Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 251, Abram A Hopper, New Jersey

SERVICE
NUMBER
New Jersey
Hopker, Abram A.
W 251
Elizabeth
B.L.Wt 91124-160-55
CONTENTS

6458
New Jersey Elizabeth Hopper widow of Abram A. Hopper who served in the Revolutionary Capt Hopper N. J. war, as a Private.
Increased from $30 Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 80 — Dollars 00
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
Certificate of Pension issued the 10 th day of October 1840. and sent to
A. Van Buskirk
Present
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under February 2, 1848, Page 166. Vol. 1

304.607 ait mar 3/58
Dec 22/59 Dec 19/59
Elizabeth 1811  Kopper  wid.
Abram A. Kopper wid Abram A. Private
Revolutionary war aw: 160 ac, Dec. 21/59
Heir M  Bluffton M
sq ad 2 Feb 18-64 58
Abram Van Buskirk Esq Present
E. H. Butts
Vol No 2 page 98

Act of 1836 On N. J.
Elizabeth Hopper widow of Abraham A. Hopper Deceased of N. J.
For a Pension
I think this cause has been heretofore filed & that this may be additional evidence - as I am not fully informed as to the cause, these papers having been sent me -
Filed by Ja s G. Austin atty
Present

MARRIAGES.
Abraham de Hoop & Elizabeth Van Horn was married the 18 th Day of August 1793

18. Elizabeth Van Horn was born the 1 st day of January 1773 Wife of Abraham Hopper

79 ]
RECORD.
DEATHS.
Maria Van Houten Dyed the 11 th Day of September 1815
His Wife

[ 6
FAMILY
DEATHS.
Abraham A. Hooper died the 10 th day of February 1831 — Age 72 years 12 months and 28 days — — — — —

State of New Jersey } Bergen County ss }
On the ninth day of November 1854 Personally appeared before me the Subscriber a Justice of the peace in and for the said County duly authorized by Law to administer Oaths Elizabeth Hopper of Hoppertown County of Bergen aged eighty two years and upwards who being duly sworn according to Law deponeth and saith and makes the following declaration as follows that the papers herunto annexed purporting to be a Family record was taken from the old Family Bible of Abraham A Hopper deceased this deponents Husband and now and always in her possession and that the said papers were always regarded as the Family record of her and her said husband
Sworn and subscribed before me this ninth day of November 1854 Abr m J Ackerman Justice of the peace
her Elizabeth x Hopper mark
State of New Jersey } Bergen County ss }
I Abr m J Ackerman a Justice of the peace in and for said County do hereby Certify that Elizabeth Hopper who took and subscribed her name to the foregoing affidavit is well known to me that she is a credible person that her statements in the foregoing affidavit are entitled to Credit that I am disinterested and not concerned in its prosecution dated November 9 th 1854
Abr m J Ackerman Justice of the peace

State of New Jersey
Bergen County ss. I Gilbert H Ackerson Clerk of the County of Bergen and Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in and for said County do certify that the Deposition of Abraham J Ackerson before whom the foregoing Deposition of Abraham J Ackerson was taken and to which he has subscribed his Name was at the time of the doing thereof a true copy of the same in and for said County duly Commissioned and sworn and fully authorized to take the same and further that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of said Deponent and truly believe that his signature to said deposition is genuine
Witness my hand and seal of said County and Court this Tenth day of November A.D. 1854. Gilbert H Ackerson Clerk

State of New Jersey } 99
County of Bergen. On this ninth day of November A.D. 1834. personally appeared Before me the Subscriber a Justice of the Peace in and for said County. Duly authorized by Law to administer Oaths Elizabeth Hopper a resident of the Town of Hoppertown County of Bergen S. State of N.J. aged eighty two years or upwards who being first Duly Sworn according to Law doth on her Oath make the following Declaration in order to obtain the Benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress granting Pension to Certain widows. That she is the Widow of Abraham A. Hopper Deed of Hoppertown Bergen County S. State aforesaid her first & only Husband who was a Revet in the Revolutionary War. & as she has been informed & truly believes was Mustered in the American army in Bergen County S. State of N.J. & that he served in the field & in Garrison under Capt. John Hopper & others and that for more Proof of her Husband's Service in the Revolutionary War as well as her & her said Husband's Marriage & Births of their Children. She more fully relies upon the Proof which she may be able to obtain & annex hereto & trusts that the Department will grant her such Pension as the Proof & the merits of the Case shall warrant. She further declares that she was married to the said Abraham A. Hopper on the 18 th Day of August A.D. 1793 & that her Husband the aforesaid Abraham A. Hopper. Died on the eighteenth Day of February A.D. 1821 and that she was not Married to him prior to his leaving the Service but the Marriage took place previous to the first of January Seventeen Hundred & Ninety four & that at the time above stated she further Swears that she is now a widow & that she nor her said Husband ever before made any application for a Pension. before this Present Also that she has no Documentary evidence in support of the Claim at present. & knows not of any & also that she hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a Pension or annuity. Except the present & further more that his Service was performed in the militia of N.J.

The word tenth & the word February written over, & the figure attuned 1831 and the erasure over eight, all done before execution
Sworn and subscribed before me This ninth day of November 1854 Abr m J. Ackerman Justice of the Peace
her Elizabeth X. Hopper mark
State of New Jersey.
County of Bergen. { ss } I, Abr m J. Ackerman Justice of the Peace — in & for said County do hereby certify that I am well acquainted with Elizabeth Hopper who took & subscribed her name to the foregoing that she is a credible Person & her statements are the foregoing are entitled to full credit & belief. Also that I am disinterested in the above Claim & are not concerned in its Prosecution. and also the said Elizabeth Hopper being unable to attend in open Court on account of old age and bodily infirmity
Abr m J. Ackerman Justice of the Peace
State of New Jersey
Bergen County ss I, Albert G. Scherson Clerk of the County of Bergen and Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in and for said County do certify that Abraham J. Ackerman before whom the foregoing Declaration of Elizabeth Hopper was made and his certificate thereto, was at the time of the doing thereof a justice of the peace in and for said County duly commissioned and sworn and fully authorized to take the same and further that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of said Justice and very believe that his signature to said declaration and certificate is genuine
Witness My hand and seal of said County And Court this tenth day of November AD 1854.
Albert G. Scherson Clerk
Declaration, 1854

State of New Jersey ss
County of Bergen In this Ninth Day of November 1854 Personally appeared Before me the Subscriber a Justice of the peace - duly authorized by law to administer Oaths Stephen Lutterhoff a resident of the Town of New Baradades Bergen County aged eighty six years & upwards who being Duly Sworn according to Law Deposed & said that he was well acquainted with Abraham Hopper from his youth up & lived a neighbor of him in the time of the Revolution and well remembers the time that he Entered the American Army as a Volunteer at Hopper town in Bergen County N.J. This was some time in the Month of July 1778 that he was Mustered into the Army & Dut all the duty of a Soldier & was under a Soldiers obligations from that time until some time in December 1780. under Capt. Hopper & others. as a privet. & I well remember the Battle he was engaged in at Hoff town, where the Army was quartered; with the British in which the Commanding officer was killed & a number wounded this Battle with the British was in 1780. in the Spring. his Marches in the Army were in the vicinity of Hopper town in said County & between that place & N.Y. for the protection of the inhabitants from the incursions of the enemy & the time the Service was perform he was not employed in any other pursuit to my knowledge. & Further More that I am Disinterested in the above Matter. - - - - -
the word Hopper erased before execution Sworn and subscribed before me this ninth day of November 1854 Abrm J. Ackerman Justice of the Peace.
Stephen Lutterhoff mark
State of New Jersey ss
County of Bergen
I. Abrm J. Ackerman a Justice of the peace in & for said County do hereby Certify that I am well acquainted with Stephen Lutterhoff who took & subscribed his name to the foregoing affidavit that he is a credible Person & his Statements in the fore- going are Entitled to full Credit and Belief.

Further more I am Disinterested in above Case And not Concerned in its Prosecution.
Alvin J Ackerman Justice of the peace
State of New Jersey
Bergen County ss. I Gilbert G Atkinson Clerk of the County
of Bergen And Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in And for said County do hereby certify that before me Alvin J Ackerman before whom the foregoing deposition of Stephen Lestins was taken was at the time of the doing thereof a justice of the peace in And for said County duly Commissioned And sworn And fully Authorized to take the same, And further that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of said justice And hereby believe that his signature to said deposition is genuine
Witness my hand And Seal of said County And Court this Tenth day of November A.D. 1854 Gilbert G Atkinson Clerk
Encl

804607 BOUNTY LAND CLAIM.
Act of March 3, 1855.
ORIGINAL CLAIM FOR LAND WARRANT.
Mrs. Elizabeth Hopper
WIDOW OF Abraham Hopper of New Jersey
Mrs Hopper is on Revolutionary Pension
Abraham Van Buskirk Residence,
Att'y for Claimant,
WASHINGTON, D. C.
INSTRUCTIONS.
 1. Claimant's name.  2. Soldier's name.  3. Here specify the service as follows: "in the company commanded by Captain _____ " or "a _____ " commanded by Col. _____ in the war of _____ " or as the case may be. on board of the United States ship _____ regiment of _____  4. Enlisted, volunteered, was drafted, or shipped  5. Add "that she has never before made application for Bounty Land," or "that she made application for Bounty Land," for said service, and her claim was rejected or suspended.  6. The claimant will here state that no public or private record of her marriage exists, or can be obtained, if such is the case. If there is a County, Town, or Church record of the marriage, a duly certified copy of such record must be sent. If there is no public, but a private or family record containing the marriage or the births of children, a copy of such record must be sent, and the magistrate will certify that it is a correct copy of the original. Parol evidence of the marriage or of co-habitation, is not admissible until the absence of record evidence is accounted for. If the testimony of persons who were present at the marriage can be produced, it should be sent, and if such testimony can not be had, the Claimant will so state. This form will not alone be sufficient for the claim, without amendment or additional evidence of the marriage, unless the declarant is unable to present either public or private record evidence of or the testimony of persons who were present.  7. Claimant's signature.  8. Witnesses' signatures.  9. Magistrates' signatures. 

State of New Jersey } ss. Passaic COUNTY, }
I, Silas D. Gause Clerk of the County Court in and for the County and State above named, do hereby certify that Cornelius G. Van Riper Esq., before whom the foregoing affidavits were made, and who has thereunto signed his name, was at the time of so doing a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State above named, duly commissioned and sworn, that all his official acts as such are entitled to full faith and credit, and that his signature thereto is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto signed my name and affixed my official seal this 14 day of December 185 9
S. D. Gause att.
Forwarded by _____

Declaration to be made by a Widow who has never received Bounty Land.
STATE OF New Jersey } ss : Passaic COUNTY, }
On this 14 th day of December 185 9 , before me, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State above named personally appeared (1) Elizabeth Hopper aged 87 — years, a resident of Acquackunk , who being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the widow of (2) Abraham A. Hopper who was a (3) a Private in the Revolutionary War in the cause of a pension for his service that he (4) resided at Hopptown Boro in the State of New Jersey on or about the — day of —, 18 —, and continued in actual service fourteen days, and was honorably discharged at — on or about the — day of 18 —, and (5)
She further states that she was married to the said (2) Abraham A. Hopper at Bergen County — on the — day of —, A. D. — by one that her name, before her said marriage was, Elizabeth Van Horn that her said husband died at Bergen County on the 10 th day of February , 1831 or 32, and she is now a widow. (6) and in the receipt of a Revolutionary Pension on the New Jersey Pension Roll
She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the Bounty Land to which she is entitled under the act of March 3, 1855, never having received Bounty Land or knowing that she is entitled except for the above service; and she hereby constitutes Abraham Van Horn Washington, D. C., her attorney to prosecute her claim and procure her warrant. Hereby authorizing and empowering her said attorney to obtain from the proper authorities at Washington city, or elsewhere, certified copies of any Army or Navy records or documents in which her said husband's services may be recorded, and to procure any or all other evidence that may be necessary to establish her claim as fully as if personally present; and revoking and countermanding all former authority that may have been given for the above specified purpose. and for the proper proof of her claim against the papers for a Revolutionary pension.
Elizabeth Hopper mark
Sworn to, subscribed and acknowledged before me the day and year first above written; and on the same day personally came before me A. J. Ackerman , a resident of Bergen County County, in the State above named, and Corn. A. Hopper , a resident of Passaic County, in said State, who being duly sworn, declare that they are personally acquainted with (1) Elizabeth Hopper widow of (2) Abraham A. Hopper who has made and subscribed the foregoing declaration; that they were personally acquainted with (2) Abraham A. Hopper and his wife during the lifetime of the former, and know that they lived together as man and wife, and were so reputed; and they believe that the husband of the said (1) Elizabeth Hopper was the identical person who performed the service mentioned in the above declaration; that the above named (2) Abraham A. Hopper is now dead, and the said (1) Elizabeth Hopper is now a widow. And they further swear that they are disinterested in this claim.
A. J. Ackerman (8) Corn. A. Hopper
Sworn to and subscribed before me, and I certify that I am not interested in the claim or concerned in its prosecution, and I further certify that I know the above affiants to be credible witnesses, and the claimant is the person she represents herself to be.
(9) Corn. A. Van Horn Justice of the Peace

251
Rev WIDOW, &c.
No. 251
Elizabeth Hopfen Widow
Abraham Hopfen Poiv. Rev. War.
Act: Feb. 2d. 1848.
Sex: — Vol. A , Page 340
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Elizabeth Boppes wid. of Alvan he A. —
Wishes to be made of the enclosed papers for Court on Rev. Pms of M of Nep?.

No.
Elizabeth Ropkin widow of Abram A. Passaic Co. N. Jersey Increase from $30. to $80.
Allowed - Act July 7 - 1838 so, at rate of $80 per annum, commencing from 11 th March 1836 - excepting 2 years, & de- ducting the amount here- before paid.
Certificate to be sent to A. Van Brunt Park.

9718 New Jersey Elizabeth Hopper, widow of Abram A. who was a private, in the Revolutionary war.
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 30 Dollars 00 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843.
Certificate of Pension issued the 12 th day of Dec r 1839 and sent to
S. G. Dodge Present.
[Acts of March 3, 1843, and June 17, 1844.]
Recorded in Book A. Vol. 1. Page 154.

New Jersey Elizabeth Hopper widow of Miriam A. who was a Private, in the Revolution.
Increased from $30- 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 10 th day of October 1846 and sent to
[Acts of March 3, 1843, and June 17, 1844.]
Recorded in Book H. Vol. 1. Page 153 154

✓
95, 12H
160 Acres.

11.883
New Jersey
Elizabeth Hoopfer. widow of Abram A. Hoopfer. who died on the _____ of _____ in the State of _____ who was a private, in the _____ commanded by Captain _____ of the _____ commanded by _____ in the Revolution line for
Increased from $30-00
Inscribed on the Roll of Trenton at the rate of 80. Dollars 100. Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.
Certificate of Pension issued the 10 th day of October 1860 and sent to
Arrears to the 4th of Semi-annual allowance ending
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act July 7, 1838. }
Recorded by G. N. Getty Clerk, Book H Vol. _____ Page 142

11.883.
New Jersey.
Elizabeth Hopper widow of Abram A. Hopper. who died on the _____ of _____ in the State of _____ who was a private in the _____ commanded by Captain _____ of the _____ commanded by _____ in the Revolutionary war. time for
Inscribed on the Roll of Trenton at the rate of 30. Dollars _____ Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.
Certificate of Pension issued the 12 th day of December 1839 and sent to
J. G. Dodge Arrears to the 4th of Semi-annual allowance ending Present.
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act July 7, 1838. }
Recorded by J. P. Letty Clerk. Book _____ Vol. _____ Page 142

6.458
New Jersey
Elizabeth Hopper widow of Abram A.
who served in the Revolutionary
war; as a private
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 30 Dollars 00
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
Certificate of Pension issued the 12 th day of Dec r 1859. and sent to
S. G. Dodge Present
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 2, 1848, Page 166 Vol. 4
Let. enclosing copy of letter encapsulating of Supt. of N. J. Ins. to Hon. J. F. Potter, Col. Comt. Sur. Penn. M. A. Mar. 24/60
Let. S. G. Peacock Apr. 19/60 to Hon. J. F. Potter, Col. Comt. Sur. of Reps. - April 26/60. A. Von Buren Secy. - Aug. 27/60
Copies of Papers sent Gen. Rev. Rev. Rev. & others April 30/60.
304607

Article of agreement made between Elizabeth Hopper and Abram Van Buskirk with regard to Presenting a Claim to Congress for a Pension for Services of her husband, is as follows that the Said Abram Van Buskirk is to Prosecute Said Claim -- at his own Expense also before the -- Pension Dept. -- dated November 9 th 1854 } A. V. Buskirk in presence of } her Abr m J. Ackerman. } Elizabeth X Hopper mark

G. C. Whiting
Conn.
Sir
Having employed Stephen G. Dodge Esq. to assist me in the prosecution of the Claim of Elizabeth Hopper of N.Y. The Com. will please reorganize their accounts.
Washington City D.C.
29 th Nov. 1859
L. A. Pease

St. Joseph's Male Orphan Asylum,
Washington, June
185
Sir:
You are hereby notified to attend a Meeting of the Trustees of St. Joseph's Male Orphan Asylum, at
on _____ evening, the _____ at _____ o'clock.
Yeo.

Brief in the case of Elizabeth Hopper, widow of Abram A. Hopper and
Rapids County and State of New Jersey -
Alt o act July 7. 1838 & subsequent acts amendatory thereto
Claim, ( "original" or "for increase.")
Proof exhibited, (if original.)
Is it documentary, traditional, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
The former allowance in this case was made upon parole testimony. - The service proved by record not amounting to six months. - That testimony proves two years service or fully as nine months service. -
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
Increase allowed for two years at the rate of $80. per annum, commencing the 4 th March 1836. deducting 2 years, and also the amount which has been heretofore paid.
A. Van Buskirk, Esq. Present.
Name and residence of Agent
M. H. Woodley
Examining Clerk.

Pension Office, } Sept. 24. th 1860.
Sir:
In reply to your letter of 31 st ult o , enclosing additional evidence in the pension case of Elizabeth Hopper, widow of Abraham N. Hopper, dec d , I have to state that the point, presenting in my last to you under date of Augt. 21 st for not then considering it whilst a petition for the same purpose was pending before Congress, is now waived; and that upon a minute examination of all the evidence (previously filed & on which the claim was allowed at the rate of $30- 00 per annum, the office adheres to its former decision as not only just, but liberal. — The term "neighborhood service" do not, perhaps, express the idea of the service character of the service so designating, with sufficient clearness. I will endeavor to be more explicit.
Peculiar service is such as was rendered under some express authority of law, continental or

State. But service rendered by the militia upon the mere impulse of the moment or of patriotism, with- out the sanction of such a law of the state or some recognition of it by the state as payment, is not of that description which entitles a claimant.
Under this explanation, therefore, the additional evidence, as well as all the parole evidence, you have filed does not bring the claimant within its meaning, so as to justify the increase of pension now sought. Admit, as is contended, that the station at which the service is alleged to have been rendered was important & subject to frequent invasion of the enemy, & that her husband actually rendered continuous service but without authority of law, and under officers not re- quired by law to serve continuously, still such service could not be considered as embraced within the act of June 7. 1832 as pensionable.
The only record evidence in this case is that of her certificate from the Secretary of the State of N.

Jersey, showing that the sum of £317. 6- was paid to Abraham A. Ropper through Peter Wilson - a commis- sioner appointed under by the authority of the Legislature for the county of Bergen; & that the sum of £17. 9. 0. was paid to Capt. John Ropper "in full for bounty due his company of 23 men," & of £48. 0. 0. "for service un- -der Col. Dey." (Bergen). And allowing that these two last sums paid to Capt. Ropper were intended for his company, & Abraham A. Ropper was one of them, it would show only about £3. each, - which added to the sum of £317. 6. would still be less than a service of nine months; but as it appeared to the satisfaction of the office that the different terms of service combined - as indicated by the partial evidence amounted to as much as nine months, the liberal allowance of that time was made. -
A. Van Benschoten, Esq. Present. [Signature]

Wish the Occas n of pay- ments does not occur 6 mo - but the Official as admitted G. Mr - whom to parole testimony - That testimony of good for G is good for 2 years - & I don't think the argu- ment against the char- acter of the Service - Can be maintained, or that it would be right to do so. I think we are committed by the former action of the Of- fice to an allowance of 2 yrs senior at GCOB

Letter of Com: of Pen Elizabeth Hopper —

Pension Office-
March 17, 1858-
Sir:
In compliance with your request of the 11 th inst. I have the honor to enclose the papers filed in this Office in the case of Elizabeth Hopper widow of Abram A. of N.J.
The claim is asserted under the act of 7 July 1838, granting pensions to the widows of Revolutionary Soldiers who served six months and over - It has been suspended for the reason that the service was not established by record evidence and the parol proof filed in its support did not establish the duration of service with any sufficient degree of certainty - The witnesses allege a general fact that he was in service, but they fail to indicate any reasons why they think the service was for any given period.
In reference to the cases of Elijah Stevens & Mary Dusenberry it will be necessary for you to inform this Office from whence the applications were made, and, if convenient, to state the acts under which the claims are asserted -
Hon. H. M. Shaw H. Rep.
I am, Sir,
Very Resp ly Your obed t Serv t
Malcolm Commissioner

[Faint, mirrored handwritten text, likely bleed-through from the reverse side of the card.]

Brief in the case of Elizabeth Hopper, widow of Abram A. Bergen County and State of New Jersey. act 7 th July, 1838.
Claim, ("original," or "for increase")
Proof exhibited, (if original.)
Is it documentary, traditional, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance. Certificate of Secy. of State of New Jersey. Shows that Abm A. Hopper was in Service from Bergen Co. N.J. One Rev. P. S. Hopper testified he was raised with Hopper, served with him, & knew him intimately to his death. He swears to Hopper's service in 1778, 79, & 80 in N.J. State troops, & subsequently in the Militia. His details, very clearly show his distinct recollection of the service, its character, the events which transpired. His testimony coincides with the traditional history of the times to which he refers. is correct in his statements in relation to the Officer, under whom Hopper served, their residence & the duration of their service is evidently of her, clear & distinct of excellent probity. The service established by this witness could not be less than 12 18 months. Another Contemporary with the deceased Hopper confirms the statement of the first witness in relation to the service. Abm Hopper personally, in service, before he entered to his death. (If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what? is positive in relation to the facts he states, is certified to be of sound mind & a very truthful person. A. Hopper witness who knew Hopper in the service at different times, corroborate the statements of his contemporaries. I find the Hopper family were numerous & ardent patriots in the war. They were all residents of Bergen Co. N.J. & were much in service. It is a historical fact that the Militia of Bergen Co. was actively engaged in the war & were not arranged or patrolled as the Militia of other Colonies. It was the scene of Abm's conflict throughout the war.
Recent evidence of marriage is filed. The date thereof was, 18 th Aug: 1793. Soldier died in 1831. His widowhood and identity is clearly established by recent & parol evidence, Admit Act 7 th July. 38. Ucts 43 & 44 & 2 nd 736/48. at $30. per An.
Stephen G. Dodge Esq.
Name and residence of Agent Present,
A. B. Smith
Examining Clerk.

In the case of Elizabeth Hoppler, widow of Abraham, (or Abram A.) of N. J. for pension, the certificate filed by me since the return of the papers from the Ho. of Reps. shows that Capt. John Hoppler and Col. Devy Dey, (sometimes pronounced Die) held command under Brig. Genl. Winds during the time within which the witnesses testify that the claimant's late husband served under them, and also at and about the place specified. The Washington papers, as well as the published correspondence of Washington, and the general history of the country, show that Paramus, or Hopplertown, was an important headquarters and depot of army stores, &c.
These important confirmations of the parol testimony, already on file puts a new aspect upon the case, and, taken together with the other certificate of the Sec. of State of N. Jersey, in my judgment warrant the allowance of the claim.
The additional affidavit of the claimant now filed, with the usual proofs of identity, as I think makes the proofs complete.
S. G. Dodge
Washington, Dec r 18 th , 1857

Washington City, D.C. 21 st August 1860
Genl. C. Whiting, Esq. Commr. of Pensions Sir
I herewith enclose the affidavits of Stephen Watkins & Stephen Westervelt, to be used in the case of Elizabeth Hoppe widow of Abram Hoppe, a Pensioner, on the New Jersey Roll under act 7 th July 1838. It is very apparent from the very nature of the case & the situation or condition of things in the County in which Abram Hoppe served, that his service was strictly military in its character & of sufficient duration to give his widow a full pension for the service of her husband. I therefore respectfully request that the increase of $80 per annum be granted her as the evidence fully proves & sustains the claim for this amount.
I am my Respectful Yours
A. Van Buren

Elizabeth Hopper.
Wid. of Abram. A. —
W. L. — d. 2 nd Feb. 1848

Washington, D. C. 22 nd March 60
Genl C. Whiting Esq. Sir
I herewith enclose additional evidence in the case of Elizabeth Hopper widow of — a Pensioner on the New Jersey Roll under act 1838 for the purpose of an increase of pension. The interest of the pension of those soldiers who served in that portion of the State men in service nearly all the time and in view of which the Claimant thinks it should be admitted at $80. per ann.
I am my Respt
Yours Sir
A. H. Pugh

County of Passaic State of New Jersey. }
On this seventh day of December 1859 before me the subscriber a Judge of the  Peace in & for the county aforesaid personally appeared Elizabeth Hopper who makes solemn oath that she is the identical Elizabeth Hopper widow of Abram Hopper deceased & who has been for some time past applying to the Pension Office for a Revolutionary pension, & makes this statement respectfully requesting the Office to grant her such pension for the Revolutionary service of said husband.
Attest: Cogn J Hopper
Elizabeth Hopper Mark
B. M. Cleveland Subscribed and sworn to this seventh
day of Dec 1859
State of New Jersey }
B. M. Cleveland
County of Passaic On this seventh day of December 1859 before the subscriber a Judge of the  Peace in & for the county aforesaid personally appeared, Robert C. Hopper ----- and, Garrett C. Hopper both residents of said county & known to me who depose & say that they are well acquainted with the above named Elizabeth Hopper & know her to be the person she represents herself to be. & further more that they are reputable Persons - - -
B. M. Cleveland

State of New Jersey Passaic County ss: I Silas D. Sanford Clerk of said County do hereby certify that Benjamin N. Cleveland Esq before whom the foregoing affidavits were made was at the time of signing the same a Judge of the Superior Court of Common Pleas of said County duly commissioned sworn and qualified to take such af- fidavits. and that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Benjamin N. Cleveland and believe his signature to the said affidavits to be genuine.
In Witness Whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and the Seal of said County at Paterson this 7 th day of De- cember A.D. 1859.
S. D. Sanford Clerk

6 Affidavit of, Elizabeth Hopper. Per
Elizabeth Hopper wid Hiram A. N. E. Dec-1838
Letter, charged to S. A. Pugh Nov. 14 th 1859-
S. A. Pugh, recd for A. Van Santkirk W. C. C. D.C.

no. 15.512 Elizabeth Hopper. wid:
Abram a.
M. J.
Admiral Creek 7" July. 1848 ad. 3" March. 1843 17" from. 1844 & 2" Feb. 1848. at 30. p.m. Am. Department two Trans from 4" inch: 41 to 4" inch. 43.
30 1859.94 150 1548.34 126.0
1130 330 15 345
Arch. S. J. G. Dodge. Present.

additional affidavit of Stephen Westervelt in the Case of Elizabeth Hopper of New Jersey
9
Mr Westervelt - Says - he never made these statements - That he knows no one of the name of Hopper who could have been in the Rev. War - He seems to have a vivid recollection of the battle at the Black House near Bully Ferry - was then living near & at English Neighborhood - heard the guns & saw soldiers retreating - one was overtaken & refused quarter & shot at or near his father's house.

State of New Jersey. } County of Bergen }
On this 13 th day of February 1840. before me the subscriber a Justice of the Peace in & for the County aforesaid personally appeared Stephen Westervelt- who being by me duly sworn deposes & says that- he is about 93 years of age, that- he was well acq- -uainted with Adam H. Hopper from the earliest period of his recollection; That- they were near neighbours of said Hopper before, during, & since the Revolutionary War, & knew him until his death many years ago; that- he also knew his widow who is now a pensioner; that- he well recollects the service of said Hopper during the War, & knows he was in service several years. He well recollects the service in 1778 beginning in the Spring of that- year, & is fully satisfied that- he was out- as much as 6 months. He also remembers that- he was in service as much as 9 or 10 months in 1779 & about- 8 or 9 months in 1780. Being young at that time & not having anything to engage his attention except the War his memory is very distinct in reference thereto, & knows that- all the able bodied men in the neighbourhood were out- on some duty or other, as the British were so near & the trouble from the Tories so great, that- from

the year 1778 they were nearly all the time under arms either as regular soldiers or on some party to protect the inhabitants, or military stores, or to repel the Tories; The whole population were more properly under arms all the time for these reasons, & while a soldier might not have been on strict military duty, all the time his service was more properly a continuous one than otherwise, & he is fully satisfied that from 1778 to 80 late in the year he must have served about 2 or 3 years, that the British came out of New York & burned the property of Captain Hopper, (brother of said Abram) All the stores of the U.S. Army were placed in custody at Hopertown and consequently required a great amount of vigilance on the part of those in the neighbourhood to protect it from the destruction of the British, & being a River County so near New York there was scarcely any respite from military duty & further deponent saith not.
I swear to and subscribed
before me this 13 th Day of February 1860 (of the year) J. H. Ackerman Justice
his mark Stephen Westcott
Seal
State of New Jersey } ss I, H. J. Ackerman a County of Bergen } Justice of the Peace in & for the County aforesaid

I hereby Certify that Stephen Westervelt who took and subscribed his name to the foregoing affidavit is well known to me to be that he is a Credible Person and that his Statements are Entitled to full Credit & belief and further more I am not interested in the Claim & are not Concerned in its Prosecution -
Abm J Ackerman Justice of the Peace
State of New Jersey Bergen County ss I G. G. Ackerman Clerk of the County of Bergen and Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in and for said County do hereby that Abraham J Ackerman before whom the foregoing deposition of Stephen Westervelt was taken and to which he has subscribed his name was at the time of the doing thereof a Justice of the Peace in and for said County duly commissioned and sworn and fully authorized to take the same and further that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of said Justice and truly believe that his signature to the same is genuine Witness my hand and seal of said County and Court this 13 th day of February AD 1860 G. G. Ackerman Clerk

County of Washington } District of Columbia }
On this 29 th day of Novm 1859. before me the subscriber a Justice of the Peace in & for the County aforesaid personally appeared Abram Van Buren (now a resident of this City) who being by me duly sworn deposes & says that he is in the receipt of a letter from Peter H. Blount of the 17 th inst. in which, from the in the store of New Jersey, in reply to an inquiry as to whether Mrs Elizabeth Hopper widow of Abraham Hopper was alive or not, in which his correspondent says that she is alive & well & that deponent believes that said Elizabeth is now alive & that said letter comes from a near neighbor of said Elizabeth Hopper & further deponent saith not other than that said Eliza- beth is the same person who is now applying to the Pension office for a Revolutionary Pension.
Attest M. H. Johnson
A. Van Buren
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 29 th day of November, A.D. 1859. M. H. Johnson, P.P. Clerk Justice of the Peace

Elizabeth Hopper widow of Abraham H. N. J.
Oct 1838
Brief for claimant

Elizabeth Hopper, Widow of Abraham A. Hopper, of N. Jersey - sus. act 1838.
The reasons for the continued suspension of this claim are expressed in the Commissioner's letter to Hon Mr Shaw, of March 17, 1858. and are 1 st want of Record evidence of the service - and 2 o That the parol testimony is uncertain as to the duration of the service - and that the witnesses have not afforded any sufficient data for ascertaining its duration.
The refusal of the Office to allow this claim upon secondary evidence until after the sources of record evidence should be explored and exhausted, is justified upon the soundest principles of law and policy.
This objection is obviated by the certificate from the Secretary of State of N. Jersey dated the 11 th inst. which shows that under the act of N. J. of Dec r 20. 1783 - after the war for settlement and payment of all sums then due to the militia - consisting almost exclusively of balances, generally of small sums - (as the miscellaneous rolls show) a payment was made for Hopper's services, of £ 3. 17. 6.

As to the second objection:
Stephen Lakin testified that Hopper commenced service as a soldier in July 1778 and continued to do duty as a soldier (in Capt Hoppers Co) etc until December 1780. - and that Hopper was in the a "battle" at Hopperstown.
Peter Van Bruskirk - a pensioner - made affidavit in this city , in Dec r 1887.
That Abraham A. Hopper commenced service under his brother, Capt John A. Hopper - about July 1778. and was in active service until January '79. etc again from March '79 to Nov r '79. and some time in 1780 -
This witness describes the service with great particularity and intelligence - giving numerous incidents. the names of Hoppers officers, etc.
He describes Hoppers company as State troops. And this may account for the apparent continuity of their service.
Garnett Bell - testified to the same service and to the fact that Hoppers company was engaged in guarding stores as well as scouting. and this adds to the proof that the service was continuous between the periods mentioned.

I ask that the Affidavits may be carefully considered - as they are evidently intelligent - and their testimony shows that the Hopper family seven brothers were noted for their zeal and patriotism.
A glance at the map will show that Hoppestown or " Paramus " was a point of great military importance, and that no zealous and brave whig could have lived there from 1778 to 1780 without being in service a great part of his time.
The marriage is proved by record evidence.
S. G. Dodge
Washington Nov 21/59

Petition of Elizabeth Hopper Widow of Abram H. Hopper a revolutionary soldier, praying to be allowed a pension.
January 25. 1858 Referred to the Committee on Revolutionary Pensions
Mr. Wortendyke
Mr. Wortendyke

The State of New Jersey Passaic County.
To the Honorable the Senate & House of Representatives of the United States,
The Petition of Elizabeth Hopper widow of Abram A. Hopper, a soldier in the war of the revolution respectfully, pleads,
That her said said husband was one of eight brothers, who served for more than five years in said war. That he was a private in the service and served gallantly & was honorably discharged That he never applied for the benefit of the pension laws and died many years since.
That after his death your petitioner his widow, (who was married to the said Abram A. Hopper before the end of said war) after his death applied for the pension to which she was entitled, to the Commission of pensions, & being unable to particularize the services he specially rendered, & by a rigidity, & as your petitioner believes, unnecessary & unjust degree of proof, she has been denied her pension. By reference to the petition & the proof accompanying it on file in the office of the Commission of pensions, reference being had thereto, your Honorable Body will find she has legally, & equitably proved her services in said war & still is denied her pension. Wherefore
Your petitioner prays that your Honorable Body will take her case into considera- -tion & grant her relief, by authorizing & directing the Secretary of the Interior to place her name upon the roll of Revolutionary pensions of New Jersey

as the Widow of a revolving soldier to whom the act passed on the 4 th day of July A.D. 1830.
And your petition as in duly bound will ever pray &c.
Elizabeth the Rapp M rs H

N o 167.
Received Morristown 21 st November 1778 of Joseph Lewis seven- teen pounds nine shillings 6 pence. in full of bounty due to my Com- pany of 23 men of Col. Dey's Reg t . at Acquackanonk under com- -mand of Brig. Genl. Minda from the 23 rd Sep r . to 12 th October last for which I have this day given duplicate receipts.
£17. 9. 0
John Hopper. Captain
State of New Jersey.
I Thomas Allison Secretary of State of the State of New Jersey do hereby certify that the foregoing is true copy of a receipt given by Capt. John Hopper for Bounty &c as taken from and compared with the original on file in my Office. And I do further certify that the pay rolls of Joseph Lewis, Pay-master for the Counties of Sussex Morris, & Bergen, in Book K. of Auditor's Accounts. p. 63. show a payment of £48. to Capt. Hopper of Dey's Bergen Reg t . on the 12 th October 1778. Serving at Acquackanonk under Brig. Minda. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my Seal of Office at Trenton this first day of June. Eighteen hundred and fifty three.
Thos Allison Secretary of State

Elizabeth Hopper. wid: Abraham A. Hopper
Papers in Chas. off: H: Rep: Ph. Appl. ash
38
Wid: Chas. H: Rep: Nov. 14 - for papers
To: Dr. Milton or Senders
Ch: to Col Anderson She will Ch: to Me. Nov. 14/59

Notes given by the Commissioners of the several Counties of the State of New Jersey for Militia service during the Revolutionary War.
   NO. OF CERTIF. DATE. SIGNED BY PAYABLE TO AMOUNT.     69 Oct. 15. 1784 Peter Wilson Abner A. Hopper $ 3. 17. 6  
STATE OF NEW JERSEY :
I, THOMAS S. ALLISON, Secretary of State of the State of New Jersey, do hereby certify, that the foregoing is a true abstract from a Book, headed as above, as taken from, and compared with the original, now remaining in my office.— And I do further certify, that Peter Wilson was, by an Act passed by the Legislature of this State, December 20, 1783, entitled, "An Act to procure an estimate of the sums due to the Militia and Troops who have been raised for the defence of the frontiers of the State, and to provide for the settlement of the same," appointed a Commissioner for the County of Bergen for the purpose of settling and adjusting the Pay-rolls of the Militia and Troops of this State, as aforesaid, and also for signing and delivering out to each and every person a note for the payment of what may be justly due; and that the records of
this office furnish no evidence that said service was of no longer duration than the payment would seem to indicate
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed my seal of office, at Trenton, in said State, this eleventh day of November A. D. one thousand eight hundred and fifty- nine .
 Secretary of State.

Elizabeth, Widow of Abraham A. Stephen
Deposition of Peter V. Burleigh Gault Bell
N. J. Nov. 1838
5✓
Abraham Van Buskirk Washington City D. C.

The District of Columbia } County & City of Washington }
Personally appeared before me Thomas L. Williams, a justice of the peace, in & for said County, Peter Van Rensselaer, who being duly sworn says that he is now Ninety six years of age, and resides in the City of Washington but was born and formerly resided in Harrington, Bergen County, State of New Jersey. Deponent avers that his health is good, and his memory sound especially as to events that transpired in the neighborhood where he resided at the time of the revolution, & with which he was then conversant. As proof of the health and strength of deponent, he would  avares state that, having been on a visit to his family and friends in New Jersey the past Autumn, he arrived in this City last Thursday (Thanksgiving day) having travelled from Patterson, New Jersey to this City, in one continuous journey, and during all of one night without sleep, & without stopping, other than the usual delays at the several rail road depots and that he has not suffered any visible inconvenience from the journey.
Deponent avers that he heretofore gave his deposition of the services of Abraham A. Hopper, in the application of his widow Elizabeth and gave it in accordance with the deposition presented to him at the time all of which is true so far as it goes. That on his late visit to New Jersey he has seen the said Elizabeth, widow of the said Abraham A. Hopper who is yet alive & living at Patterson, or was living there the last Wednesday day before Thanksgiving day. That upon conversing with the few of his old companions, and inspecting his old family papers he has been enabled to collect many of the facts & dates of events that occurred in the days of the revolution, & which for some time past, tho' not forgotten are dim in his memory. Deponent avers that he personally knew the late Abraham A. Hopper, late of Bergen County, New Jersey, & knows his widow the said Elizabeth A. Hopper, & has known her since her marriage with him, & knew her before her marriage when she was Elizabeth Van Horn . That deponent & said Abraham A. Hopper were raised boys together in Bergen County, in the same neigh-

hood, & lived neighbors in manhood, and until the said Abraham A. departed this life in the Spring of 1831. perhaps the winter before. It was cold weather. Deponent distinctly remembers that previous to October 1779 the said Abraham A. Hopper was a private in the Company of State Troops commanded by his brother Captain John A. Hopper since deceased. Deponent remembers that in the summer of 1778 - about the beginning of July - the said Abraham A. joined the company aforesaid and went into active service at Hopewell, where there were stored supplies, arms & ammunition for the use of the army. Hopewell and the neighborhood were for a considerable time after, a depot for stores for the American Army - and where from time to time afterwards considerable bodies of American troops were quartered & encamped. Deponent remembers this from the fact that members of the officers were from time to time quartered at the house & farm of deponent's father, & among them, Gen. Wayne, Gen. De Kalb, Gen. Gates, Col. Lee & May, - Deponent also avers that this depot of stores was for some time guarded by troops under the command of Major Boyle, all of whom deponent personally knew.
Deponent personally knows that Abraham A. Hopper performed duty from the beginning of July 1778 until January following, principally scouting the country between New Jersey & New York, protecting it from the inroads of the British. In January his company returned to Hopewell & went into Winter quarters, most of the neighboring companies went home, Abraham A. among them, living as he did, just there at Hopewell, but often deponent has seen him back at camp after.
Deponent further avers, that in March 1779, the company of Capt. Hopper was again called out, & went into service, and deponent saw the said Abraham A. among them performing the same service, the other members of the company performing, mustering, answering to their arms, & drilling, and then from time to time leaving camp in scouting parties, or was alleged to guard still the country bordering on New York, the enemy being at this time on Long Island, N.Y. and who made frequent & sudden inroads into New Jersey, plundering, burning, & robbing, & killing the inhabitants.

and it required constant vigilance to repel them, and watch the Tories. The said Abram A Hopper served from March to November 1779.
Deponent himself this year entered the service, on the first of October (1779) and was in garrison when Captain John A Hopper's company was discharged in November. Deponent was a private in the company commanded by Captain Wallinder. There were six brothers of the Hoppers, and all of them in the service, & they were notorious for their zeal & hatred to the enemy, especially the Tories. They became so obnoxious, that on one occasion, taking advantage of a temporary visit home from duty, one of the brothers, Jonathan Hopper, was surprised at night & murdered in his bed, along side of his wife - bayoneted to death.
Deponent further states, that in the early part of April 1780 the said Abram A Hopper was again on active duty, his brother Capt. John A Hopper having been again called out. Deponent knows this from the fact, that before day on Sunday morning about the middle of the month, a party of British from Long Island, suddenly attacked our troops at Hopptown, or Peramun as it was sometime called, then in command of Major Biles, mortally wounded him, killed one of the brothers Hopper, burned the dwelling and store house of Captain Hopper. It was a complete surprise, though the enemy were repulsed, & were pursued by Captain Hopper's company to Bergen Point about 18 miles. The company continued in active service all the year until December, when it was discharged, or rather went into winter quarters most of the men going home living as they did around in the neighborhood, but yet were considered as on duty whenever required or called for.
Deponent believes this was the last regular tour of duty performed by Captain John A Hopper's company, or by the said Abram A Hopper, though he was known as a minute man, & considered as in for the war.
General Winder was the General, and Colonel Deyo was the Colonel of Captain Hopper's regiment, and Joseph Lewis paid off the troops. Deponent knew them all personally. Deponent served under Gen. De Kalb till he went South, when in a few months after , news was brought us that he

was killed at Camden in South Carolina.
Deponent avers that he is not related to the said Abram A. Hopper, nor to his widow, Elizabeth, & has no interest in her application for a pension. Deponent personally knows when the said Elizabeth was a girl before her marriage with the said Abram A. Hopper. Her maiden name was Van Horn. She, and Abram A. were married in 1793. They lived together, & were universally known as husband & wife, until he died. We were all near neighbors.
Deponent is a Revolutionary Pensioner now on the rolls.
Sworn to & subscribed before me this 7 th day of December 1857
Thos J Williams J.P.
Peter Van Buren

Application of Elizabeth, Widow of Abram A. Hoppen Deposition of Peter V. Bushuk

The State of Pennsylvania } City & County of Philadelphia }
Be it known that on this 10 th day of December A.D. 1867, personally appeared before me, the undersigned, Alderman of the City of Philadelphia, in the State of Pennsylvania, & ex officio a Justice of the peace in & for said City. Garrett Bell, who being duly sworn says that he is Ninety four years of age & past, & was born in Bergen County, New Jersey, & is now a resident of the City of Philadelphia. That he is in good health, & under no infirm- ity but his old age, that his memory of events that transpired in the revolutionary war is as fresh & good as when he witnessed them, that is the principal events, and the persons engaged in them. Deponent knew personally Abram J. Hopkin & his seven brothers personally. He is now dead, but at the time of the revolution he re- sided near Hopkinton, Bergen County, New Jersey. Was also personally acquainted with his brother Capt. John A. Hopkin who commanded a Company of State troops at that time. Deponent at the time of the revolution sometimes worked for old John Hopkin the father of Abram J. Hopkin, especially in herding cattle.
Deponent remembers well the first time Abram J. Hopkin entered into his brother's company. It was the Summer the British evacuated Philadelphia, in the year 1778. He entered the Company commanded by his brother John A. Hopkin who had raised a company of volunteers, and was called into service of the State. They rendez- voused at Hopkinton, and acted as guard to the stores, arms & ammunition stored at Hopkinton. But the company was often absent scouting & guarding the country on the line of New York & Pennsylvania. Colonel Day commanded Capt. Hopkin's regiment, and General William Wind was the General. I knew them both person- ally. In the first tour, Abram J. Hopkin remained away from home for some a while, until Christmas, when he came home, & the company was garrisoned at Hopkinton & he with them every day, tho' he slept home. Two or three months afterwards, he was called out again, & I saw him mustered in his company at Hopkinton. He remained again on duty, except occasionally at home for a day or so on leave, until the Winter following, as the British were in possession of New York & very troublesome. He returned home in the Winter of 1779 to winter quarters. He remained there all winter, but every day at the Capt's where Major Bayle, was in com- mand of a body of Continentals. About the beginning of April 1780, the company

was again called into garrison, & Alvan A. H. joined them. A week or so after, the British surprised Major Boyle, & after a short battle of two hours or more, he was killed, & old Mr. H. H. & Captain H. H. house & mill set on fire by the enemy & destroyed. Alvan saw them burn, was awoken by the noise of the fight as the attack was before day on the 16 th of April, Sunday morning, 1780. Alvan A. was on guard after the battle, until Christmas following, & it was his last tour of service.
Forrest Bell
Be it known that on the day & year hereinbefore written, personally appeared before the undersigned, an officer duly authorized to administer oaths, in and for the County & State aforesaid, the within named affiant, who being duly sworn deposeth & saith, that the matters & things set forth in the within affidavit or statement are correctly & truly as forth & averred. That the affiant is a person of good character & entitled to full credit. Given under my hand & seal the day & year aforesaid.
Williams Ogle  Alderman Ex Officio Justice of the Peace
House of Representatives lib I am familiar with Alder Williams Ogle of Phila. & with his signature. I believe the foregoing to be his signature & in his handwriting. Washington Jan 4, 1870 He is an Alderman & ex officio Justice of the Peace. Henry M. Phillips
Encl

Elizabeth, widow of Barrett Hoppel - Deposition of Peter V. Ruckert 2

Additional  affidavit  of  Stephen Lutkins
Stephen Lutkins before him with his grand daughter's husband - John Purcell - Very deaf & no teeth - so that it is not easy to talk with him - This is in Washington township - Says he will be 93 in Oct. next - That he knew Mrs. Van Buskirk & also Abraham & Peter - That he always heard & believe but does not know that Abram was in the war - Knows he came homesick - Peter was older was too young - as was he - But  then had to Peter was nearly but not quite so old as he was - about the same age He talks somewhat by him say differently he was impressed upon in the drawing up of them -
A Van Buskirk Over 10 Aug 20
Says he knew from reputation that Call John Hopper was in the war, but knows nothing as to Abraham A. Hopper - Recollects the killing of the dog - & the shooting of Mary. Biles - Does not know Elizabeth Hopper - Stephen Westervelt & Barden, the J. P. might be writing about the age of Westervelt - about the same - difference probably but this was merely their opinion - It is difficult to tell the age of persons from their appearance only To look at Westervelt he ap- pears quite old, but when you see him around might his conversation there a strong contrast with his - G. C. W.

State of New Jersey
Bergen County ss }
Personally appeared before me the Subscriber a Justice of the peace in and for said County, on this 18 th day of August 1860 Stephen Luthkins of Bergen Co. who being duly sworn on his oath saith that he is the same Stephen Luthkins who testified in the case of Elizabeth Hopper widow of Abraham Hopper of New Jersey he now further states that the service performed by the said Abraham Hopper was not a neighbourhood service but was a service rendered under regularly organized Commissioned State Officers such as Genl Wayne, Genl Gates Baron Kalb & Col, Lee. the whole was under the control of these men and were under the military discipline having to answer to roll call & muster and that no part of the service in the Army was more a part of the military organization than that in which Abraham Hopper served — Captain Hopper was a Commissioned officer & also Col. Day and all were liable to be tried by Court Martial as this deponent always understood, the whole of the service of said Hopper as he virily believes was rendered under the Laws of New Jersey. and was sanctioned by the Rules of War. This deponent well remembers the burning of Hoppertown — the same day a valuable dog belonging to his Father was shot by the British on their march up — about 1 1/2 miles below said place. he well remembers the enemy being drove back by the Militia regiment and the Continental Troops The regular organized Militia under Command of Capt. Hopper. under whom the said Abraham Hopper did Military duty drove the British back to the City of New York

Bergen County At that time extended as far as Jersey City (now Hudson Co) and the British were continually Robbing and plundering the Inhab- -itants, he well remembers how his mother buried her silver spoons. finger rings &c. to avoid them being taken by the enemy - So that the Militia of our County were almost in service continually throughout the war. The next day after the burning of Hopptown Major Boyl. was shot -
Sworn and subscribed
before me this 17 th Aug 1860
Abraham Ackerman Justice of the peace
Stephen his Luthins mark
State of New Jersey
Bergen County ss. I G. A. G. A. Ackerman clerk of the County of Bergen and
clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in and for said County do certify that Abraham Ackerman before whom the foregoing deposition of Stephen Luthins was taken was at the time of the doing thereof and still is a justice of the peace in and for said County duly commissioned and sworn and fully authorized to take the same and further that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of said justice and truly believe that his signature to the same is genuine
Witness my hand and seal of said County and Court this 18 th day of August A.D. 1860 G. A. Ackerman clerk

The Evidence of Abner Van Buskirk of Ont. Co. N.Y.
103 ✓

STATE OF NEW-YORK,
COUNTY OF ONTARIO, } ss.
I, JOHN J. LYON, Clerk of the County Court in and for the County and State above mentioned, do hereby certify that Henry C. Swift whose genuine signature appears above, is, and was at the time of signing the same, a Justice of the Peace in and for the county and State aforesaid, duly commissioned and sworn; that all his official acts as such are entitled to full faith and credit; and that the aforesaid county court is a court of record, having general jurisdiction.
Given under my hand and seal of office, at Canandaigua, this 18 day of April 1855.
John J. Lyon Clerk
_____ _____ _____ _____ _____

Affidavit.
State of New York. } County of Ontario. ss }
On this 17 th day of April 1855: personally appeared before me the Subscriber a justice of the peace in & for Said County duly authorized by Law to Administer Oaths Abraham Van Buskirk a resident of the town of Phelps. Ontario County State of New York. aged fifty six years & upwards who being duly sworn according to law doth on his oath with the depose and say that he is well acquainted with Elizabeth Hoopsee widow of Abraham Hoopsee. decd. of N.Y. & that I. was present at the time the Said Elizabeth made application for a Pension at her House and saw her make her mark on the application. & saw it acknowledged, by the affuse Abraham J. Schuman. on the 9 th of November. 1854. at her House & also that the Said Elizabeth is still his widow. ) That I that I disinterested in the above matter, & that I am not concerned in the above Said matter & that I
Abraham Van Buskirk
State of New York. } County of Ontario. ss }
I, Hy C Swift a justice of the Peace in & for Said County of Ontario State of New York do hereby certify that I. am well acquainted with Abraham Van Buskirk who took & subscribed his name to the foregoing affidavit that he is a person of good Moral Character and his Statements are entitled to full Credit & belief. & also that I. am disinterested in the above matter of Pension & are not concerned in its prosecution
Hy C Swift J.P.

State of New Jersey } Bergen County ss } On this twenty Second day of February 1855 Personally appeared before me the subscriber a Justice of the peace in and for said County duly authorized by Law to administer oaths Abraham J Ackerman a resident of the Township of Hohokus Bergen County State of New Jersey aged forty six years & upwards who being duly sworn doth on his oath depose and say that he is well acquainted with Elizabeth Hopper only widow of Abraham Hopper of Bergen County N.J. And that I was present at the time the said Elizabeth made application for a pension at her house and saw her make her mark on the application and that I am well acquainted with the family and also believe that the said Abraham Hopper died in New Jersey as stated in her application of November 9 th 1854 and that the said Abraham Hopper was reputed and believed in the neighbourhood to have been a Revolu- tionary soldier and that the belief is general and no doubts have ever existed upon the subject to my knowledge and also that the said Elizabeth is still his widow Sworn and subscribed before } me this 22 nd day of February 1855 } Abraham J Ackerman Garret S. Demarest Justice of the peace
I State of New Jersey } I Garret S. Demarest a Justice County of Bergen ss } of the peace in and for said County of Bergen State of New Jersey do hereby certify that I am well acquainted

with Abraham J. Ackerman who took and subscribed his name to the foregoing affidavit that he is a person of good moral character and that his statements therein are entitled to full credit and belief & also that I am disin- terested in the above matter of pension and am not concerned in the same dated February 22 nd 1855
Garret T. Demarest Justice of the Peace
State of New Jersey Bergen County ss. I, Garret T. Schueler clerk of the County of Bergen and clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in and for said County do hereby certify that I, Garret T. Demarest before whom the foregoing deposition of Abraham J. Ackerman was taken and to which he has subscribed his name was at the time of the doing thereof a justice of the peace in and for said County duly commissioned and sworn and fully authorized to take the same and further that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of said further and truly believe that his signature to the said deposition and certificate is genuine
Witness my hand and seal of said County and about the 22 nd day of February A.D. 1855 Garret T. Schueler clerk

additional affidavit of Stephen Westcott
I read this affidavit to Mr Stephen Westcott, in presence of Mr Peter Willis & William Decker - both of whom heard Mr Westcott deny having made the same, and laugh at the idea of his professing to know the facts herein stated. H. C. W.
Bergen Co. Poor House July 15, 1861
Dr. Van Bus Kirk, Washington City & C.

State of New Jersey
County of Bergen. N. J. On this 18 th Day of August A.D. 1860. before me the Subscriber a justice of the Peace in and for the County. aforesaid personally appeared Stephen Westervelt & made oath that he is the same Steven Westervelt who testified in the case of Elizabeth Hopper, widow of Abraham H. Hopper of New Jersey he now further states the Service performed by the said Abram Hopper. was not a neighborhood Service but was a Service rendered under regularly organized Commissioned State officers . as much a part of the military organization of the Army at that time as any Service performed during the war that though the Service was under the State organization whenever the Continental officers such as Genl. Wayne. Genl. Gates Baron Kalkreuth or Col. Lee. were in the neighborhood. The whole was under the military control of these men & that they were under the strictest military discipline having to answer to roll Call & muster and that no part of the Service in the Army was more a part of the military organization than that in which Abram Hopper served. Captain Hopper was a regularly Commissioned. Capt. Col. Day also regularly Commissioned officer. and they were all liable to be tried by Court Martial for any disobedience of orders and that the whole of the Service of said Hopper. as he always understood & believed was rendered under the laws of New Jersey and was rendered over

by the rules of war and further deponent saith he well recollects the burning of Hopsepe town by the British in 1780. & the death of Col Boyle in the conflict with the British at that time and that the militia regiments as well as the Continental troops pursued the Enemy after the conflict & drove them back to New York - the said Abram being one of the regular organized militia men at that time under Capt Hopper in pursuit of the Enemy Bergen County being a river County opposite New York City the British were all most Continually making incursions into N.J. to Burn & plunder the inhabitants that the militia of that County were all most Continually in Service throughout the War
Sworn and Subscribed } before me this 17 th } Stephen his Westervelt August 1860 } mark R m J. Ackerman Justice of the peace

State of New Jersey
Bayonne County ss I Albert G. Atkinson clerk of the county of Bayonne and clerk of the court of common pleas in and for said county do certify that Abraham J. Schermerhorn before whom the foregoing deposition of Stephen Westervelt was taken was at the time of the doing thereof and there is a justice of the peace in and for said county duly commissioned and sworn and fully authorized to take the same and further that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of said justice and hereby believe that his signature to the same is genuine
Witness my hand and seal of said county and court this 18 th day of August AD 1860 G. H. Atkinson clerk

Washington City, DC 31 st Augt. 1860.
Gen. E. A. M c Kim Com d g Pension
Sir -
I herewith enclose in am d of my attorney's in the case of Elizabeth Hopkins & respectfully ask that the claim be taken up & the proper allow- ance of pension be made.
The additional affidavit filed by me a few days ago, shows conclu- sively that the service was a con- tinuous one, & that it was rendered under properly  commissioned officers of the State of New Jersey .
There can be no doubt of the fact, two full years service in the case & I have to request a certifi- cate accordingly.
I am my Resp t friend J. S. Van Buren

One the Room Rev Pension 22 nd April 1860
Sir, Will you have the kindness to furnish for examination by the Com tee copy of the affidavit of William Van Reusdael , filed in the case of Nancy H. Van Reusdael - also the papers in the case of Elizabeth Wippen- mire of Abraham Wippen - with order for rejection of application also the papers in the case of George Dearman of N.Y. with reasons for rejection -
Very truly
M c Clusky
M c Clusky Clerk
Genl. Mylroy Esq. for Chairman Law off Pension Washington D.C.