Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 5134, Luther Holcomb, Conn.

SERVICE
NUMBER
Conn.
Holcomb, Luther Sally
R. 3134
CONTENTS

Amended declaration
State of New York Chenango County ss.
Sutler Halcomb, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith that by reason of old age and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot state precisely the length of his different services, nor all his officers as full as appears desirable, but according to the best of his recollection he served not less than the periods mentioned below and in the following grades, viz:
3 mos.
For three months I served as a private in the Connecticut Troops, in a company of Capt. Noble Russell, Lieutenant John Ironbridge, Ensign James Clark. The regiment was under either Col. Hinkley, Col. Meigs, or Silliman.
6 mos.
For six months I served as a private in the Connecticut Troops, under Capt. Gaylord Husbelt, Lieutenant Peter Penfield, Benjamin Hickok Ensign, in Col. Chandler Regiment. He thinks it was Chandler Regiment but it may have been Silliman.
2 Yrs. 7 mos.
For two years and seven months I served as an Artificer in the Continental service at Danbury Connecticut under David Wood who was the overseer or Captain who had the control and direction of the artificers at that place and was the one who enlisted him. The col of the Regiment he does not positively know as he does not remember to have seen him. The Artificers never joined the Regiment until after the Battle of Danbury. He thinks the col was Colonel Saurle. For 2 months in the fall.

of 1777 I went, as stated in my declaration, to Saratoga and was there engaged - I returned to Danbury after it and continued at my work as Artificer - This was with the permission of Capt Wood - For the above services I claim a pension -
All my services above stated were in duly organized corps of military and I was not engaged in any civil employment during the whole of the above time
Subscribed and sworn to - before me this 19 th March 1834
Smith H. Purdy first judge of Chenango County Courts
Isaac H. Holcomb
State of New York Chenango County, ss
I hereby certify that Smith H. Purdy (before whom the preceding affidavit purports to have been sworn was at the date of the same the first Judge of said county, duly commissioned and qualified and that his signature to the preceding affidavit is his genuine handwriting
Witness my hand and the seal of said County this 19 th day of March 1834
J. B. Noble Dep. Clerk

State of New York Chautauqua County p 3
On this Thirteenth day of August, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, eight hundred and thirty two, personally appeared in open Court, before the Hon. Robert Morell, Vice Chancellor of the Sixth Circuit of the State of New York, at the residence of Chancery held at the residence of the Vice Chancellor, in the Town of Green, County of Chautauqua and State of New York, now sitting, Luther Holcomb a resident of the Town of Country in the County of Chautauqua and State of New York, aged eighty years this 28 th day of this present month, who being first duly sworn according to Law, doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress, passed June 7 th 1832. That he entered the service of the United States, under the following named officers and served as herein stated - That he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers and served as herein stated - That at the breaking out of the War of the Revolution he lived in the Town of Danbury, County of Fairfield & State of Connecticut. - On the month of December 1775. he enlisted for the term of three months, in a Company under Captain Noble Benedict, Lieut. John Shobridge, Ensign James Clark, in a regiment commanded by Colonel Meigs of Horse-neck, and were stationed in New York. They remained in New York until their time was out and were dismissed and he returned home to Danbury. In the summer of 1776, he enlisted in the State troops of Connecticut for the term of six months, in a Company under Captain Kayle Hubbard, Lieut. Peter Peabody, Ensign Benjamin Hickox, in a Regiment commanded by Colonel John Chandler, in the Brigade of Genl. Silliman. They went by water from Norwalk to New York. They were stationed in
3 months
6 months

and about the City for a month, and he then was exchanged by an agreement between Captain Hubbell and Captain Noble Burdick, for a Fifer from the Company of said Burdick. The day after the American Troops evacuated Long Island & the British took possession of it, he returned to the Company of Captain Hubbell and remained in that Company until the expiration of the time for which he enlisted. Soon after the evacuation of Long Island and at the time the British had landed upon York Island, the Brigade to which he belonged were ordered to Harlem Heights, to which place they accordingly went. From this place they retreated to White Plains - from White Plains they went to near West Point, after about two weeks they returned to North Castle and there remained until he was dismissed & he returned to Danbury.
artificers
In the month of January 1777. He enlisted as an artificer during the War at the time of his enlistment he lived in Danbury. That same week sent into that town to enlist a Company by Colonel Lamb, and to tarry there until they should be called into the regiment. He consequently remained there, working at his trade, which was making Wagon etc. He remained under the command of David Wood who was employed by Colonel Lamb, for the term of two years and nine months, at which time he became disabled from a wound in his knee by an army adze. - This time he was employed under the orders of David Wood, and while he lay unable to work his Comrades were called into the regiment and as he believes served during the War. He was not called, and consequently did not go. During the time he was under the Command of David Wood as an artificer and previous to his becoming disabled, and previous to the taking of at the time of Genl. Burgoyne. He obtained permission from Wood to join the army, and accordingly went with others.

They arrived at Bennington the day after the Battle at that place, and joined the Army at Bennington Heights, in the Company of Captain Shipman, Lieut: Ezra Heman, in the regiment Commanded by Colonel Cook. The day before the first Battle, he went with about three hundred with General Arnold, to near the Enemys Camp and took an Prisoner & returned to quarters. The next day they had an Engagement which lasted nearly all day, in which he received a slight wound. About a week after the first engagement he was one of a one hundred picked guard, and were sent to Reconnoitre the enemy & report their numbers, which they did. On their return they received orders from head quarters, to make an attack upon the enemy, which orders they obeyed, taking every possible advantage under cover of the Woods. They had fired twice upon them, when they were joined by Colonel Morgans Regiment of Infantry and Riflemen. An attack was immediately made and the Army under Burgoyne was completely routed. They retreated (Burgoyne & Army) into the Town of Saratoga, and they were ordered to follow them, and retard their march, and when that situation remained until the surrender of General Burgoyne. They received further orders to march to Albany, to which place they went and after a few days were dismissed & he returned to his former employment under David Root at Danbury & there remained until the misfortune of wounding himself as heretofore related. He has never received a written discharge from any part of his services and has no documentary proof of any part thereof. He knows of no person by whom he can prove any part of his services. He hereby relinquishes every Claim whatever to a pension or annuity, except the present

and declare that his name is not upon the Pension Roll of the agency of any State - Sworn & subscribed the day & year aforesaid - 3 Robt Monell Levi Chaplin
Luther Nelson
The following questions were propounded by the Court to the applicant -
First - When, and in what year were you born? - Ans - He was born in the Town of Old Windsor, Hartford County, State of Connecticut, the 12 th day of August 1752, at Old Windsor
Second - Have you any record of your age, and if so, where is it? Answer - His Birth is Registered in the town books of the Town of Old Windsor -
Third - When were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary War and where do you now live? -
Ans - He lived at the time he was called into service in the Town of Danbury, Fairfield County, State of Con- necticut. - Since the Revolutionary War he has lived in Danbury aforesaid - next at Winchester, (Conn.), from thence he removed to the Town of Country, County of Shenango, in which place he has lived about 27 years and now lives -
Fourth - How were you called into service; were you a draft? did you volunteer or were you a substitute; and if a substitute for whom? -
Answer - He volunteered for all the time he served. -
Fifth - State the names of some of the regular officers who were with the Troops when you served:

such Continental and Militia regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your service? -
Ans - The Regular Officers who were with the Troops when he served, were Genl. Washington, Genl. Putnam, Genl. McDougal, of the York Troops - Genl. Gates, under whom he served also Genl. Arnold, Genl. Poor, Genl. Lincoln who were with them at the north - Colonel Cannel of the southern Troops, Colonel Morgan - He recollects Colonel Sattimons & Cooks regiments of the militia of Connecticut - Colonel Morgans Regiment of Riflemen & Infantry - The general circumstances of his services, were first the retreat out of New York at the time they were blocked in by the British Troops - The Battle at Ridgebury, when Genl. Arnolds horse was shot under him, at which battle he was engaged - an Engagement at Camp Hill in Conn: - The two general Battles at the taking of Burgoyne -
Sixth Did you ever receive a discharge: prior to the service, and if so by whom was it given and what has become of it? -
Ans - He never received a Written discharge -
Seventh State the names of persons in your present neighbourhood, who can testify as to your character for veracity; and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution? -
Ans - Zenas Hutchinson Esquire - Samuel Martin Elder Nathaniel Kellogg - Thomas Watkins Doct: Edward Cornwell -

We Nathaniel Kellogg an Elder of the Baptist Association residing in the Town of Grafton, in the County of Onondaga and State of New York, and Zenas Hutchinson a Justice of the Peace, residing in the Town of Coventry in the County of Onondaga aforesaid, Humbly Certify, that we are well acquainted with Luther Holcomb who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration. That we believe him to be eighty years of age; That he is respected and beloved, in the neighbourhood where he resides to have been a Soldier of the Revolution. And that we concur in that opinion.
Sworn & subscribed the 2nd day of January aforesaid - Robt. M'Call Lieut. Chancellor
Z. Hutchinson Nathaniel Kellogg
And the said Court does hereby declare his opinion after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories, prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary Soldier, and served as he states. And the Court further Certifies, that it appears to him that Nathaniel Kellogg, who has issued the preceding Certificate is a Clergyman residing in the Town of Grafton, in the County of Onondaga and State of New York, and Zenas Hutchinson Esquire a Justice of the Peace, who has also signed the same, is a Resident in the Town of Coventry, in the County of Onondaga aforesaid, and an credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
Robt. M'Call Lieut. Chancellor

I Jonathan L. Woods, Clerk of the Court of Chancery, of the Sixth Circuit of the State of New York, do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of Luther Holcomb, for a Pension.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, this Nineteenth day of August, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, eight hundred and thirty two.
Jonathan L. Woods Clerk

State of New York
Chenango County ss. John Holcomb, of the town of Sharon in the state of Connecticut, aged eighty five years on the 16 th day of October last, being duly sworn doth depose and say, that he is an elder brother of Luther Holcomb of Coventry in Chenango County who is now applying for a pension to the War Department — that he served as a soldier in the Revolutionary Army and is now a pensioner on the Pension Rolls.
That the said Luther Holcomb was an Artificer in the Revolutionary War and served and worked at Danbury, Connecticut, under Captain David Wood. That he has always understood and believes that Luther Holcomb enlisted for during the war — that in consequence of the decay of his memory he cannot now recollect the year precisely when he served, but it was before Danbury was burned — He knows Luther Holcomb was in service as an Artificer under said Wood at the time of the burning, & that he was most if not all the time in such service until he cut his knee and disabled himself, which was two or three years after. — When his knee was cut, he

was brought to their deponents House where he was obliged to stay until he was able to go out on crutches — This deponent knows he was in the service when he cut himself, and remembers going after the Continental Doctor to dress him — The reason Sister Holcomb was brought to her House was because it was much nearer than to the Hospital (which was 3 miles off) and because she was her mother & would receive more attention with him — and further says not —
Subscribed & sworn before me this John Holcomb
13th Jan'y 1834 — and I Certify
that from Representations made to me by credible citizens with whom I am well acquainted & from
the Appearance of Mr. Holcomb
that I have no doubt he is a
man of truth & veracity &
entire credibility —
Smith M. Purdy Judge of Schenectady County
Schenectady County ss — I James A. Blake Clerk of the said County Certify that Smith M. Purdy before whom the foregoing Aff'dant for swore to her said sworn was at the date of the same the Trustee of the said Court and that his signature to the same is genuine Witness my hand and the seal of the said Court this 24th March 1834 James A. Blake Clerk etc.

Sally Holcomb Widow Mother
Set 1853 same as
Recd May 16 th 1851 H. R. Mygatt Oxford New York.

State of New York } Chenango County. } ff. William S. Newton appeared in open court, at a County Court held at Oxford in said County of Chenango, on the twenty fifth day of April, 1854, who being duly sworn according to law, saith that he resides at Oxford in said County of Chenango, that he was was well acquainted with Luther Holcomb who was a soldier of the Revolution, and that said Luther Holcomb died at Coventry in said County of Chenango, on the twenty second day of June, one thousand eight hundred and thirty nine, that he resided with deponent at the time of his death and that deponent was at his funeral, that at the time of his death, he left him surviving his widow, Sally Holcomb, who has for many years resided with deponent and who now resides with deponent at Oxford aforesaid, and that she continues the widow of the said Luther Holcomb.
Subscribed and sworn to in open court before me the day and year aforesaid, and I certify that on inquiry, I am satisfied that said affiant is a credible person.
} Wm S Newton
Roswell Mason
County Judge of Chenango County

State of New York } Chenango County. } fs. Caroline Newton Holcomb appeared in open court, at a County Court held at Oxford in said County of Chenango on the twenty fifth day of April, 1854, who being duly sworn according to law saith that she resided at Oxford in said County of Chenango, that she was well acquainted with Luther Holcomb, who was a soldier of the revolution, and that said Luther Holcomb died at Coventry in said County of Chenango, on the twenty second day of June, one thousand eight hundred and thirty nine, that he resided with deponent at the time of his death, and that deponent was present at his death and was at his funeral, that at the time of his death he left him surviving his widow Sally Holcomb who has for many years resided with deponent, and who now resides with deponent at Oxford aforesaid, and that she continues the widow of the said Luther Holcomb.
Subscribed and sworn to in open court before me, the day and year aforesaid, and I certify that on inquiry I am satisfied that said affiant is a credible person. errone of "Newton" before execution and fine (5) words after was erased before execution
Caroline Newton
Roswell Hudson
County Judge of Chenango County

State of New York } Chenango County } fs:
On this twenty  first day of April 1854, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the peace in and for said County, Sally Holcomb a resident of the town of Oxford, in the County of Chenango, and State of New York, who being first duly sworn according to law doth under oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the pension due to her deceased husband Luther Holcomb, under the Act of June 7 th 1832, and also to obtain the benefit of the second section of the Act of Congress, passed February 3 d 1853, that she is the widow of Luther Holcomb, who was a soldier of the Revolution, and for proof of his service she refers to the evidence on file in the Pension Office and to such further evidence as shall be herewith forwarded to said Office. She further declares that she was married to the said Luther Holcomb on the first day of June, in the year one thousand eight hundred and nineteen. That her husband the aforesaid Luther Holcomb on the twenty second day of June, one thousand eight hundred and thirty nine, died at Coeymans in the State of New York, and that she has remained a widow ever since that period, as will more fully appear by reference to the proof hereto annexed. And hereby constitute and appoint Henry R. Mygatt of Oxford aforesaid, my Attorney to prosecute said claim, at the Pension Office.
Sworn to, subscribed and
acknowledged by the said Sally Holcomb who is known to me.
Hon Sally E Holcomb mark
The day and year first above written,
before me, and I certify that said Sally Holcomb is in too infirm health to attend any Court, and that she made her mark by reason of her infirm health.
Laman Ingersoll Justice of the peace

Married the first day of June One thousand Eight hundred and Nineteen Luther Holcomb to Mrs. Sally Newton both of Bainbridge
State of New York } Chenango County } ss:
Anna Prince being duly sworn says that she is Forty-Eight years of age and resides in Bainbridge in said County of Chenango, and that she is the daughter of Eliab Skeels who was a Justice of the peace in the town of Bainbridge in said County in the year one thousand eight hundred and Nineteen and that her said father is now dead, and that this deponent has in her possession the original record of marriages by him solemnized as a Justice of the peace, and that above is a true copy from said record, with the exception of the date and figures, which are expressed in the record in fair legible figures as follows. Married the first (1 st ) day of June One thousand Eight hundred and Nineteen (1819) Luther Holcomb, to Mrs. Sally Newton, both of Bainbridge
Anna Prince
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 13 th day of April, 1854, and I certify that I am well acquainted with the said affiant and that she is a credible person, J B. Fairchild Justice of the peace

State of New York } Chenango County } ss:
Daniel Beebe being duly sworn says that he resides in Guilford in said County of Chenango, and is the Town Clerk of the said town of Guilford, and that Eliab Skeels was a Justice of the peace in said town in the year one thousand eight hundred and nineteen, and that he has made search among the town records of the said town of Guilford for the marriage of the within named Luther Holcomb to the within named Sally Newton, and that there is no town record of the said marriage.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this                      day of April 1854, by the said affiant who is known to me to be the Town Clerk of the said town of Guilford.
Justice of the peace

State of New York. Chenango County ss.
I Horace S. Read, clerk of said county, and of the County Court of said County hereby certify, that the above affidavits of Caroline Newton and William S. Newton, were made in said County Court as above stated before Roswell Judson who was the County Judge of said County at the date above written and whose signatures above written are genuine. That Samson Ingersoll was a Justice of the Peace of said County at the date of the above affidavit of Sally Holcomb, and that J. B. Fairchild was a Justice of the peace of said County at the date of the above affidavit of Anna Prince, and that their respective signatures above written are genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my hand and the seal of said County being the seal of said County Court, this ninth day of May in the year one thousand eight hundred and fifty four.
Horace S. Read Clerk of Chenango County

September 5, 1935
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
BA-J/ERL Luther Holcomb-R.5134
Mr. C.K.Bailey Bethel Connecticut
Dear Sir:
In compliance with the request of Mr. C.P.Bailey, of Hartford, Connecticut, you are furnished herein the record of Luther Holcomb (R.5134), Revolutionary War soldier, the data for which are obtained from the papers on file in the pension claim.
Luther Holcomb was born August 12, 1752(Old Style) in Windsor, Hartford County, Connecticut. The names of his parents are not shown.
During the Revolutionary War, Luther Holcomb resided in Danbury, Fairfield County, Connecticut. After the war, he continued to reside at Danbury for a while, then removed to Winchester, Connecticut; thence to Chenango County, New York.
The soldier married May 1, 1819, Mrs. Sally Newton. Both were then of Bainbridge, New York. The date and place of birth of Sally, the names of her parents, name of her former husband and date of his death are not shown.
On August 13, 1832, while residing in Coventry, Chenango County, New York, Luther Holcomb applied for pension and alleged that while residing in Danbury, Connecticut, he volunteered in December, 1775, and served three months in Captain Noble Benedict's Company, Colonel Meigs' Connecticut Regiment and was stationed during the whole of the tour in New York City; that he enlisted in May, 1776, served in Captain Gaylord Hubbell's Company, Colonels Silliman and John Chandler's Connecticut Regiment; that he again marched to New York City, and that he was in the retreat from New York, the battles of Harlem Heights and White Plains, "Ridgeberry" and Camp Hill, and that he was discharged December 25, 1776; that he returned to Danbury, Connecticut, and in January, 1777, enlisted as an artificer in Captain David Wood's Company, Colonel Lamb's Regiment;
He stated that he had lived in Connecticut for 27 years but as he was of Bainbridge in 1819, I did not give this statement

that he received orders to remain in Danbury until called by Colonel Lamb, and that he accordingly remained there working at his trade of a wagon maker; that during the time he was under Captain David Wood as an artificer, and previous to the taking of General Burgoyne, he obtained permission from Captain Wood to join the army and arrived at Bennington the day after the battle at that place; that he then joined the army at Bemus Heights in the company of Captain Shipman in the regiment commanded by Colonel Cook, was in the battle at that place and in the battle of Saratoga and after the surrender of Burgoyne, marched to Albany, where he was dismissed, returned to Danbury and to his former employment under Captain David Wood, where he continued until he received a wound in one of his knees from an adz, which disabled him, after which he was discharged; that the entire amount of this last service was two years and seven months.
His claim was not allowed as he failed to furnish proof of service of six months as required by the pension laws.
Reference is made to "Connecticut Historical Collections", page 371, by John W. Barber, published, 1836, in which reference was made to the above named soldier, Luther Holcomb.
Luther Holcomb died June 21 or 22, 1839, at his residence in Coventry, Chenango County, New York, leaving his widow, Sally, who, in 1851, was aged eighty-three years and lived in Chenango County, New York.
In 1854, Sally Holcomb was residing with her son-in-law, William S. Newton, who was then aged about forty-five years. In same year, one Caroline Newton, stated that Sally Holcomb resided in her home but did not give any relationship to said Sally. Both William S. and Carolina Newton resided in Oxford, New York, in 1854.
No names of children are designated.
In 1834, John Holcomb, an elder brother of the soldier, was residing in Sharon, Connecticut. John Holcomb stated that he was born October 16, 1748, and that he served in the Revolutionary War.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Executive Assistant to the Administrator.

REJECTED
5134
1935-Sept 5- sent to Genl. Parise - Genl
P. O. Sully Holcomb Service: _____
Enlisted: _____, 18
Discharged: _____, 18
Printed list of 1852 shows cause of
Application filed: _____, 18
suspension. "No Evidence in the department of such service, nor of any of that described service may possibly be had of the Connecticut"
Re-enlisted: comptroller.
Attorney: _____
P. O. _____
_____ Recognized. _____ Contract
_____ Cert. of Dis. Searched for _____, 18

N o 4.692
Sally Holcomb, wid. of
Luther. 5134 Con.
Set: H. R. Maygatt. May 17/54
" " " " June 6 " "
H. R. Maygatt 8 Sept. 1854
J. A. Coffin Jan 2/57
det 15 3/8

Let to J Ell Nov 25/49 French Sylvester Nov 2/52 Henry H. Magall Dec 14/53
Act 7. June 1832 New York 6695
Sutler Holcomb Suspended
See letter to P. P. P. P. P. P. P. P. 24. April 1834 concl'd  notf'd Let French Sylvester Nov 10/51. (over)

Authority from Ezra Holcomb Son of Luther Holcomb of New York Act June 7. 1832 A Suspended case.
Let Mr Coffin see such papers as are connected with the case of Luther Holcomb.
May 4 th 1857.
W. Biggs Registrar
W. Isaac Auginey
M c Coffin
6,102
47,567
March 1. 1860

Coventry Chenango Co. N.Y.
Sir:
I request you to make investigation into and prosecute any claim in right of the Revolution- ary services of my father Luther Holcomb
I am
Respectfully &c
Cyrena Holcomb
Isaac N. Coffin Esq. Washington D. C.

Eliza Taylor of Danbury Fairfield County and State of Connecticut of Lawful age being twenty five years old and more deposes and saith. That he has been acquainted with Luther Holcomb from his youth to the present time and that said Holcomb resided in this Town before the Revolution and for some years after its close. and that he said Holcomb removed from this Town to the Town of Winchester in the County of Litchfield & State of Connecticut and from thence removed to the Town of Coeymans in the State of New York as deponent has understood & believes and said deponent further states. That said Luther Holcomb in the Month May 1776 enlisted into the Connecticut State troops at the same time deponent enlisted, under Gaylord Hubbard Captain in Colonel Silliman's Regiment and that said Holcomb served in said Company with said deponent eight Months. and was at the Battle of New York Harlem heights & White Plains and on the 23 rd day of December 1776 said Holcomb together with the whole Company to which he belonged were discharged at or near Farmington in the State of New York.
And deponent further says that he was knowing at the time & recollects all that said Holcomb for a considerable length Service as an Artificer in exactly how long but as said Holcomb was at war somewhere between two & three years and until his knee & that in the mean time said Holcomb was absent on a tour to the North & West in the Battle at the surrender of Burgoyne from whence he returned to Danbury & commenced working again under said David Wood and continued at the Artificers business until he cut his knee as aforesaid which rendered him a cripple afterwards Eliza Taylor

State of Connecticut, Fairfield County P. Danbury January 16, 1834
Be it remembered that Oliver Taylor the foregoing named deponent personally appeared before me and made solemn oath to the truth of the facts stated in said deposition by him subscribed which deponent is, and has long been personally known to me and full faith & confidence may be given to his affidavit aforesaid he the said Taylor being a credible person -
Salmon W. Wildman Associate Judge of Fairfield County Court
Holcomb, Luther Conn R 5134

Washington Apr 4 1852
Sir,
I return you two letters in the case of Luther Holcomb, (as in reply will briefly state his alleged service @ offer such consideration, @ referring as now presented themselves in favor of its allowance. He claims a 3 mo term in 1775 under Capt Noble Benedict . — 6 mo in 1776 under Capt Gaylord Hull , @ from Jan'y 1777. Def as an Artillerist at Danbury Conn. under Genl Wood @ Col Lamb.
By reference to Forces Archives 2nd Ser 5th Series, p 954 @ vol 4, p 1219 it will be found that Capt Benedict was in the service at the period, by the pay, amt $1257 Feb'y 1776. In vol. 6, p. 872 it will be also found that, Capt Gaylord Hull was in service in June 1776. The discrepancy in the christian name is rather in favor of the applicant's honesty, than otherwise. There are no rolls of the Conn Militia service.
As to the service as Artillerist at Danbury there should be no doubt on that subject. The proofs offered @ on file, corroborated as it is by history & public records, is certainly very satisfactory. The service is sustained.

by the testimony of Mr. Holcomb and Peter Ambley, the latter testifying in the same cause in 1778 @ presumed as such Col. Hugh Hughes was D. Master Genl. in May 1776. See Am. Archives, Vol. 6. pp. 428. Journals of the Congress March 4 1778, @ by an act in the Conn. Council in Col. Peter Ambley, of April 6. 1779 he called on this having unresisted claims or interests under him to call on Col. Andrew Postlethwaite. @ also on "Major Wood or Danbury" then showing that the allegations of the claimant @ the testimony of the witnesses are fully borne out. Proof of the works at Danbury can be found in various places should any further be required. It is a historical fact known to all familiar with the course of the revolutionary war. In the summer of 1776. the affidavits of Ensign Taylor & a few others, with the references above to the Archives & Journals certainly disprove it. May I beg a careful examination of the claim for the reasons above the main.
I am Respectfully
French & Sylvester
J. H. H. P.
Govt Health Eng

I Daniel Hickok of the town of Danbury County of Fairfield & State of Connecticut of the age of Eighty four years doth depose and say that in the Spring of 1775 I rec d an Ensign's Commission from the Governor of the State of Connecticut accompanied with orders to enlist volunteers for the term of seven months and agreeable to sd order I enlisted a number of men and among them were John Holcomb who enlisted for the term of seven months and about midsummer I was ordered to repair to Canada with the men I had enlisted and I accordingly did and was attached to Col Waterburys Reg t and was knowing to the sd John Holcomb serving his time of enlistment faithfully and further the deponent saith not.
Daniel Hickok
Fairfield County ss Danbury July 11. 1832 Personally appeared Daniel Hickok signer of the above deposition and made solemn oath that the above deposition according to his knowledge and belief is the truth before me.
Oliver Shepard Justice of the Peace.
Fairfield County ss. Danbury July 9. 1833. I do hereby further certify that Daniel Hickok

the above deponent is a man of fair character for truth and is a credible witness.
O Richard Justice of the Peace.
Pension Office April 10 th 1857.
The above is a correct copy of the original on file in the Pension Office with the papers in the Revolutionary pension case of John Holcomb of Connecticut under the Act of June 7. 1832
March 6 th 1857.
S. Call C. Clerk

We Nathaniel Hoyt of Danbury Fairfield County State of Connecticut aged Eighty years and Eli Taylor of said Danbury aged Seventy two years being duly sworn do depose and say that we are well acquainted with Eliud Taylor of said Danbury who hath applied for a pension, that said Taylor in the year 1776 in the month of May enlisted for the term of eight months in the State troops of the State of Connecticut in the Company of Captain Gaylord Hubbell in the Regiment commanded by Gould S. Silliman. Said Taylor served in said Company in the City of New York in the State of New York, & was in the retreat out of New York, & was dismissed at Tarrytown in said New York at the end of said eight months, we served in the same Company and Regiment with him and are knowing to his serving said term of time.
Eli Taylor Nathaniel Hoyt
* * * *
August 1 st 1832. Sworn & Subscribed in open Court and the said Court of Probate certifies that the deponents sustain good characters for truth and are credible witnesses.
Attest Edward Taylor Clerk

Pension Office April 6 th 1857.
The within is a correct copy of the original of file in the Pension Office with the papers in the Revolutionary Pensions case of Olind Taylor of Connecticut under the Act of June 7. 1832.
March 6 th 1857.
J. Cole Clerk

Extract from
Connecticut Historical Collections
By John H. Barber. published 1836.
The British troops in their expedition to Danbury, passed through this village; the following incident is said to have occurred here at that time. As the British were descending the hill a short distance from the village on the old Reading road one of the inhabitants of the town Mr. Luther Holcomb, rode his horse up to the summit of an eminence in front of the enemy. Although entirely alone Mr. Holcomb (judging from the words he used) evidently intended to make an impression. Waiving his hat or sword and turning his face as though he was addressing an army behind him he exclaimed in a voice of thunder "Halt the whole Universe! break off by Kingdoms!" This it must be confessed was a formidable force to encounter. The British army came to a halt. Their cannon were brought forward and made to bear upon their supposed opponents and flanking parties sent out to make discoveries. Mr. Holcomb, on the point of being surrounded and deeming "discretion the better part of valor" thought it advisable to make good his retreat in a rapid manner towards Danbury.
(page 371)

July 2 nd 1852

Pension Office,
July 2. 1852.
Gent:
Until you file the evidence which has been required in the case of Luther Holcomb of N.Y. under Act of 7 June 1832, no allowance can be made.
Messrs. French & Sylvester Present,

State of Connecticut Comptroller's Office Hartford March 27 th 1854
I certify, that on application for evidence of the service of Luther Holcomb in Capt. Hubbell's Company and Col. Silliman's Regt. in 1776, I have examined the documents remaining in this office, and do not find any Pay Roll for the service of Capt. Hubbell's company in 1776.
I find on a Pay Table Ledger, an account with "Col. Gold S. Silliman's Regt. rais d in June 1776 for 6 months," and among the items of the account are the following, viz, "To Capt. Hubbell's Pay Roll / Bounty on Enlisting £195. / Do. on Equipping £59. 8. / Hospital Expense £6. 14. 10 / Arms and Baggage taken or destroyed £46. 12. 8 / Commissions £10. 1. / Total £317. 16. 6."
On another Pay Table Ledger in this Office, is an account with Capt. Wm. G. Hubbell, in which he is charged under date of "June 19 th 1776, To Order on Treasury £580." "for his Co. Silliman's Regt." Capt. Hubbell is credited in the same account under date of "May 22 nd 1777, By his Acct. reud. (Col. Silliman's Regt.) £582. 8."
R. G. Paine, Comptroller, by Wm. Robinson, Clerk

Oxford, Chenango Co. N.Y.
May 31. 1854.
Sir,
On the 17 th inst the claim of Sally Holcomb for a pension was investigated in your office and by your courtesy I was allowed to examine the papers on file in your office in relation thereto. I have your letter of the 17 th inst., in regard thereto by which it appears that the husband of the applicant claimed to have served as an artificer for 2 years and nine months from January 1777.
By the papers on file in your office it appears that Peter Ambler was a witness to prove the services. - That Ambler knew well Mr. Holcomb, and served with and slept in the same bed with Mr. Holcomb.
It also appears from the Connecticut pension list that said Ambler was pensioned as an artificer of Capt. Thomas Patten's Co. of the 2d N.Y. Regiment of which regiment Lamb was the Colonel. Said Ambler in his affidavit swears that the company

of artificers was a company from Connecticut attached to Col. Lamb's New York Regiment. Mr. Holcomb in his declaration thinks the service was under Captain or overseer David Woods. In that he may have been mistaken, and the service I should think from Mr. Amblers affidavit, was in Patten's Company.
Will you be pleased to have examined the evidence on which Amblers was pensioned, and I presume if there be a roll of Patten's Company, you will find Mr. Holcomb's name thereon, and quite probable that David Woods may be on the same list, as an overseer in some capacity.
If Luther Holcomb's name is on that list, then in connection with Amblers affidavit, does it not clearly establish that Mr. Holcomb was an artificer as claimed, and if so, will you please forward to me the proper pension certificate for the widow. I am
Very Respectfully Yours Henry R. Mygatt
L. P. Waldo Esq. Comm r of Pensions.

Danbury Fairfield Co Conn
July 5 th 1854
A R Mygatt Esq
Dear Sir
Yours of the 28 th ult was received last evening - There are no rolls of any companies that served in the Revolution, in this Town, that I am aware of - our Records were all burned in the Revolution, and I presume there are none, in the Town, The Revolutionary Soldiers of this Town are all dead - I well recollect of hearing my father and other Revolutionary Soldiers speak of Mr Luther Holcomb, and particularly of an anecdote, of his, in stopping the British army, as they were descending a hill a little east of the Village of Bethel by his riding his horse to the summit of an eminence in their front, and turning his horse, and giving words of command as if he had an army in his rear, which brought the British army to a halt, and after they had brought their artillery in front, and prepared for battle Holcomb rode off to Danbury as fast, as the fleetness of his horse could carry him -

This anecdote is published in the Connecticut Historical Collections, published by John W. Barber in 1836 - For this act his widow ought to have a pension - There is no doubt Mr. Holcomb was in the U States service during the revolution, and if you have the Deposition of Mr Peter Ambley I should think a pension could be obtained - I have often heard Revolutionary Soldiers speak of Mr Holcomb, as being one with them - I shall be happy to furnish you any aid in my power in the matter
Respectfully yours
Edward Taylor
Should you wish to write me further on the subject please direct your letter to Bethel Post Office, and it will reach me sooner, than if directed to Danbury -
E. T.

Oxford August 19 th 1857.
Chenango County N.Y.
Sir,
In your letter of the 6 th of June last in reply to mine of the 31 st of May last you state that Luther Holcomb's widows claim has been again carefully examined and suspended" and that the evidence establishing his services  claim should be of record and that his name is not found on the rolls of your office.
Will you allow me again to direct your attention to my letter of May 31 st As Peter Ambler was a witness of the service and his evidence is quite full and as said Ambler was a pensioner will you have his papers examined on which he was pensioned for they may contain copies of rolls or point to the rolls where evidence of the service of Luther Holcomb may be found
I beg the personal examination of this case by the Commissioner of Pensions or by Mr Cole as the widow is a poor, infirm, old woman greatly to be benifitted if a pension can be justly granted. That the claim is a just one I think you will be satisfied in reading Peter Ambler's Affidavit and the accompanying papers.

I send herewith the letter of the Hon! Edward Taylor of Danbury, Connecticut shewing the view taken by him of the service of Mr Walcutt.
I also send an extract from Barber's Historical Collections of Connecticut shewing that Mr Walcutt was of the Revolution.
I am Respectfully Yours,
Henry R. Mygatt
L. P. Walcutt Esq
born of Pensylvania

Peter Ambler of Danbury County was pensioned on 17 July 1828 at 288
Certificate of Pension in Vol 2 d } No of case 133. of Revolutionary Claims. —
Certificate of Pension, states he was a Private Artificer in Captain Patten's Company of Artificers of Continental line
Extract from Certificate of Treasury Department dated 7 th July 1828. He states  states "for and during the war" and continued until its termination at which period he was a private of Artificers in Captain Thomas Patten's Company which he believes was attached to the 2 d Reg t of the New York line.
Extract from Certificate of the Third Auditor's Office
Third Auditor's Office
8 th July 1828.
It appears by the records in this office, that a certificate for the reward of eighty dollars has been issued to Peter Ambler in Capt. Thos Patten's Co of Artificers.
His Declaration states "I enlisted in the Continental line of the Army of the Revolution for and during the war on or about the 1 st day of March 1778, and

continued in its service until its termination, at which period time I was a private in Capt Thomas Patten's Company of Artillery Artificers - which said Company was attached to the Corps of Artillery Artificers commanded by General Knox - and I believed said Company belonged to Col Lamb's Regiment of Artillery of the New York line."
Extract from Letter of Reuben Booth date June 16 th 1828 States - "he has thought it expedient to send the certificate of Capt Patten & Genl Knox under whom he served, - in addition to his discharge, which he requests you will return to him when the decision on his application  shall no longer require its detention  shall when the decision on his application shall no longer require its detention. A new  Disc piece of paper blank otherwise states, "Discharge in favour of Peter Ambler dated June 9. 1783."
Pension Office April 15 th 1857.
The above is a correct copy and extracts of the originals on file in the Pension Office with the papers in the Revolutionary pension case of Peter Ambler of Connecticut under the Act of May 15 th 1828.
J. S. C.

State of Connecticut Comptroller's Office Hartford June 6 th 1857
Sir,
Your letter of May 29 th , with one dollar inclosed, has been received at this office. I have made a further examination of our documents in relation to the service of Luther Holcomb, and am sorry to have to report to you, that I can find no evidence of his service in this office.
On one of our Pay Table Ledgers, I find a charge to Capt. Wm. G. Hubbard June 19 th 1776 for his Co. in Silliman's Regt. of $580, but the Pay Roll for this Company is missing. Col. Silliman's Regt. was raised in June 1776, and served in the vicinity of New York about six months. If a certificate of these facts will be of use to you it can be given. There is no evidence found in this office of service under Capt. David Wood.
Many of the Pay Rolls for Militia service in this State, were sent to Washington after the war, in order to obtain a settlement with the General Government, and these Rolls were

never returned to this office. It is supposed that they were destroyed, when the Treasury Building at Washington was burned, many years since.
I am very sorry that I cannot furnish you with the desired evidence.
I am very respectfully your obedient servt.
Geo. Robinson For Compt.

Pension Office, June 20, 1857
Sir,
In relation to the case of Luther Holcomb who applied for pension under act of June 7, 1832, and that of Sally Holcomb, his widow now an applicant for an allowance under act of February 3, 1833, you are informed that inasmuch as the the evidence now on file was before my predecessors when their claims were disallowed, I cannot re-examine the papers with a view of disturbing their decisions -
Very resp'y J.C.
Isaac N. Coffin Esq. Washington, D.C.

H. R. Maygatt
Sep. 8/57.

116 Pension Office. 8 th Sept. 1854.
Sir,
The claim of Sally Holcomb widow of Luther of New York, has been examined.
No evidence has been adduced which would justify the admission of the claim. Luther's name is not found upon the Rolls of Artificers in this Office. Peter Ambler who was a pensioner, is the only witness who professes to have been in the same service with Luther, and he is unable to state how long Luther served. Without satisfactory proof of his service, the claim cannot be admitted.
Henry R. Mygatt Esq. Oxford.
Chenango Co. N. Y.

Luther Holcomb
H. H. Sylvester, Atty to re-examine papers &c
Report of the case of Luther Holcomb Delaware Co
Mr Cole May 14 1851
7 Oct term No 166. 2 nd No 76 86946 for Mark
E. B. H. H. Sylvester
June 2-51

Oct 17 1776 Col. Voluntary Reg For 2 Articles Vol 4 p 1219 Pay due Capt Benedict 1257.21 10 Vol 6 p 872 W Gaylord Hubbell Capt Pension Office, Low Mills Jan 76 November 23 rd 1849.
Sir,
In reply to your letter of the 18 th instant, in the case of Luther Holcomb, under act 7 th June 1832, I have to state that the principal service alleged by him was as an Artificer under Captain Woods. The records in this office afford no evidence of his alleged service. He also alleged to have served in the Connecticut troops in 1775, under Captain Noble Benedict, and six months in 1776 under Captain Gaylord Hubbell. Application should be made to the Comptroller of Connecticut for evidence of the service. If Mr. Holcomb be dead evidence should be produced in open court showing the period of his death, and the names of the children now surviving him.
Very respectfully, Your Ob d Servant, J L Edwards
Joseph Ellis, Esq., Bloomingburg N.Y.

Pension Office,
Nov 10. 1851
Gent:
The application of the widow of Luther Holcomb for arrears of pension supposed to be due his heirs under act of 7 June 1832 has been examined. In 1834 Mr. H. applied under that Act but as the alleged service was not sustained by sufficient testimony the claim was suspended.
I cannot better inform you of the condition of it, than by the enclosed letter to Joseph Ellis written in 1849 in answer to his enquiries on the subject
Very Respectfully
Yr. Obedt Servt
M. Wilson
for Commr.
Messrs French & Sylvester
Present,
✓

June 6/54

92 Pension Office, 6 th June, 1854.
Sir,
The claim of Mrs. Sally Holcomb, for a pension as the widow of Luther, has been received again lawfully examined & suspended.
The Claimant must file evidence establishing the service of Luther Holcomb, beyond doubt. Such evidence should be of record. The name of Luther Holcomb, is not found upon the roll of this Office.
I have the honor to be,
Henry R. Mygatt Esq., Oxford, Chenango Co., N.Y.

Wm R. Mygatt Dec. 14/53

156 169 Pension Office, December 14. 1853.
Sir,
In reply to your letter of the 13 th instant, I have the honor to state that Luther Holcomb applied in 1834  during his lifetime for pension under the act of June 7. 1832, but as the alleged service was not sustained by satisfactory testimony, the claim was suspended. His widow, after his death, has made application for the arrears due, with the same result. I cannot better inform you of the condition of the claim than by enclosing you the copy of a letter written to Joseph Collins, under date of Nov 25, 1849. The requirements of this letter have never been complied with.
Respectfully, &c
Henry R. Mygatt Esqr Oxford, Chenango Co N.Y.

Bloomingburgh October 10th 1853
Dear
Sir I Recd your Letter of the 13th of September and I wrote on to the City of Washington to get an answer from the Pension Case of the Widow Holcomb and my attorney there Says that the widow must be patient and he wil get her claim allowed as soon as he possibly can he attends to my business for me there When I am not there I have the fullest confidence that we shall get her pension claim allowed all the The Time seems long there is seven thousand cases before the commissioner and it takes time to see so much business as they have to do I wil write you as soon as I hear from her boss yours with Respect Joseph Ellis
Mrs S Newton Esq

Augt 20 th 31 Declaration of Sally Holcomb Widow of Luther Holcomb under act of June 7 th 1832
Cap Fickett
French & Sylvester Present.

State of New York } County of Chenango } ss. Be it known that personally appeared before me a justice of the Peace in and for said county William S. Newton a resident of said county, aged 42 years, who being duly sworn according to law states that he was personally acquainted with Luther Hol- comb, deceased, late of said county, and that he died on or about the 24th day of June A.D. 1839, in said county, and that he left him surviving Sally Holcomb his widow who made the foregoing declaration, and that he knew the said Luther Holcomb and Sally Holcomb to live together as husband and wife for the last twenty years in good repute up to the time of his, the said Luther Holcomb's death, and that she the said Sally Holcomb still remains a widow
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 24th day of June 1851
Wm S Newton
Mr Tracy Justice of the Peace
I the said Justice do hereby certify that I am personally acquainted with William S. Newton, who made oath and subscribed his name to the above affidavit, and that he bears a good character for truth and that his statement is entitled to full credit and belief
Mr Tracy Justice of the Peace
State of New-York, } ss. Chenango County Clerk's Office, }
I, NELSON PELLET, Clerk of said County, Do Certify,
That ..... Esq., before whom the annexed instrument was proved or acknowledged, was at the time of taking such proof or acknowledg- ment, a JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, in and for said County duly authorized and qualified to take the same. And further, That I am well acquainted with his hand writing and verily believe the signature thereto pur- porting to be his, is genuine; and that the said instrument is executed in accordance with the Laws of the State of New-York.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my official seal, at Norwich, this 5th day of July 1851.
N. Pellet

Washington June 12 th 1857.
Sir: In the Revolutionary Pension case of Luther Holcomb of New York under the Act of June 7 th 1832, — I herewith enclose the following papers.
Copies of papers in the Admitted Revolutionary Pension cases of persons who served with him and who swear in the most positive manner that they served with them — and that they were personal eyewitnesses of his service — To save the trouble of reference which papers are certified by the Chief Clerk of the Pension Office to be true copies. Certificate of the Comptroller of Connecticut dated June 6. 1857, obtained in compliance with the letter of the Pension Office — proving that every means has been exhausted to obtain Record Evidence — and 2 d Showing that the Pay Rolls for Militia service in this State were sent to Washington and were destroyed when the Treasury Building at Washington was burned — and thus as the claimants are prevented from furnishing Record evidence by the fault of the United States in not having those fire proof buildings which the smallest States have, the action ought to be equitable, when the service is so positively proved

by parol evidence.
In "Executive Documents" of the House of Representatives U.S. of Sess 1829-'30 No 32 — the Secretary of War on January 18, 1830 in a Communication to the Senate states that in the adjudication of pensions "No evidence in relation thereto which would be competent in the highest judicial tribunals of the State has ever been refused" — and it is Respectfully Represented, that Evidence by Testimony uttered so long ago as 1834 — Twenty Three Years when parol evidence was first received, the party giving more recent since, by persons in a situation to know the facts about which they testify and risking their own professional testimony as the following — and as you have no right or power to the injury of the persons I represent, to nullify what is established by the highest judicial tribunals as "legal evidence", and no right to assume that "Satisfactory evidence" is higher than legal evidence — that the evidence in this case ought to be received as sufficient.
Peter Amble — one of the Affiants produced three Documents proving his own service viz Certificate of Capt Hatten and General Knapp and his Discharge, as shown by the papers herewith enclosed — and swears that Luther Holcomb "enlisted and worked as an Artificer at the same time and place with the deponent" — and boarded in the same house and that he said deponent sometime slept in the same bed" and states a fact which must have impressed the service on his mind "Holcomb cut his knee with an adze while at work as an

Artificer"
Eliza Taylor — a pensioner whose service is proved swears "he was, knowing at the time and recollects well that said Holcomb for a considerable length of time was in the public service as an Artificer between two and three years and until he cut his knee"
John Holcomb a pensioner, whose service is proved by the Daniel Hook  the  deposition of the Company swears "He knows Luther Holcomb was in service as an Artificer under said Wood at the "time of the burning [of Danbury]" & that he was, most "if not all the time in such service until he "cut his knee and disabled himself which was two or "three years after. When his knee was cut he was "brought to this deponent's house , where he was obliged "to stay until he was able to go out on crutches, "This deponent knows he was in the service when "he cut himself, and remembers going after the "Continental Doctors."
I am Very Respectfully Your Obedt Servt Isaac N. Coffin.
George C. Whiting Esq Commissioner of Pension Washington. D.C.

Pension Office 17 th May. 1854.
Sir,
The Claim of Mrs. Sally Holcomb, for a pension under the 2 d section of the Act of Feb. 3 d 1853. as the Widow of Luther, has been recieved, examined & suspended.
Luther Holcomb,
Made application in his life time for a pension under the Act of 7 th of June. 1832, * his claim was disallowed for want of proof of his alleged service
Since
his death  his widow And the Office requires of him to prove satisfactorily, that he served as he alleged. either by the Connecticut rolls, or otherwise, this he failed to do. Since his death, his widow applied for the arrear of pension due her deceased husband. In order to entitle her to such arrear, her husband's

Service was required to be established, this has never done.
Application is now made for a pension to the widow. In Order to entitle her to a pension she must file satisfactory evidence, that her husband served in the Revolutionary War, the length and duration of that service & the grade thereof. The name of Luther Holcomb, is not to be found upon the rolls in this Office, of any of the Officers under whom he alleged he served. Luther Holcomb, Claimed for three Months service as a private in 1775. and Months as a private in 1776 & for 2 Years & 9 months service as an Artificer from January, 17 all of which service was performed in the State of Connecticut. Service of as important a character as the above Service of such duration, must have been noted. If therefore, Holcomb, served as he alleges, his name must appear upon the Connecticut rolls.
I am Sir, &c,
H. R. Mygatt Esq r , Oxford, N.Y.

Oxford, Chenango Co. N.Y.
December 3. 1853.
Sir:
In 1851. Sally Holcomb of this county employed Joseph Ellis of Bloomingburgh in Sullivan County in this State to procure for her a pension. She was the widow of Luther Holcomb, who was an applicant for a pension under the act June 7 th 1832.
Since 1851. Mrs. Holcomb, or her son in law have received a large number of letters from Mr. Ellis in relation to said claim, all of which letters are left with me in behalf of Mrs. Holcomb, the last of which letters, addressed to her son in law William S. Newton. I herewith send you.
The letters generally assume that the claim is suspended at your office, — that it is not reached. — The within letter states that there are several hundred claims before you. As I have understood, that the business of your office was

not delayed, but the claims passed on soon after presented. At the request of Mrs. Holcomb, I now address you, requesting that you will advise me, the present condition of her claim, whether it has been presented to your office, has it been passed upon: and what is its present condition?
I am
Very Respectfully Yours Henry R. Mygatt
L. P. Waldo Esq. Commissioner of Pensions.

6695
New York
Putnam Co Staten Chautauqua Co N.Y.
Father Holcomb Application under June 7 1832
Hubbell Co Chautauqua Comt Continental 6 mos
Col Lamb
artillery 2 yrs 9 mos
Not found on Rolls
Address P.B. Prindle Norwich Chautauqua Co N.Y.

6695
BRIEF objections to the admission of Pension Claims, of which those answered in the negative, in red ink, will apply to the claim of Luther Holcomb which require further proof or explanation.
 I. Does the declaration show where the applicant resides? It does  II. Did the declarant make the declaration in the county where he resides? Hee did  III. If the applicant did not make the declaration in the county where he resides, is there any reason assigned for his not doing so?  IV. Has the declarant mentioned the period or periods of the war when he served? Hee has  V. *Has he mentioned with precision the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled? Hee has  VI. Has he given the names of the officers under whom he served, in conformity with the regulations? Hee has not  VII. Has he made a relinquishment of every claim to any other pension than the one under the Act of June 7, 1832? Hee has  VIII. Has the Court given their opinion? It has  IX. Has the Clerk given his certificate? Hee has  X. Is the Clerk's seal affixed? And if so, has it a device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal? It is, & is so distinguishable. 

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

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

Bloomfield NY November 20
Free
This is the only card in file that comes next to it
Nov 20 1844 Mrs. Mary Edwards
Hon. J. H. Edwards Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D. C.

Bloomingburgh November 18th 1849
Deer Sir
Leather Horum applied for a pension under the act of June 7th 1832 and his application is suspended his son Jeremiah Walker me to write you on the subject you will please me a favor to send me a report in the case yours with Respect Joseph Ellis
Dear J. L. Edwards

Peter Ambley of Danbury Fairfield County and State of Connecticut being Seventy four years old and of Lawful Age being duly sworn deposes and says. That he was well acquainted with Luther Holcomb formerly of said Danbury during the Revolutionary Wars and since that time and well remembers that said Holcomb Enlisted and worked as an Artificer at the same time & place with the Deponent under Captain David Wood some time in the year 1776 or 1777 and deponent further recollects & states that he boarded in the same house with said Holcomb for a considerable length of time and that he said deponent sometimes slept in the same Bed with said Holcomb. The deponent further states that he cannot recollect the precise length of time which said Holcomb worked as an artificer aforesaid in the service of the State on estimates but it is deponent's impression that he said Holcomb continued to work as aforesaid a considerable length of time & Deponent further states that he has recd a pension from the Government for about four years last past for his services as an artificer and further the deponent saith that deponent well recollects that said Holcomb cut his knee with an adz while at work as an artificer in the aforesaid publick service and further the deponent saith not
Peter Ambley
State of Connecticut Fairfield County ss Danbury February 3 d 1834
Be it remembered that Peter Ambley the above subscribing a credible person deponent personally appeared before me & made solemn Oath to the truth of the facts by him stated in said deposition. Said Deponent is personally known to me & full faith and confidence may be given to his affidavit.
Salmon W. Tuttle Associate Judge Fairfield Co. Ct.

State of Connecticut } Fairfield County } ss. I Thomas B Osborne Clerk of the County Court within and for the County of Fairfield in the State of Connecticut do hereby certify that Zalmou Wildman Esquire, whose own proper signatures, known to me to be genuine, are annexed to the foregoing certificates on the Depositions of Eliud Taylor & Peter Mubler, is now and was on the 16 th day of January last and ever since has been, an associate Judge of said County Court duly commissioned and acting as such. In testimony whereof I have hereto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said County Court in Fairfield this 12 th day of February A D 1834. Thomas B Osborne Clerk

State of New York } county of Chenango } Be it known that before me, Uri Tracy, a justice of the Peace in and for the county of Chenango in said State personally appeared Sally Holcomb, a resident of said county, aged eighty-three years, who being first duly sworn by me according to law on her oath made the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the Act of Congress passed June 7 th 1832, entitled an Act granting pensions to certain soldiers who served in and during the war of the Revolution - That she is the widow of Luther Holcomb, deceased, a late resident of said county of Chenango in said State, and that her husband the said Luther Holcomb was a soldier and served in and during the war of the Revolution and that he made a declaration and applied for a pension under said Act of June 7 th 1832, as she has understood and believes, and that the said declaration and other proof she believes is now on file in the Pension Department, and she this declarant gives reference to said declaration and other proof on file in said office to support her application for a pension. And she further declares that she was married to her husband the said Luther Holcomb on or about the 1 st day of May in the year 1819, by Rev. Mr. Chapin, a Presbyterian Minister, all of which she believes to be true. And she further states that the said Luther Holcomb her husband died at his residence in said county of Chenango on the 21 st day of June in the year 1839, and that she has remained a widow ever since his death, as will more fully appear by reference to the proof herunto annexed. Sworn to and subscribed Sally her X Holcomb mark before me this 24 th day of June 1851 Uri Tracy justice of the Peace
I the said justice do hereby certify that the above named Sally Holcomb who made the foregoing, I find upon examination is unable

to attend the sitting of a County Court or Court of Record of said County on account of infirmity of age, and I further certify that she underwent a careful examination of the statements set forth in the foregoing declaration in accordance with the instructions given me by Smith M Purdy, the above named Judge of said county
Wm Tracy Justice of the Peace
The words "her husband" and "by" in the twelfth and thirteenth lines from the bottom of the preceding page, were blurred before executed, also the blot at the top of the page
Wm Tracy Justice of the Peace

State of New York } County of Chenango }
Be it known that I. Smith M c Parady, county Judge in and for said County of Chenango do hereby nominate and appoint Mr. Tracy, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County to go to the residence of Sally Holcomb in the town of Oxford in the county aforesaid, who will first be sworn and on her oath before you make her declaration for a pension under the Act of June 7 th 1832, and that you will take her said declaration with care and caution in order to have the same correctly made according to the best of her recollection, information and belief, and if in your opinion she is unable to attend the sitting of a County Court or Court of Record of said county, you will certify that such is the case by reason of infirmity of age or disease, as the case may be.
Dated at Norwich in said county, this 24 th day of June 1851
Smith M c Parady County Judge of Chenango Co N.Y.
State of New York } Chenango County }
I Nelson Pellet Clerk of said County do certify that Smith M c Parady by whom the above Appointment was made was at the time of making such Appointment the County Judge in and for said County duly Elected and Qualified and that his signature above written is genuine
In witness whereof I have hereunto set My hand and Affixed My Official Seal this 24 th day of June 1851
A Parady Clerk

After 5 days, return to STATE AUDITORS, State Capitol, HARTFORD, CONN.
C. P. Bailey
LEWIS W. PHELPS of Andover FRANK M. LYNCH of New Haven
State of Connecticut
✓ Auditors of Public Accounts
Hartford, August 26th 19 35
Bureau of Revolutionary War Pensions, Washington, D.C.
Gentlemen:
Will you kindly forward to Mr. C.K.Bailey of Bethel, Conn., any information that you may have on hand in reference to Luther Holcomb or his wife Sally as found in application for pension for himself and widow in R-5134.
This information is needed for Tercentenary celebration which the town of Bethel and Danbury are planning.
Very truly yours,
C. P. Bailey
CPB-A

September 5, 1935
XXXXXXXXXXXXX
BA-J/MMHF/eel
Mr. C.P.Bailey State Auditors, State Capitol Hartford, Connecticut
Dear Sir:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request for Mr. C.K.Bailey, of Bethel, Connecticut, the Revolutionary War record of Luther Holcomb, R.5134.
The record of that soldier has this day been mailed to Mr.Bailey.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Executive Assistant to the Administrator.