Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File B.L.Wt. 2148-200, James Harper, Va.

SERVICE
NUMBER
Va.
Harper James
B.L.Wt. 2148-200
9
Rejected Va. Half Pay
CONTENTS
sd. died 1799. leaving widow Anne and mother John whose children were Elizabeth, Beal James and (Robert W. to whom bond of lands was allowed).
son James Harper W. 14859 based on this service, but family data different.

75 Know all men by these presents that, we James Harper and Robert W Harper of Prince Georges County in the State of Maryland have made con- stituted and appointed and by these presents do make constitute and appoint, Thomas H Beale of the City of Alexandria in the District of Columbia our true and lawful Attorney, for us, in our names and on our behalf, to adjust, receive, collect and settle our claims due from the United States for servi- ces rendered the Government in the Revolution- ary War by Lieutenant James Harper our deceased Uncle, and to execute all such receipts instruments and writings as he shall judge necessary for that purpose; and to ask demand, recover and receive for our use, according to the third section of the Act of Congress of the United States of the fifth of July eighteen hundred and thirty two, all such debts, sum and sums of money and Lands as may be due for the services rendered to the General Government by our deceased Uncle as aforesaid. And upon receipt of the said debt or debts, sum or sums of money, Lands or claims to lands res- pectively or any part thereof acquittances or other sufficient discharge, for us and in our names, to make and give for what he shall so receive, and to do regulate transact and perform all such other acts matters and things for us, in our names and on our behalf in and about the premises, as fully and effectually in every respect as we might or could do if per- sonally present, hereby ratifying and con- firming all and whatsoever our said

Attorney shall lawfully do, or cause to be done, in and about the premises by virtue of these presents.
In Witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands and affixed our seals this eleventh day of November in the year eighteen hundred and thirty three.
Sealed and delivered in the presence of Richd. D. Burroughs
James Harper
Robt W Harper
State of Maryland Prince Georges County to wit
On this eleventh day of November eighteen hundred and thirty three personally appears before the subscriber a Justice of the peace for said County, James Harper and Robert W Harper and acknowledged the foregoing instruments to be their Act and deed, according to the purport true intent and meaning thereof, and the Act of Assembly in such case made and provided.
acknowledged before
Richd. D. Burroughs J.P.

State of Maryland Prince Georges County Set
I hereby certify that Richard D Burroughs Gentleman, who appears to have taken the annexed acknowledgment of James Harper and Robert W Harper and whose name is thereunto subscribed was on the day of the date thereof and still is one of the State of Maryland Justices of the peace in and for Prince Georges County aforesaid, duly commissioned and sworn.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed the seal of Prince Georges County Court this eleventh day of November Anno Domini 1833
Aquila Beall clk of P. Geo County Court
Maryland Prince Georges County Set
I John Stephen chief Judge of the first Judicial District of Maryland comprehending the Counties of Saint Mary's Charles and Prince Georges County do hereby certify that Aquila Beall Esquire was at the time of the above attestation and still is Clerk of Prince Georges County Court and that the same is in due form and that the said Aquila Beall is the proper officer to make the same.
Given under my hand this thirteenth day of November Anno Domini 1833
John Stephen

Maryland Prince Georges County Set
I Aguila Beall clerk of Prince Georges County Court do hereby certify that the Honorable John Stephen was at the time of subscribing the within certificate and title is duly commissioned and qualified as Chief Judge of the first Judicial District of Maryland.
Given under my hand and the seal of my office this
nineteenth day of November Anno Domini 1833.
Aguila Beall Clerk of Prince Georges County Court
Dec Nov 28, 1833
W. L. Harper
Thos. H. Beall

In the name of God amen James Harper of the Borough of Norfolk being weak in body but of sound mind and memory do make and ordain this writing to be my last will and Testament in manner and form following It is my will and desire that all monies due to me and my personal estate be appropriated to the payment of such debts as are justly due from me. If any balance remain I give and bequeath the same to my beloved wife Ann Harper. Item I give and bequeath to my said wife the house and lot whereon I now live to be held and enjoyed by her during her natural life after her death it is my will and desire, and I do hereby direct that the same shall be sold in twelve months credit or for cash as may be thought most eligible by my executors either of them, out of the proceeds I direct the payment of such debts as may be unsatisfied out of the funds above mentioned in case the same be insufficient; the balance of the proceeds of the lot or the whole thereof, if the debts are satisfied out of the personal estate I give and bequeath to my brother John Harper of Alexandria or his heirs, revoking all former wills by me made. I do hereby nominate & appoint my wife and my friend James Williamson to be executors and executrix of this my last Will and Testament. In witness whereof and seal this 27 th day of February in the year of our Lord One thousand seven hundred and ninety nine.
Sealed and delivered in presence of us James Harper (Seal) John Johnston, William Anderson Math t Murphy
at a court held for Norfolk County May the 20 th 1799 This last will and Testament of James Harper deceased was proved by the oaths of John Johnston and William Anderson witnesses thereto & ordered to be Recorded.
Teste
W m Wilson Jr. C.N.C.
State of Virginia
William B. Wilson clerk of the County Court of Norfolk

Norfolk in the state of Virginia aforesaid do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy from the records of the said Court.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Court this the eighteenth day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty five and of our Independence the fifty ninth.
W m H Wilson Clerk.

Rev. War Section.
AW ain
June 24, 1931.
Cosette Ramsey Rice, 1001 10" St. S. Fargo, N. Dak
Madam:
In response to your letter of the 9" instant, you are advised that the records of this Bureau show that James Harper who was born and raised in Alexandria, Virginia, was an Orderly Sergeant in the spring of 1777, officers under whom he served not stated, and in 1778 was commissioned Lieutenant in Colonel George Gibson's Virginia State Regiment and served until 1780.
He died in Norfolk, Virginia in the spring of 1799, leaving a widow Ann, who later married ---- Lindsay.
The date of his birth, the date of his enlistment, the maiden name of his widow and the date of her death are not recorded. Bounty land in full satisfaction for the services rendered by him, was allowed on Warrant No. 2148. It does not appear that pension was allowed on account of his services.
Very respectfully,
H.M. Vandervort
Acting Commissioner.

In the name of God Amen I James Warfer of the Borough of Norfolk being weak in body but of sound mind and memory do make and ordain this writing to be my last will and testament in manner & form following. It is my will and desire that all monies due to me and my personal estate be appropriated to the payment of such debts as are justly due from me. If any balance remains after all my debts are paid I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Mary Warfer the house and lot wherein I now live to be held and enjoyed by her during her natural life after her death it is my will and desire, and I do hereby direct that the same shall be sold on twelve months credit or for cash as may be thought most eligible by my executors or either of them, out of the proceeds I direct the payment of such debts as may be unsatisfied out of the funds above mentioned in case the same be insufficient, the balance of the proceeds of the lot or the whole thereof, if the debts are satisfied out of the personal estate. I give and bequeath to my brother John Warfer of Alexandria or his heirs revoking all former wills by me made, I do hereby nominate & appoint my wife and my friend James Williamson to be executors and executrix of this my last will & testament. In witness my hand and seal this 27 th day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety nine Signed & delivered in presence of John Johnston William Anderson James Warfer (Seal) Nathan Murphy
At a court held for Norfolk County May the 20 th 1799. This last will & testament of James Warfer deceased was proved by the oaths of Johnston and William Anderson witnesses thereto. James Warfer A copy James Warfer

Rev. War Section.
September 4, 1919.
Mrs. Burton Rice, 1001 Tenth St. South, Fargo, N. D.
Madam:
In reply to your letter of the 24" ultimo, you are advised that the date of birth of James Harper, the maiden name of his widow Ann and the date of her death are not stated in the claim for Revolutionary War bounty land Warrant 8,148.
It does not appear that pension was allowed on account of his services.
Very respectfully,
E. C. Sieman
Acting Commissioner.

AW
Rev. War Section.
See reference to a James Harper's Va Half Pay in Wm Spencer, Va Half Pay. I do not know whether it refers to this James June 21, 1919.
Harper or James Harper, R. 14859 MMS
Mrs. Burton Rice, 1001 Tenth Street, Fargo, N. D.
Madam:
In response to your letter dated the 2 nd instant, you are advised that the records of this Bureau show that James Harper who was born and raised in Alexandria Virginia, was an Orderly Sergeant in the spring of 1777, officers under whom he served not stated, and in 1778 was commissioned Lieutenant in Colonel George Gibson's Virginia State Regiment and served until 1780.
He died in Norfolk Virginia in the spring of 1799 leaving a widow Ann who later married ----Lindsay.
Bounty land was allowed in full satisfaction for services rendered.
Very respectfully,
Commissioner.
B.L. M. 2148-200 Rej. Va. Half Pay
No use to give history of collateral heirs etc

6-45 div DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, BUREAU OF PENSIONS,
WASHINGTON, D. C., Jan. 26, 1893
One enclosure.
Sir:
Replying to your communication in which you request to be informed if military Bounty Land Warrants were issued to James and John Harper, officers of the Revolutionary War, I have to request that you will please state the purpose for which you desire the information.
Please return all enclosures with your reply.
Very respectfully,
Commissioner.
Henry H. Harper, Esq.
107 S. Royal St.,
Alexandria, Va.

WAR & NAVY APR 21 1893 FILES. P. B.
PENSION OFFICE. APR 20 1893 U S

10195. 10196. & 10197. Said Scrip was recorded in Vol. 65. Pages. 66. 67. & 68. this office.
Respectfully. J. W. [unintelligible] Commissioner.

RECORD JUN 1921 DIVISION

Fargo, N. Dak June 9th 1921
Bureau of Pensions,
Washington D.C.
Gentlemen:-
In the matter of James Harper who served in the War of the Revolution as Serg., Q.M.S., 2nd Lieut. and Lieut. Q.M. in 1st Virginia State Regiment, Col. George Gibson. In Capt. Thos. Hamilton's Co. as a member of the Regimental Staff from Sept. 14th 1777 to Aug. 28th 1780. Appointed 2nd Lieut. Dec. 7th 1778 Trans. to Regimental Staff July 1779. Granted War Bounty 2,148 of which following is a copy from Virginia State Records; "Richmond Va. Apr 10 1783 This may certify that Lieut. James Harper has been upwards of three years in the service of this State- signed Chas. Dabney Lt. Col."
I am trying to find date of enlistment, or, failing that, record of pension allowed him. If such records are not on your files, is there not some other Dept. of the Government through which it could be traced?
I should be very grateful for any help along this line.
Yours very truly,
Cozette Ramsey Rice
1001 Tenth Street So Fargo, N Dak.
It might be added that these dates are needed to complete record for entrance to D.A.R. - everything else being in complete order.
She is probably the same person as Mrs Burton Rice who wrote from same address & had been given the data but it had to be sent again as no actual proof of identity of inquirer.

Rev Rec 2/12
Fargo, N.D. Aug. 24th 1919
Dept. of Pensions.
Washington. D.C.
Gentlemen:-
None In the matter of James Harper born in Alexandria, Va. Enlisted in 1st State Va. regiment commanded by Col. George Gibson Capt. Hamilton's company- from 9 14 1777 to 8-28-1780 Bounty land allowed in full of services rendered- I am advised that the claim for pension should show date of James Harper's birth- also name of wife (supposed to be Ann) and date of her death .
If so, and you can give me this

additional data, I shall be most truly grate ful, as it seems impossible to obtain authentic records in any other way.
Yours very truly,
Mrs Burton Rice.
1001 Tenth St. So Fargo, N.D.

Rec. Sec. m
Fargo N. D. June 2nd 1919
Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.
Dear Sir.
Acting on a suggestion from the War Department I write for information concerning one James Hafer who served as Sergeant - quartermaster sergeant 2nd Lieut. and Lieut. quartermaster in the 1st Virginia State Regiment commanded by Col. George Gibson. Served in Captain Thomas Hamilton's

Company as a member of the - Regimental staff - Name appears on rolls covering period from Sept 14 1777 to Aug 28 1780 - appointed 2nd Lieut. Dec 7th 1778 and transferred to Regimental staff about July 1779.
Can you give me date of honorable discharge - and to whom pension was paid upon his death - also date of death. and any other data you may have on record.
I shall be most truly grateful for either information or any sug- gestion leading toward securing in- formation. Yours very truly
Mrs Burton Rice 1001 2nd St So Fargo N.D.

1893 40191.
X.
W.A.M.
Jad
Refer in reply to this initial:
B
April 18/93
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, GENERAL LAND OFFICE,
WASHINGTON, D. C., April 18 th , 1893
ADDRESS ONLY THE COMMISSIONER OF THE GENERAL LAND OFFICE.
60-221
Hon: Commissioner Bureau of Pensions.
Sir:
Replying to your letter of April 12/93. -O.W. & N. Dir- you are advised, that U.S. Land Warrant No. 2148. for 200, acres. late series. Revolutionary War, in names of heirs of James Harper, dec d who was a Lieutenant in the Virginia Line, was satisfied by the issue of Scrip. pursuant to the Acts of the 30 th May. 1830. and 13 th of July. 1832.
Said Scrip was surrendered, at Fort Wayne, Indiana. Two pieces of 80, acres each the 4 th quarter 1837, and one piece of 40, acres. the 1 st quarter. 1838. Numbered

Alexandria Va
Feb 2 a 1893
Green B Raum Esq Com r of Pensions
Sir:
Yours of the 26 th at hand and reply would say that I am trying to straighten out family affairs whilst I do not think James Harper of the Virginia State Line for 7 years services, ever received any U.S. Land warrants there was warrants from the Land Office at Richmond for about 8000 acres for services as a Lieutenant & Brigade Quartermaster and a warrant No 376 for 2666 2 / 3 acres was located, but can find but 900 acres of said warrant. Said parties refer me to your office for the information which I seek & he might have received U.S. warrants the same as John Harper. # If so I would like to be informed and if possible where located also where was John Harper's warrant located as there has been parties trying to quit title for Harper lands in which I am interested and I would like to be in a position to make my over

ORGANIZED DECEMBER 15, 1868.
CASTLE HALL
ORIENTAL LODGE, NO. 6,
.. .. K. of P. .. ..
Meets every Friday Evening in their Castle Hall, North Pitt Street, between King and Cameron.
H. H. HARPER, K. R. AND S.
Alexandria, Va., ..... 189
Dear Sir and Brother:
case clear & I would say in expla- nation that my Grandfather & Mother died when my father was a small boy & the estate of the family assets were divided but I have a full record from the land office at Washington as to our family & I can get the government gazette in such a way that I can see the information Helping that this covers all the information which you desire I would remain Respectfully Yours &c. Henry H. Harper 1070 S Royal St Alexandria Va

case clear & I would say in explanation that my Grandfather & Mother died when my Father was a small boy & the whole of the family records were destroyed but I have a full record from the Land Office at Washington as to our family if I can get the government grants in such a way that I can use the information
Hoping that this covers all the information which you desire
I would remain Respectfully Yours &c. Henry H. Harper 107 S Royal St Alexandria Va
Dear Sir and Brother:
Alexandria, Va., 189
H. H. HARPER, K. R. AND S.
Meets every Friday Evening in their Castle Hall, North Pitt Street, between King and Cameron.
ORIENTAL LODGE, NO. 6, K. OF P.
CASTLE HALL
ORGANIZED DECEMBER 15, 1868.

Alexandria V a Aug 28 92
To the Commissioner of Pensions
Dear Sir
By advice of the acting Commissioner of the Land Office Dr. J. R. Connell Esq.
I hereby asked to be informed whether Lieutenant & Brigade Quartermaster James Harper of the Virginia State line over

Revolutionary War. from 1776 to 1783. was ever the recipient of any U.S. military, Bounty Land warrants.
Hoping that this may receive your earliest attention
I would remain Your most obedient Sr.
Henry H. Harper 107 1/8 Royal St Alexandria Va.
over

were there any Warrants for land in favor of 1 st Lieutenant & Brigade Major issued from your office to John Harper of the 5 th Penn from 1776 to 1783 =
Resp - H. H. Harper
AG

Prince Georges County State of Maryland As wit.
Personally appears before me one of the justices of the peace of the above named County. Robert W Harper and made oath, in due form of Law that he is the Nephew and one of the Legal heirs and Representative of Lieutenant James Harper an officer in the Virginia State line and who was under the command of Colonel George Gibson and that Elizabeth Beale - wife of Thos W Beale of Alexandria District of Columbia - who was Miss Elizabeth Harper - and James Harper of Anne Arundel County and State of Maryland and himself are the only heirs. They being brother and sister of the deponent.
Sworn before me this Richd. D. Burroughs 5 th day of Feby 1835- " J. Pease

State of Maryland Prince Georges County S d
I hereby certify that Richards D. Burroughs Gentleman before whom the within affidavit appears to have been made, and whose name is thereunto subscribed was on the day of the date thereof and still is one of the State of Maryland Justices of the peace in and for Prince Georges County aforesaid duly commissioned and sworn.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the seal of Prince Georges County Court this fourth day of February Anno Domini 1825.
Aquila Beall Clerk
Prince Georges County Court

I hereby certify the following pages numbered from one to four to be true copies from the Originals, filed in this Office.
Given under my hand and the seal of the Treasury this third day of February in the year one thousand eight hundred and thirty- five.
Levi Woodbury Secretary of the Treasury.

(copy)
(1)
I Churchill Gibbs of the County of Madison and State of Virginia one of the surviving officers of the Revolutionary Army in the Regiment commanded by Col George Gibson - do hereby certify that James Harper, who was born and raised in the Town of - Alexandria Va was inoculated for the small pox. at the time that I myself was in the town of Alexandria in the Spring of 1777, we were both at that time Orderly Sergeants - In the year 1778. we were both Commissioned Lieutenants on the same day in the Regiment commanded by Col Geo Gibson, we both continued in service together until the year 1780, at which time he was sent to Norfolk Va and I recollect of hearing that he had the title of Col me but how he obtained the title, is what I am inclined to think I never knew - I recollect it was understood in Petersburg in the year 1780. that his appointment at Norfolk. was connected with the Navy - Given under my hand and seal this 9th day of November 1832.
Churchill Gibbs
Vol. Madison County to Wit.
This day Churchill Gibbs personally appeared before the Subscriber Justice of the peace in and for said County and made oath to the above certificate to which he has affixed his hand and seal. Given under my hand this 9th day of November 1832.
(Signed)
Pho R Gibbs.

(2)
I do hereby certify that I have a slight acquaintance with James Harper who resided in Norfolk about the year 1833 & that I always understood that the said James Harper was an officer in the Revolutionary army & was Brother to John Harper of Alexandria, and that Robert H. Harper, James Harper and Elizabeth Harper now Elizabeth Beale wife of Thomas R. Beale are the only surviving children of John Harper deceased
Given from under my hand this 29th day of April 1833. — Laurence Hooff.
District of Columbia } County of Alexandria }
—ed before the Laurence Hooff Personally appeared before the Subscriber a Justice of the peace for the aforesaid  Alexandria County and made oaths, that the several matters & things, set forth in the foregoing Certificate to which his name is subscribed are true
Given from under my hand this 29th day of April 1833. — Newton Keene

Norfolk Borough to wit
This day William B Lamb personally appeared before me Wright Southgate an alderman of said Borough and made oath that he was well acquainted with Col. James Harper of Norfolk. He is executor of his widow Ann Lindsay formerly an Harper & has purchased of R. W Harper heirs of John Harper a house & lot in Norfolk authorized in said Col Harpers will. He has not seen any of Mrs. Lindsay papers any note or memorandum of the period  time of Col. Harpers death but it must have happened between Febry. 1799 when the will was executed & the 20 th of May 1799 when it was admitted to record. The said James Harper was allways understood & reputed to have been an officer in the revolutionary war and this affiant has no doubt of that fact.
Given under my hand this 12 th day of August 1833
(Signed) Wright Southgate
Virginia Norfolk Borough to wit
J John Williams

4)
I John Williams Clerk of the Hustings Court of the Borough of Norfolk in the State of Virginia do hereby certify that Wright Southgate whose signature is annexed to the foregoing certificate is & was at the date thereof an alderman of the said Borough duly commissioned & qualified according to the constitution & Laws of this State and that his signature thereto annexed is his proper handwriting.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed my seal of office that is to say the seal of the said Borough Court this 14 th day of August 1883 in the 58 th year of the Commonwealth.
Signed, J n Williams C lerk

17/8 2/5 6d
Madison Ct Nov 10 th 5
12 1/2
Thos K Beale Esq
Alexandria Rm

I Churchill Gibbs of the County of Madison and State of Virginia one of the surviving Officers of the Revolutionary Army in the Regiment commanded by Col George Gibson do hereby certify that James Harper who was born and raised in the Town of Alexandria Va. was mounted for the small pox at the time that I myself was - in the town of Alexandria in the spring of 1777, we were both at that time Orderly Sergeants, In the year 1778 we were both commissioned Lieutenants on the same day in the Regiment commanded by Col Geo Gibson, we both continued in service together until the year 1780, at which time he was sent to Norfolk Va and I recollect of hearing that he had the title of Col - but how he obtained the title is what I am inclined to think I never knew I recollect it was understood in Petersburg in the year 1780 that his appointment at

Norfolk was connected with the Navy Given under my Hand and Seal this 9 th day of November 1832.
Churchill Gibbs Seal
In Madison County Kentucky This day Churchill Gibbs personally ap- peared before the subscriber a Justice of the peace in for said County and made oath to the above certificate to which he had affixed his Hand and Seal Given under my Hand this 9 th day of November 1832
CH R Gibbs

Capt. Baill
12/12 12/12 12/12 12/12

I do truly believe that I have a slight acquaintance with James Warner who resided in Norfolk about the year & that I always understood that the said James Warner was an Officer in the Revolutionary Army & was a Brother to John Warner of Albemarle & that Robert W. Warner, James Warner & Elizabeth Warner now Elizabeth Neal wife of Thomas K. Neal are the the only surviving children of John Warner deceased
Given from under my hand this 29 th day of April 1833
Laur. Hooff
District of Columbia County of Alexandria
Louanna Hooff in Affiant before the Subscribers a Justice of the peace for the above said County made Oath that the several matters & things therein in the foregoing Certificate is which her Name is subscribed are true
Given from under my hand this 29 th day of April 1833
Newton Beane

District of Columbia
Washington County, ss. Personally appeared before me a Justice of the Peace for said County this 4 th day of April 1836, Alexander Hunter Esq. and makes oath according to law that he knows, and has long known Mrs. Ann Hooff whose deposition is on the other side of this paper written, that she resides now, and has long resided in the Town of Alexandria & District aforesaid and that she is entitled to full faith, credit and also that he knows John Harper in the said deposition named, and that the persons therein stated to be the heirs of the said John, are in fact such heirs.
D. H. Morrell J.P.
District of Columbia
Washington County, ss.
upon the foregoing affidavit, it is this 4 th day of April 1836 ordered by the Court, to be certified that it is satisfactorily proved to the Court that William A. Harper, Robert Harper, James Harper, and Mrs. Thomas, A. Beal children of John Harper late of the Town and County of Alex- andria in the District of Columbia deceased are the heirs of James Harper a Lieutenant in the Revolutionary Army -
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the seal of the said Court at the City of Washington this 4 th day of April 1836.
W. Brent Clerk

Steph n County. Sept 20 th
February 16 th 1835. }
This day personally appeared before me George Wise a Justice of the Peace for the county aforesaid. Mrs. Ann Huff aged about seventy five years, and after being duly sworn, stated that she was sister in Law to John Harper late of Alexandria, that in the Revolutionary war an officer of the Army by the name of James Harper of Norfolk was in this Town & understood to be the Brother of John Harper, her Brother in Law. That the said Officer James Harper died without heirs and that his Bro. John Harper was his only surviving heir & that the said John Harper sub. left four children To wit William A Harper Robert W Harper James Harper and Elizabeth Beale, now the wife of Thos K Beale given under my hand this this day & date above written. I further certify that the above named Mrs. Ann Huff is a lady of great respectability & that her testimony is entitled to full credit
Geo Wisc

The undersigned
Wm A. Harper Will
Copy

The uncertainty of life renders it proper that every Man should make whilst in health and sound intellect, such disposition of the property of which he may die possessed as would be most pleasing to him receiving his family and friends from the unpleasant expediency when in hour of sickness and death. Under the influence of this opinion, I make this my Will and Testament. I give to my Wife Sarah a Childs Pro- -portion in all the personal estate and debts I hold and in the Real property in Alexandria, and in my interest in the Estate of Col: James Harper dec'd of Norfolk Va.
To my three Children George Guyther Harper, William A. Harper and Catharine Ann Harper the balance of the interests of the estates in Alexandria and Norfolk both real and personal and my three farms in Kentucky equally to be divided among them and all other property to which I may or might be entitled by reversions or otherwise; I giving my property thus equally and conjointly between them, I trust that it will not be the cause of any disunion or family feuds amongst them as has been between my Brothers & Sister but that they will alone be actuated by mutual love and affection for each other. I would recom- -mend that should any difficulty arise about a division that the difference be decided by Lottery or drawing, thus suf- -fering fortune to decide for them, what their Judgments cannot do. It is expressly to be understood that none of my Cousins, Brothers, Sister Aunt and Uncles &c. &c. &c. and their Children down to the third and fourth generation are to enjoy and possess any part and particle of any property that I possess and might be possessed of by right of reversion or otherwise, but that it is solely to be possessed by as before advised, and that in case of extinction of Wives or the part of my Wife Sarah Harper and my Children George Guyther Harper, W m A. Harper and Catharine Harper That

that then my property if any left, shall revert to the Me- chanic's Relief Society for the use and Education of poor children of the institution. I leave my Wife Sarah Harper Sole Executrix of this my Will. Signed & Sealed the 26 th day of August 1821.
Witness.
W m A. Harper
W m Phillips
W m White
W m Morgan
At a session of the Orphans Court for the County of Alexandria in the District of Columbia the 2 nd day of October 1821. This last will and testament of William A Harper dec d was presented to the court by Sarah Harper the Executrix therein named and proved in due form of law by William Phillips, William White & William Morgan, Witnesses thereto and ordered to be recorded. And at a Court the 19 th day of February 1822 (1822), Letters of Administration with the Will annexed, were granted to John F Green who gave Bond and security ac- cording to law. Sarah Harper the Executrix having deceased this life.
In
A. MOORE
Reg: Wills
District of Columbia Set
Alexander Moore Register of Wills for Alexandria County in said district, do hereby Certify that the foregoing is a true Copy of the last Will and testament of William A Harper deceased as on Record in my office
Given under my hand and Official Seal this 4 th day of April 1836.
A. MOORE
Reg: Wills

I hereby certify that George H Harper and and Catherine Harper are are the Heirs and only Heirs of William A Harper deceased and the individual persons alluded to in the will of said William A Harper a copy of which is presented to the Court, and the said George H Harper and  and Catherine Har- per are are the only Heirs of their Brother Wm A Harper and deceased who is also named in the will before alluded to given under my hand this 7 th day of June 1836.
John Lawson
Subscribed and sworn to before me 7 th June 1836 Geo. Taylor S. S.
District of Columbia County of Washington ss. Circuit Court March Term 1836
Upon the foregoing Affidavit, it is ordered by the Court to be certified that it is satisfactorily proved to the said Court that George H Harper and Catharine Harper are the only Heirs of William A. Harper Dec d & the only Heirs of their Brother Wm A Harper also Deceased.
In testimony whereof I William Brent Clerk of said Circuit Court for the County aforesaid do hereby subscribe My Name & affix the public seal of said Court for said County this Seventh day of June 1836.
Wm Brent Clerk

No. 122 June 1854
H. A. Dickinson Esq. Treasury Dept.
938.
647.

Dep t of War Penny L t Officer Jan y 22 d 1834
Sir,
I am informed by Mr. Thos R. Beale of Alexandria, Attorney for the heirs of James Harper, dec d . who was a Lieutenant in Col o Geo. Gibson's Reg t . Virginia line, that there is evidence on file in your Office, showing who are the heirs at law of said J a Harper, and that you are willing to furnish this Office with that evidence. If so, please send the document containing it and oblige
Yours Respectfully
Wm. Gordon
J. A. Dickinson Esq
Secy of War

These are all the papers filed in the case of Harper. You can retain what are necessary & return the others with a receipt for what you retain.
F. A. Jenkins.
All that was received on account returned.
J. G. Goodwin

148. Case of Lieut. James Harper
Respectfully submitted to the Secretary of the Treasury. R. Harrod Auditor's Office Aug. 27. 1833.
Not Allowed 336.

Case of Lieut. James Harper
The Name of James Harper is on the Original List of Officers of the Virginia Line received from the the Auditor of Virginia, as a Lieutenant in Service in the 1 st State Regiment commanded by Colonel George Gibson at £48. 00 , Virginia currency, per Annum half pay - on which List it appears that he was paid £1043. 00 6. 3 Principal & Interest of Commutation in May 1798
His Identity appears to be satisfactorily proven, that he died between the 27 February 1799 (the date of his Will) and the 20 May 1799 (the day on which it was ordered to be recorded) - By said Will he left his property to his Wife during her natural Life and other due to his Brother John Harper of Alexandria - by deposition of Lawrence Harper and that Robert W. Harper, James Harper, & Elizabeth Harper now Elizabeth Beal Wife of Thomas K. Beal are the only surviving Children of said John Harper - decd.
Thomas K. Beal as husband of Elizabeth Beal formerly Elizabeth Harper, and as Attorney of James Harper & Robert W. Harper - claims the Half pay now due to the Estate of Lieut. James Harper decd. after deducting therefrom £1043. 00 6. 3 heretofore paid as commutation
Auditor's Office
Nov 27. 1833
Wm. Parker
Register of Va half pay claims - shows that this claim was not allowed. It was filed Nov. 27, 1833 - and Thos. K. Beal was attorney - No explanation found as to non allowance -

18
Mr Robert W. Harper
Upper Marlborough Prince George County Maryland

Auditors office of V a
14 Nov. 1832
Dear Sir
I have examined the letter of Mr Harper which you submitted. James Harper was reported by the Board of officers in 1782 as a 2 d Lieut. in the V a State line, and he is stated to have been in service when the Board sat. I find no proof in this office, of the time when his service commenced. It appears that he received his commutation pay amounting to £1043. 6. 3 principal and interest in 1791. I presume that he is entitled to half pay for life under the last act of Congress and the decision of the Secretary of the Treasury deducting the amount of commutation received as above. Application for the half pay must be made by his heirs at the Treasury Department Washington.
Yours very respectfully,
J. M. E. Heath.
Mr Grotter.

Dear Robert
Richmond 17 th Nov r 1832
I have attended to your request as you will perceive by the first page of this letter. I called upon the Auditor last Monday, having left your letter the day I received it, he told me it would be out of his power to attend to it under three or four days on account of business and I did not receive it until yesterday at the date 14.
While writing to me on business it would have afforded me pleasure to hear how you are situated. As you may wish to know something about my own affairs I will briefly state that in 1806 I removed to this city, in 1808 I married, in 1809 commenced business and in the fall of 1818 declined business & have been without regular employment ever since. I do not however lead a lazy life, as I find employ in my garden and flower yard. In 1828 the Lord opened my eyes & led me to give up my sinful companions, since which I have been endeavouring to live to his Glory. My Eldest Son embraced Religion finishing his studies at the University of Virg a where he distinguished himself and obtained the reputation of a Scholar, and is now living with me the Word of God in order to the Ministry. He was married to a pious girl and is the Father of a boy 6 months old. I have 2 other sons, one 19 the other 17 and an only daughter 12 yrs. of age. The Lord has dealt bountifully with me and I may truly say goodness and mercy hath followed me all the days of my life. I have often prayed for you as one of my relations (without knowing you were in existence) and hope you will remember me at a Throne of Grace if you have been led to bow the knee in thankfulness to that God from whom all blessings flow. If you are not living for Eternity let me ask you one question "What will it profit you if you gain the whole world and lose your own Soul?" The last four years of my life is the only part upon which I can look back with pleasure, altho' I used to be called a very happy man. Let me earnestly recommend to you the Religion of Jesus as calculated to make us happy in life happy in death and happy throughout eternity. My Wife is living and with me endeavouring to serve the Lord. Remember me affectionately to any of my relations who are living for eternity and believe me Your sincere well wishes & relation (M c Grath)

Norfolk Borough Court
This day William B. Lamb personally appeared before me Wright Southgate an alderman of said Borough and made oath that he was well acquainted with Col. James Harper of Norfolk. He is executor of his widow Ann Lindsay formerly Ann Harper and has purchased of Robert W. Harper and James Harper heirs of John Harper a house. Sit in Norfolk devised in said Col. Harper's will. He has not seen among Mrs. Lindsay's papers any note or memorandum of the period of Col. Harper's death. but it must have happened between February 1799 when the will was executed & the 20 th of May 1799 when it was admitted to record. The said Col. James Harper was always understood & reputed to have been an officer in the Revolutionary War and this appears has no doubt of that fact. Given under my hand this 14 th day of August 1833.
Wright Southgate
Virginia Norfolk Borough to wit:
I John Williams clerk of the Hustings Court of the Borough of Norfolk in the State of Virginia do hereby certify that Wright Southgate whose signature is annexed to the foregoing certificate is and was at the date thereof an Alderman of the said Borough duly commissioned and qualified according to the Constitution and Laws of this State and that his signature thereto annexed is in his proper hand writing.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of Office that is to say the seal of the said Borough Court this 14 th day of August 1833 in the 58 th year of the Commonwealth.
Jno Williams c:c

James Harper N o 2148.
200 acres
Rev War
County Land Warrant No 2148. for 200 acres. on services of Lieutenant James Harper of Geo. Gibson's Pa. Regt. was allowed June 8, 1836. to Robert W. Harper & others. Warrant delivered to Thos. H. Beale.
(above taken from county land register)

April 12/93 To G.L.O. Where was unlocated TC Jan 19/93 To H.H. Harper copy of Land office letter.

DEPARTMENT OF WAR.
Regulations for the heirs of Officers and Soldiers of the Revolutionary Army, who were slain by the enemy, or who have died since the war, and have not received land from the United States.
By an Act of Congress of the 16th September, 1776, it is provided, that the Officers and Soldiers who engaged for, and continued to serve during the war, or until discharged by Congress, and the heirs of such Officers and Soldiers as shall be slain by the enemy, shall receive land in proportion to their rank.
N. B. Those who engaged for three years, or for any other period than during the war, or who died of sickness, fatigue, or casualty, are not entitled to land from the United States.
The following declaration (and enclosed blank form of heirship) must be filled up and signed by the proper authorities :
State of Maryland } County of Prince George }
I, Robert W Harper one of the heirs at law of Lieutenant James Harper do, upon oath, testify and declare, to the best of my knowledge and belief, that James Harper did enter the service in 1777, for the term of and served as a Lieutenant in the Regiment No. one under the command of Colonel Geo Gibson, of the Virginia line ; and that he continued in the service aforesaid until the close of the war
I further declare, that I have never received a warrant for the bounty land promised to Lieutenant James Harper on the part of the United States ; nor do I believe that he ever received it, or transferred his claim to it in any manner whatsoever : therefore,
Know all men by these presents, that I, Robert W Harper — aforesaid, do hereby constitute and appoint Thomas K Beall to be my true and lawful attorney, for me and in my name to demand and receive from the Secretary of War of the United States, a warrant for the quantity of Land due to me as aforesaid ; and my said attorney is hereby fully authorized and empowered to constitute and appoint one or more substitutes or attorneys under him, for the special purposes above expressed.
Attest, Richd. D. Burroughs
Robt W Harper
Personally appeared the above named Robert W Harper subscriber to the foregoing declaration, and made oath to the same, and in my presence acknowledged the power of attorney thereto subjoined to be his free act and deed, for the purposes therein mentioned.
Attest, Given under my hand this 18 th day of Dec r 1833
Richd. D. Burroughs Justice of the Peace. Prince George County Maryland
In testimony that the above written Richard D. Burroughs was a magistrate authorized to administer oaths, and take acknowledgements, &c., in the State of Maryland at the above date, and that his name there subscribed appears to me to be his usual signature, I have hereunto affixed the county seal, and subscribed my name and quality, at Upper Marlboro' this eighteenth day of December 1833
Aguiela Beall Clerk, &c. of Prince Geo. County Court. m c