above, I served out my said term of three years, & served several months after the expiration of said term -
I obtained my discharge from the hand of Col. Brooks at the City of New York - That discharge I have since sent to the office of the Secretary of War at Washington, where I suppose it now is - the precise times at which I was engaged at different places, owing to the great length of time which has since intervened, I am unable now more particularly to recollect -
Theophilus Hastings
Worcester ss. May 11. 1833 Theophilus Hastings above named personally appeared, & made oath that the above statement by him subscribed is true -
(A)
Before me Jos. Knox Jus. Peace

Extract from the Records of the town of Gloucester, taken from Book 3 d page 266 of said Records. Said page is headed with the running title, "Record of Deaths continued."
"Eighteen hundred & forty two October thirty first. Mr. Theophilus Hastings, Revolutionary Pensioner, (bachelor) 87. Jan. 22 "
State of Massachusetts } Town Clerk's Office Worcester County - } Gloucester Aug 18 th 1843.
I certify that the foregoing is a true copy of the Record as from the Record of Deaths in said office now in my custody as town clerk of said Gloucester with the exception of the date which is expressed on the Record in fair legible figures, as follows - "1842, Oct 31 st ."
Attest Joseph Stone, Clerk of said town of Gloucester
I Joseph Stone, above named depose and say, that I hold the office of Clerk in the county town & State aforesaid, and that the above is a true extract from the Record of Deaths in said town of Gloucester with the exception above named as certified by me. Gloucester } Joseph Stone, Clerk of said Town of Gloucester Aug 18 th 1843 }
Subscribed and sworn to the day and year above written
Before me Lyman Sibley Justice of Peace
I further certify that the Deponent is a person entitled to full credit.
Lyman Sibley Jus. of Peace

Joseph Stone of Haverhill in the County of Essex do hereby certify that I was well acquainted with the late Theophilus Hastings of this town and with his handwriting, having often perused his former papers for him. The signature to the paper accompanying the declaration of Mrs. Mary P. Hastings, widow (A) is in his own proper handwriting. He died in Haverhill last October and since Mrs. Hastings has now been married since his death, but is now his widow.
Joseph Stone
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Essex ss. August 20. 1842. I swear to my said deponent who is known to me as a man of truth.
Before me
Sam M. Batchelder

5029
Botsey Hastings
P 80
C. G. Prentiss Worcester Mass

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Worcester County ss. On this eleventh day of December A.D. 1843 personally appeared before the subscriber, one of the Justices of the Peace within and for the County of Worcester
Betsey Hastings a resident of Hardwick in said County, aged seventy five years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the Act of Congress passed on the 3d of March, 1843, granting Pensions to Widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary War.
That she is the widow of Theophilus Hastings who was a private in the Army of the Revolution, and served as stated by her in her Declaration made in order to obtain a Pension under the act of July 7. 1838. now on file in the War Department - and that she received a Pension under the act of July 7. 1838 of $80 - per annum. She further declares that she is still a Widow.
Attest Wm Frost
Betsey her X mark
Hastings
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written, before me - and I certify that the said Betsey Hastings is personally known to me.
Joseph Stone - Justice of the Peace
Note. The Pension certificate, granted to Mrs. Hastings under the act of July 7 th 1838 was dated Nov. 25 th 1843. - J.S.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
WORCESTER COUNTY, ss.
I, JOSEPH G. KENDALL, Clerk of the Judicial Courts for the County and Commonwealth aforesaid, do hereby certify, That Joseph Stone, Esquire,
is a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, duly commissioned and qualified; and that his signature to the certificate, on the deposition of  Declaration of Betsey Hastings, hereunto annexed, is genuine, and said
Stone was such Justice, on the eleventh day of December current.
Given under my hand, and the Seal of said County, this twentieth day of December, in the year one thousand eight hundred and forty three.
Joseph G. Kendall (Clerk)

We Nathaniel Jones Simon Metcalf the Silas Berris & Nath o Houghton Resides Selectmen of the town of Barre in the county of Worcester & State of Massachusetts, testify & say that it appears by a bill on file hereof, that said town of Barre was charged by the town of Worcester in 1813 for the board & support of Theophilus Hastings of Hardwick the sum of $88.87 which sum appears to have been paid by said town of Barre, we further say that said Hastings from the information we have we believe said Hastings is poor & needs the assistance of his country. The said Jones, & Houghton particularly testifying that they have been personally acquainted with said Hastings & his circumstances for a great number of years & know him to be poor &
Nath o Jones Simon Metcalf Nath o Houghton Silas Berris
Worcester Sept. 20 1820 Personally appeared the above named Nathaniel Jones Simon Metcalf Nath o Houghton & Silas Berris & made oath that the above affidavit by them subscribed is true
Before me
Abner Dyer Jr. P.D.

We the subscribers, Selectmen of the Town of Haverwick, testify and say, that we are well acquainted with the pecuniary circumstances of Theophilus Hastings, applicant for a pension under the act of Congress of May 1 st 1820, and that we feel ourselves induced in justice to said Hastings, to state, that in consequence of age and infirmities he is extremely straitened in his means of procuring a livelihood, — that some of his children are still dependent on him for support, and that none of them are able to contribute to his assistance, — that although the proud spirit of a Revolutionary Veteran has hitherto induced him to submit to the evils necessarily attendant on such a state of poverty as he experiences, rather than apply to "Public Charity" for support; yet the subscribers believe that he has found it necessary to depend on the "private Charity" of his more wealthy revolutionary associates, and others, for assistance; — that we make this statement disinterestedly as he has no legal claim to a support in the Town of Haverwick; — and that he must shortly, considering the growing infirmities of age, if the private assistance of his friends should fail him, be compelled to depend on "Public Charity" for support unless his Country extends her hand to his relief. —
Samuel Billing Ezra Ruggles Joseph Stone Selectmen of Haverwick. —
Worcester, fs. Sept. 2 d 1820
Personally appeared Samuel Billing, Ezra Ruggles, and Joseph Stone above named, and made oath to the truth of the above statement by them subscribed. Before me Daniel Ruggles, Juv. O'Pear
I certify that Samuel Billing, Ezra Ruggles, and Joseph Stone above named are disinterested and credible Witnesses Daniel Ruggles, Juv. O'Pear

We the Subscribers testify and say, that we have viewed the articles contained in the schedule of the property of Theophilus Hastings, applicant for a pension under the act of Congress of May 8 th 1820, and are of opinion that the sums set against the respective items are their true value. The subscribers are sensible that the names of the articles contained in said schedule may convey the idea of a higher value than the sums respectively affixed to the several articles amount to. — But the premises of the said Hastings have been so often ransacked by the Sheriff's officers for the purpose of securing debts that nothing is left worth attaching. — The subscribers on mature deliberation are fully persuaded that the sum of sixty six dollars and sixty one cents is the full amount that any person could afford to pay for the property contained in said schedule. —
Ezra Ruggles Joseph Stone. —
Worcester ss, Sept. 2 d . 1820.
Personally appeared Ezra Ruggles and Joseph Stone, above named and made oath to the truth of the above statement by them subscribed. — Before me Daniel Ruggles, Jus. O'Keane
I certify that Ezra Ruggles and Joseph Stone above named are disinterested and credible witnesses. —
Daniel Ruggles Jus. O'Keane

Examine the letter I heard it, with the runner to one side the house
Wm. Lewis Douglas Chamber of Congress Washington.
free

Warwick March 12 th 1820. ~
Dear Sir,
It probably often happens, that men, whose talents have procured them elevated public Stations, are troubled with numerous applications of one kind or other, which appear to those who receive them extremely frivolous: and it is not without some suspicion that the subject to which I ask your attention may be thought  to merit such a classification, that I now presume to address you.
As Mr. Theophilus Hastings, an aged revolutionary soldier, and one of my neighbours received a pension for his military services, under the law of March 1818. After the passing of the Supplementary pension law of May 1820 he finished himself in some expense to forward an additional application, and in a few weeks was informed, through the medium of the public papers, that his name was stricken from the Pension Roll.
I assisted another of our Selectmen, in making out a schedule as required by the act of 1820, which I am satisfied included every thing that ought was required by the terms of that law, and the Total amount of the property thus inventoried fell something short of 67 Dollars, if I do not greatly mistake, and I affirm upon my honour that this sum was more than I would have given for the in this vicinity wretched & miserable articles which the list contained. As some others, in much easier circumstances, received their pensions under the law of 1820, Hastings was induced to petition the Hon. Secretary of War for a review of his case, but to this application no official answer has been returned. ~ After the publication of the Attorney General's opinion, which incapacitated the Secretary of War from replacing on the Pension roll, any names that had been stricken from it, I advised Hastings to rest contented as he could, and give up his expectations. But he replied that he had to persevere through a number of campaigns before the establishment of independence, and that he now intended in his old age to

persevere in his efforts to procure some recompence. ~ In pursuance of this resolution, he visited his old Colonel, our present Governor, who told him he thought no difficulty existed, which would prevent his pension being restored, and promised to write himself to the Hon. Secretary of War, with whom he was personally acquainted.
The promise of assistance from such a quarter revived the expectation of our old soldier, but although  since several months have elapsed he has received no information to alleviate the pressure of his Poverty.
I have been thus particular in stating this case to you Sir, from a desire which Hastings feels, to know with some degree of certainty the worst of his case. He assures me that the depressing sensation of "hope deferred," — of painful suspense, and disappointed expectation is more severe, — is harder to be borne, than the absolute certainty that his country had shut her purse against him and left him to be carried from his present humble home, to be supported as a Pauper in a neighbouring Town. ~
If you could find leisure from your more important concerns, to communicate to me such information on this subject as you possess or can easily procure, it would be most gratefully received. ~
You will accept my thanks for a copy of the report on the subject of recrudescence, Many of the facts it contained were new to me, and all of us was highly interesting. ~
With a hope that in due time you may be safely returned to your family and Friends, I subscribe myself.
your friend & servant Joseph Stone. ~
Hon. Lewis Bigelow

Hardwick, Mass.
August 3 rd 1843
Joseph Stone In behalf of the widow of Theophilus Hastings for a pension
S. 243
10 August 1843 Pension Office
Hon. Josiah G. Spencer Secretary of War Washington D.C.
for
8781 M rs 1843 Theop d Hastings Aug 4 1843

Wadsworth Mrs. Elizabeth Hays Aug 4 1843
Ansom 1878
fr.
Hon. John C. Spencer Secretary of War Washington, D.C.
S. 243 10 August 1843 Pension Office
Wadsworth, Mrs. August 30 1843 Beth Stone Baltimore who widow of Benjamin Hays for a pension

Hardwick Worcester County Mass. Aug 3 d 1843
Hon. J. C. Spencer,
Sir, In behalf of an aged & destitute Widow of a Revolutionary Soldier I would make the following statement and enquiry.
A pension was granted to Theophilus Hastings of this town, for his services as a Soldier in the Army of the Revolution, of eight dollars per month. The certificate was dated Oct. 15 th 1818 and numbered 3647. ~ Said Hastings died on the 31 st day of October 1842 and the above named pension has been paid up to the time of his death. He was not married till after his term of service in the Army expired.
Will you have the goodness to state whether the Act of March 3 d 1843, or indeed, any other existing law will entitle the Widow of said Hastings to a pension. It would appear that the letter of the Act of March last confers a pension on none but those who received a "five year pension," but Mrs. Hastings, who is poor & dependant as well as aged & helpless, together with some of her Friends, hope for a more liberal construction. If we could have obtained satisfactory information by consulting legal counsel, the department would not have been troubled with this.
Please direct a reply to D ct . J. Stone, Hardwick, Worcester County, Mass. Yours respectfully, Jos. Stone -

NORFOLK SEPT 7 1881
FREE
Hon. William Lee Key.
No 36 Key.
Washington
Sept 1881.
City —

Bare Sept 1820
Dear Sir
Theophilus Hastings, a Revolution arg Soldier & an acquaintance of mine, having failed of obtaining a pension under the late act of Congress, has applied to me for assistance
I had doubts what course to pursue to obtain his pension; but have on the whole thought advisable to send a petition to the War Dept requesting a review of the subject upon additional evidence. Am also trouble you with with a line & the papers in the case.
I have been acquainted with Hastings from my youth, & know him to be a very poor man; and to live comfortably need assistance from some source, & have no doubt his statement is correct. It seems to me that there must have been some misapprehension in the examination of his papers. If you, Sir will have the goodness to pay attention to the subject in such manner & you may think best, you will confer a favour on an old Soldier and believe me your most obedt & humble
Then Wm Lee Esq.
Sir. Seth Lee

P.S. Uncle Joshua is yet alive & well
If any more widows should be wanting in Hastings' here I should like to receive a line from you

Ala? June 11 th 1835
Hon. Lewis Cass Secretary of War Washington D.C.

Recd 8 June
Boston June 3d 1835
Sir When Mr. Theophilus Hastings of Sandwich Worcester Co. Mass. procured his pension he forwarded the Certificate of his discharge from the Army (given him by Genl. Root) to your office -
As he has authorized me to receive fifty Dollars for "his" during three years in the Army. I find a copy of said Certificate is required. Will you do me a favor by forwarding a copy? (Can J. C. H. Home & Co.)
Respectfully Yours
Chas. Merrill
Hon. Lewis Cass Washington

Dr. Crump
6 July 1835.
Pension Office
Hardwick
Mass.
Ans? July 8 th 1835-
(no such paper on file.)
ans

Recd 4 July
Hardwick June 30. 1835
Hon. Lewis Cap.
Sir:
I am now wishing to obtain from the State of Mass s the amount due me as one of the "Three years men" in the Revolutionary war. To do this, it is required that I should produce my discharge, or some evidence equivalent to it. My original discharge was lost many years ago, but for the purpose of getting my name restored to the Pension List, under the law of March 1823, in the spring of that year, I procured from the late Gov. John Brooks (who was Colonel of the Regt. in which I served) a certificate of my services & discharge - That certificate I forwarded to your Department, where I suppose it yet remains. I now wish, for the purposes I have mentioned, to procure that certificate, or an attested copy of it. Will you have the goodness to forward it by mail, as soon as convenient, addressed to Joseph Knox Esq.

Hardwick, Ms. - The certificate of my restoration to the pension list is signed by S. L. Edwards, & dated May 26, 1823, I took effect on the 16 th of Ap r . next preceding. I give these dates not knowing but they may aid you in finding the certificate of Gov. Brooks -
With much esteem
Hon. Sec. of War Washington
Yr. friend & Servt. friend Theophilus Hastings -

BOUNTY LAND WARRANT RECORD CARD*
NAME Hastings, Timothy GRADE Private LINE Massachusetts
WARRANT NUMBER 4316 ACREAGE 100 ISSUED Aug. 8, 1793 To Samuel Tinney
*The information concerning the issuance of warrants carded on this form is found in volumes 2 to 4 of "Land Warrants Issued Prior to 1800" which are registers of bounty land warrants issued to non-commissioned officers and privates under congressional resolutions of September 16, 1776, and subsequent dates. Other records relative to the applications for warrants appear to have been destroyed in the War Department fire of November 9, 1800. Information concerning warrants surrendered to the Federal Government is to be found in General Land Office records in The National Archives.