In colonial times James Park a native of Scotland, lived in Tryon County, New York. During the American Revolution he served in the Indian Department at Fort Niagara. Following the war he lived in Stamford Township, Welland County. The Claim for Revolutionary War Losses of Archibald Thompson and James Park was heard by the Commissioners of Claims at Niagara on 23 Aug 1787. (AO 12 Vol. 28 P. 69-71)
To the Commissioners appointed by Act of Parliament for enquiring into the Losses and Services of the Amn Loys
The Memorial of Archd Thompson and James Park late of Tryon Co and Provce of New York – but now of Niagara
Sheweth
That your Memorialists at the beginning of the late unhappy disturbances in America was settled in Tryon County in the Province of New York where they were in possession of 12 Acres of Land with Buildings thereon Erected, Live Stock Household Furniture, Grain Farmg Utensils &c the whole valued at that time at £155.10 Cury
That understanding Parliament had taken into considn the distressed state of the Loyl American Subjects and purpose granting them such redress as may appear just & reasonable in proportion to their Losses
Your Memorialist therefore Prays &c
Schedule of the Memorialts Losses
12 Acres of Land— £48
Buildings £4— 4
Grain— 24
Household furniture— 36.10
Live Stock— 43
New York Currency— £155.10
Evidence on the Claim of Archd Thompson & James Park late of Tryon County
Archd Thompson – Sworn
He was at Niagara in 1783. Is a native of Scotland.
Came to America in 1773. Joined the Indians in 1778, served during the War.
He & James Park settled together on John Harper’s Land in Tryon County—never had a Lease or Deed, were to have had if the Disturbances had not come on—
They had cleared a little before the Disturbances thinks abt 12 Acres in the whole before they left it, had built a long House—
Had 2 horses 5 horned Cattle Cloathes furniture—Says the[y] joined Capt McDonell first in Augt 1777 – joined the Indians under Brant in 1778 –
James Park – Claimt – sworn
Says he came from Scotland wth Archd Thompson – settled as Partner in Tryons County – Went from Home with him and served in the Indian Department.
They took up 100 Acres, had not paid anything – had not any Deed or Lease, they were to have paid £20 – They Cleared 12 acres before they went away – most of it before the Rebellion broke out –
They had 2 horses and a Colt, 4 Cows and some young Cattle
The Rebels got them all
John Chisholm – Sworn
Knew both Claimts they went off with Witness, & several other Loyalists they served in the Indian Department –
They had Lands from Col: Harpur in Tryon County – thinks they cleared 13 Acres.
He saw 2 horses – 3 or 4 Cows, and altogether a nice Stock –
Capt Brant certifies to their Services and that they acted as Volunteers—
(AO 12 Vol. 109 P. 294 Certificate No. 1948)
Name of claimant Thompson Archd & James Park; Province N York; Claim for Loss of Property £87.9; Sum Originally Allowed £38; Total Sum payable under Act of Parliament £38; Balance After Such Receipt £38; Final Balance £38
The Second Report of The Bureau of Archives for the Province of Ontario, 1904 transcribed from Library of Congress MSS 18,662 Vol. XX MSS. 55 in Second Report P. 979
Proceedings of Loyalist Commissioners
Montreal 1787
Before Commissioner Pemberton
New Claim August 29.
Claim of Archibald Thompson & James Park, Iate of Tryon Co.
Repeats the evidences in AO 12 with the following marginal notes of the Commissioner:
“Good men to be allowed a little.”
__________________________
In colonial times Christopher Pearson a native of England, lived in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania then in the Burlington Patent, Tryon County, New York. During the American Revolution he served in the Indian Department then in Butler’s Rangers at Fort Niagara, then finally in Rogers’ Rangers. Following the war, he settled in New Carlisle, Quebec. The Claim for Revolutionary War Losses of Christopher Pearson was heard by the Commissioners of Claims at Niagara on 23 Aug 1787. (AO 12 Vol. 28 P. 87-90)
To the Commissioners appointed by Act of Parliament for enquiring into the Losses and Services of the American Loyalists
The Memorial of Christopher Pearson late of Tryon County New York Province
Humbly Sheweth,
That he was a Leather Dresser & Glover, residing at Burlington Patent old England District in the County of Tryon and Province of New York near Susquehannah before the unhappy Dissentions in America was driven from his Property on account of his Loyalty to His Majesty and attachment to the British Governmt and joined the British Army under Captain Joseph Brant and Colonel Butler Commanding a Corps of Rangers 8th November 1778 as Volunteer till he joined Colonel Butler at Niagara in the Capacity of a Soldier and discharged on account of his having a large Family to maintain at that Post – Afterwards joined Major James Rogers Corps of Rangers. —
The Property he was driven from at a fair appraisement is as follows, vizt
200 Acres of Land Freehold, 100 paid for and}
the Deeds lost} £44
16 Acres Cleared and Fenced with 2 lot Houses— 46
Live Stock £18. Bedding £8… 26
Household Furniture… 14.9.6
Farming utensils… 3.12
Books £1.5.6 Dressed Flax Grain bought for the army}
Crop left £11.2.6} 12.8
Clothing £6.10 Six Silver Tea Spoons & 1 Gold Ring £1.12 8.2
Skinners Tools & Glovers Tools… 3.17.6
Glover’s Silk, Brushers, Gloves & Buttons… 8.10
Carried Forward— £166.19
Amount brought forward £166.19
Taken Prisoner after attempting to join the}
King’s Troops when at Fort Stanwix 2d}
October 1777 discharged 31st December, lay
In prison 90 Days and maintained 2 Men}
besides himself, the […] Man a Labourer} 22.10
and Elisha Marsh his Neighbour –}
victuals Drink, Fire & Water Goal Fees}
Halifax Currency £189.9
Thrown out of Trade since the year 1776, on account of his Loyalty to His Majesty and attachment to the British Government when he was employed as Journeyman his Wages was one Guinea p Week – this leaves to the Honourable Commissioners to allow what they please—Christr Pearson
Evidence on the Claim of Christopher Pearson late of Burlington Patent, Tryon County New York Province. —
Claimant Sworn,
Says that in 1783 he lived at Machich made out his Account which is produced dated 5th September 1783 but could not get it sent. —
He is a Native of England and came to America in 1771 and lived some time in Philadelphia he afterwards went to Tryon County – Says that he never joined the Rebels in any respect – He was confined to his own House until 1777 when he joined the British Army, he enlisted in Butlers Rangers produces his Discharge he was afterwards in Major Roger’s Corps until the end of the War. —
He now resides at New Carlisle.
Property…… 100 Acres of Land in Burlington Patent, purchased in 1773, he paid £25 Pennsylvania Currency for it – He had Cleared 16 Acres and built 2 Log Houses, he valued it at £66 Halifax Currency. —
Clearance…. £46
Some Stock, Furniture &c
The Rebels took all. —
Produces Affidavit of James Astle 14th March 1786 that Claimant lived in good Repute and had Stock &c—
Quebec 2d August 1787
Further Evidence on the Claim of Christopher Pearson
Dennis Ryan Sworn,
Says he lived near Claimant before the War, he was a Breeches Maker, he hired a House and had some Furniture in it—
(AO 12 Vol. 109 P. 230 Certificate No. 1728)
Name of claimant Pearson Christopher; Province N York; Claim for Loss of Property £171; Sum Originally Allowed £30; Total Sum payable under Act of Parliament £30; Balance After Such Receipt £30; Final Balance £30
The Second Report of The Bureau of Archives for the Province of Ontario, 1904 transcribed from Library of Congress MSS 18,662 Vol. XI MSS. 12-13 in Second Report P. 331
Proceedings of Loyalist Commissioners
Quebec 1787-8
Before Commissioner Pemberton
New Claim August 29.
Claim of Christopher Pearson, Iate of Burlingon Patent, Tryon Co., N. York Province
__________________________
In colonial times Joshua Beebe born in America, lived on the Susquehannah River in Pennsylvania. During the American Revolution he joined Butler’s Rangers at Fort Niagara and died in the service. His widow Mary Beebe married second Christopher Pearson. Following the war they settled in New Carlisle, Quebec. Her Claim for Revolutionary War Losses was heard by the Commissioners of Claims at Niagara on 31 Jul 1787. (AO 12 Vol. 28 P. 310-311)
I Mary Pearson late Mary Bebee Widow to the deceased Joshua Bebee Farmer residing at Susquehannah in the Province of Pennsylvania was driven from our Property since the late unhappy Dissentions in America on account of my Loyalty to His Majesty and attachment to the British Government and my Husband and Son joined the British Army under Colonel Butler at Niagara 1st April 1777 and was sent with Dispatches from Niagara by the order of Colonel Boulton and Colonel Butler to the Royal Army at New York and delivered his Charge and took the Small Pox and died. – The Property I was driven from at a fair Appraisement is as follows.—
300 Acres of Land on Grant, but not paid for
9 Acres Cleared and fenced with Lot House £27.5
Stable and 2 large Corn Cribs… 3.15
Live Stock… 20.18.6
Crops left on the Ground… 23.2.6
Wheat and Corn left in the House… 1.12.6
Wool and Dressed Flax… 5.13
Farming utensils… 2.17.6
Household Furniture… 10.10
Halifax Currency– £95.14
Quebec 31st July 1787
Evidence on the Claim of Mary Pearson, Widow of the late Joshua Bebee late of Susquehanna Pennsylvania—
Claimant Sworn,
Says she lived at Machiche in 1783 – See Christopher Pearson’s Claim of the Province of New York
Her late Husband Joshua Bebee was born in America, in 1775 he was settled on the Susquehannah, he never joined the Rebels, but joined Butler’s Rangers in 1778, he went with an Express to New York from Susquehannah and died of the Small Pox in 1779 – Claimant came into Canada in 1778 and is now married to Christopher Pearson.
She has 7 Children by Bebee in Canada, Eden at Niagara 23 years – Seacord 21, Charlotte 20 married to S. Chatterton at Chaleur, Emeiser 18 – Easse 15 – Sarah 12 – Josh 10.
Resides at New Carlisle.
Improvements on 300 Acres of Land £27 – Stock £20 – Furniture – The Children will be well satisfied if she receives Compensation.
Produces Certificate from Captain Walter Butler that Claimant is Widow of the late Joshua Bebee who died at New York when sent there as an Express in 1778 leaving his family in Distress.
Decision of the Commissioners
(AO 12 Vol. 66 P. 47)
Mary Pearson late of Susquehanah River Pennsa
Claim
Amount of Property £84
Determination 8th November 1787
Loyalty. Bore Arms – The Claimant is a Loyalist & her late Husband Joshua Bebee was likewise a Loyalist & Bore Arms
Losses.
Real Estate. Improvements on 300 Acres}
on the Susquehanah} £18
Persl Estate. Various Articles of Persl Property 20
£38
Observation
Claimant has received £[blank] from the Governor of Canada for occasional Assistance.
Loss proved
Resides in Chaleur Bay
(AO 12 Vol. 109 P. 230 Certificate No. 1733
Name of claimant Pearson Mary; Province Penns; Claim for Loss of Property £84; Sum Originally Allowed £38; Total Sum payable under Act of Parliament £38; Balance After Such Receipt £38; Final Balance £38
The Second Report of The Bureau of Archives for the Province of Ontario, 1904 transcribed from Library of Congress MSS 18,662 Vol. XI MSS. 13-14 in Second Report P. 331
Proceedings of Loyalist Commissioners
Quebec 1787-8
Before Commissioner Dundas
New Claim August 29.
Claim of Mary Pearson, Widow of the late Jos Bebee, late of Susquehana, Pensilvania.
__________________________
In colonial times Jonathan Pell lived in Pelham Manor, Westchester County, New York. During the American Revolution he joined the British Army on Long Island, New York and served under General Howe. Following the war Jonathan Pell settled in Shelburne, Nova Scotia and later in Stamford Township, Welland County. The following is his Claim for Revolutionary War Losses heard by the Commissioners on 16 Dec 1785. (AO 13 Vol. 25 P. 418-426)
To the Honorable The Commissioners Appoint by Act of Parliament for enquiring into the Losses and Services of the American Loyalists
The Memorial of Jonath Pell
Sheweth
That before the commencement of the late War in America, your Memorialist resided on the Manor of Pelham, in the County of West Chester, in the State aforesaid & having taken an early and active part against the Promoters of the Rebellion & their measures was under the necessity (in the year 1776) of abandoning his place of residence & making his Escape to Long Island, where he joined the British Army under the Command of General Howe –
That a Part of the Army sometime thereafter marched from New York to the White Plains under the Command of Sir Henry Clinton and your Memorialist being acquainted with the Country offered his services as a Guide which was accepted of, & he accompanied them on that Expedition & returned with them to New York, and thereafter acted as a Lieutenant of the Militia at New York until the Conclusion of the Peace.
That your Memorialist became so obnoxious to the Rebels that they used every endeavour to distress him & to destroy his Property & were so successful, that they burnt a Sloop of which he was Owner, carried away two Horses and a Mare belonging to him, and confiscated a property belonging to him in the Bowery Lane of New York. –
That by these Losses your Memorialist settled in this Country under many disadvantages and has no prospect of surmounting them, other than by such Recompense as may now be given by your Honors. –
Your Memorialist therefore prays that his loss may be taken under your Consideration in order that he may be enabled under your Report to receive such aid and relief as his Losses & Services may be found to deserve
[Signed] Jonathan Pell
Estimate of the Losses suffered by the within named Jonathan Pell during the late unhappy Dissentions in America in consequence of His Loyalty to His Majesty and Attachment to the British Government.
To a large Sloop of the burthen of about 80 Tons burnt by the}
Rebells at Cowneck Harbour near Huntington in the }
year 1782 valued at …………………………………..} £400
To a Mare bought of Joseph Rodman taken away from
Pellham Manor……………………………………….. 37.6.8
To a black Horse purchased from Samuel Rodman ………… 40
To a certain Lot or Piece of Ground situated in the }
Bowery Lane New York & confiscated and sold}
by the United States valued at ………………….} 700
New York Currency £1190.16.8
In Sterling £ 661.10.3
County of Shelburne}
Shelburne fs } Jonathan Pell in the preceeding Memorial Maketh Oath upon the Holy Evangelist of Almighty God That the particulars stated in the said Memorial are true, and that the Estimate contained on the preceeding page is a just & true State of the Deponents Losses suffered in consequence of his attachment to the British Government.
Sworn this 28th Day of March 1786
Before me
Valentine Nutter
Justice of the peace [Signed] Jonathan Pell
County of Shelburne}
Shelburne fs } Joshua Pell of Shelburne Esquire maketh Oath upon the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God that what is contained in the Memorial hereto annexed is true & that the Estimate also annexed is so far as the Deponent knows & believes just & true –
Sworn this 28th Day of March 1786 [Signed] Joshua Pell
Before me
[Signed] Valentine Nutter
Justice of the peace
No 46
Jonn Pell
New Claim Dd 3d Apl 1786
Rejected 7 Apl 1786
County of Shelburne}
Shelburne fs }
Jonathan Pell late of the Manor of Pellham in the County of West Chester & State of New York but now of Shelburne in the Province of Nova Scotia maketh Oath and saith, That he resided at New York in the State of New York aforesaid from the 15th of July, 1783, to the 25th of March, 1784. And this Deponent further saith, That he was utterly incapable of preferring or delivering to the Commissioners (appointed by Act of Parliament, passed in the Twenty-third Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, intituled, An Act for appointing Commissioners to enquire into the Losses and Services of all such Persons who have suffered in their Rights, Properties and Possessions, during the late unhappy Dissentions in America, in Consequence of their Loyalty to His Majesty, and Attachment to the British Government,) or at their Office, any Memorial, Claim, or Request, for the Aid or Relief, on Account of this Deponent’s Losses, during the late unhappy Dissentions in America, within the Time allowed by the said Act, for the Receiving such Claims, by Reason that this Deponent, during all such Time, viz. between the 15th of July, 1783, and the 25th March, 1784 lived or resided at New York aforesaid.
And that this Deponent was under the necessity of remaining at New York for the purpose of settling and adjusting some Business of his own & Matters entrusted to him by his Father until the Month of May One thousand and seven hundred and Eighty four, that the Deponent sent some papers from New York to his Father at Shelburne but the same came too late to be forwarded to make any Claim for him in England, the Person by whom most of the Claims were sent from this place to England having sailed before the papers came to hand.
Sworn this 28th Day of March 1786
Before me
[Signed] Valentine Nutter [Signed] Jonathan Pell
N. B. All new Claims accompanied by an Affidavit made pursuant to the Above Form (if the Faits and Circumstances stated in such Affidavit appear sufficient) which shall be presented before the First of May, 1786, will be received by the said Commissioners subject, however, as to the Facts and Circumstances stated in such new Claim, as well as in such Affidavit, to future Enquiry and Consideration, on the personal Examination of the Claimant.
Persons residing in or near Halifax, may make Oath to their Affidavit before the Commissioners; Persons residing at any other part of His Majesty’s Colonies, before the Governor, or any One of the Council of the Province, or Chief Magistrate of the Place wherein such Claimant resides.
[In the large Blank after the Word And, state the particular Circumstances which prevented the Delivery of the Claim.]
County of Shelburne}
Shelburne fs } Joseph Pell late of the Manor of Pelham in the State of New York at present of Shelburne in the Province of Nova Scotia Farmer Maketh Oath Upon the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God That in the year One thousand seven hundred and Eighty three Jonathan Pell of Pellham Manor aforesaid but now of Shelburne aforesaid sent from New York in the State aforesaid two Horses and a Mare to Pelham Manor to pasture there, That some short time after the said Horses came to the said Manor, a person calling himself a Serjeant in the American Army came and carried away the said two Horses & Mare against the will & Consent of this Deponent who used every means to prevent him from taking them away. And that the said Horses were never returned to the said Jonathan Pell or any satisfaction whatever made him, so far as the deponent knows or believes—
Sworn this 27th Day [Signed] Joseph Pell
Of March 1786 before
Me
[Signed] Valentine Nutter
Justice of the pease
County of Shelburne}
Shelburne fs } Enoch Hunt and Benjamin Palmer both late of the City of New York at present of Shelburne in the Province of Nova Scotia Farmers severally make Oath upon the Holy Evangelist of Almighty God, That in the Year One thousand seven hundred and Eighty one they were acquainted with Jonathan Pell than of New York aforesaid but now of the Town of Shelburne Gentleman & know that said Pell was at that time, & until the Month of April one thousand seven hundred and Eighty three when they sailed for this Province, in the Possession of a certain Lot or piece of Ground situated in the Bowery Land of the said City of New York with a good dwelling House and Outhouses built thereon. That the Deponents have been frequently on the premises, and verily believe that the same was at that time, well worth the Sum of Seven hundred Pounds current money of New York equal to Three hundred and Ninety three Pounds three shillings & four pence Sterling Money of Great Britain.
Sworn in Shelburne [Signed] Enoch Hunt
This 11th March 1786 [Signed] Benjamin Palmer
[Signed] Valentine Nutter
Justice of the peace
City of New York}
in North America} I David Campbell Attorney at Law and Notary public by Legal Authority duly admitted & Sworn residing in the said City of New York in North America do hereby Certify & Declare That upon the day & the date hereof being the Twenty third day of August One Thousand seven hundred & Eighty three Before me Personally came & appeared William Hunt of New York mariner Gilbert Theal of said City and Titus Knapp of the said City also Mariner who being solemnly Sworn upon the Holy Evangelist of Almighty God did severally depose & declare in manner & form following that is to say. —
The said William Hunt deposeth and Sayeth That the Deponent was Master of a large Sloop of about Eighty Tons burden, the property of Jonathan Pell Sometime of Pelham manor in West Chester County, That the said Vessel was in June One thousand seven hundred & Eighty two, lying at Cowsneck Harbour near Huntington, at which time a number of Armed Men, in whale Boats, came from the Connecticut shore, seized upon the said Vessel & Burnt her, And that the Deponent is of opinion that the said Vessel which was so burnt was well worth Four Hundred Pounds Currency—
The said Gilbert Theal deposeth and concureth with the said William Hunt in the particular above deposed to by him, excepting as to the Price of the said Sloop, which he declines to value he being no Judge in matters of that Kind. —
The said Titus Knapp Deposeth and Sayeth That he had frequent Occasion to see the Sloop mentioned in the preceeding Depositions That he heard she was burnt as mentioned in said Depositions and that this Deponent is verily of opinion that she was worth Four Hundred Pounds Current Money of New York. —
In faith & Testimony whereof as well the said William Hunt Gilbert Theal and Titus Knap as I the said Notary have Subscribed these presents and I have hereto affixed my Seal of Office the said Twenty third day of August One Thousand seven hundred & Eighty three. —
[Signed] David Campbell
[Signed] William Hunt
[Signed] Gilbert Theal
[Signed] Titus Knapp
William Hunt }
& others } Depositions
£400
Received of Mr Jonathan Pell the just and full Sum of twenty Guineas in full for a Black mare by Me
£37.6.8 [Signed] Joseph Rodman
New York
27th of Octor 1781
Received of Mr Jonathan Pell the just and full Sum of Forty Pound in full for a Black Horse By Me
New york
1 of March 1783— [Signed] Samuel Rodman
Witness [Signed] Joshua Pell junr
________________________________
In colonial times Joshua Pell a native of America, lived in Pelham Manor, Westchester County, New York and supported the British troops in New York during the American Revolution. Following the war Joshua Pell settled in Shelburne, Nova Scotia and later in Stamford Township, Welland County. The following is his Claim for Revolutionary War Losses heard by the Commissioners on 1 Nov 1783 and 16 Dec 1785. (AO 13 T 79/70 P. 37-42)
City of newyork in} John Pell of the County of westchester
North America } & State of new york maketh oath
Upon the Holly Evangelists of almighty God and Sayeth that when the Kings troops Landed in the Fall of the 1776 upon the manner of Pelham they carried with them from thence a great number of Cattle of all Kinds That amongst one parcel of Cattle which the Deponent Saw Carried away he saw some Cows belonging to Joshua Pell of the manner aforesaid but how many the Deponent Cannot say Deposeth that besides the Said Cows he saw Driving away as Said a pair of oxen and a Bull which he knew to be the property of Said Joshua Pell.
Newyork 3 Sep 1783 John Pell made his mark.
Sworn before me [Signed] David Campbell
The Kings Troops took from Joshua Pell at the Manor of Pelham in West Chester County—Vizt
1776
October
11 Milk Cows ……… at £10 ……... £110.0.0
1 large four years old Bull ………… 12.0.0
1 Pair of Oxen……………………... 30.0.0
3 Two years old Cattle at £4………. 12.0.0
2 three years old do ….at £6 ……… 12.0.0
7 Calfs …………… at 40/ ………… 14.0.0
16 Large hoggs …. at 40/ ………… 32.0.0
20 large young hoggs at 16/ ……… 16.0.0
20 Tons of Hay ….. at £5…………. 100.0.0
50 Bushels wheat … at 6/ ………… 15.0.0
£353.0.0
City of New York}
in North America} The before mentioned Joshua Pell maketh Oath upon the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God That the day the Kings Troops landed at the Manor of Pelham, the several particulars above specified were upon the Deponents Farm at Pellham Manor That the Deponent being with the Commander in Chief at this time, did not return to his Farm till after the Battle of White Plains. That when he came to his Farm the Cows & Oxen were gone, and thereafter all the other particulars in the said Account mentioned were taken, for the use of the British Army. And that to the best of his knowledge & belief the said Cows & Oxen were taken for the use of the said Army. —
newyork 15 Sept 1783 [Signed] Joshua Pell
Sworn before me [Signed] David Campbell
Government
1779 To Joshua Pell Dr
Janry To Three Cords of Firewood furnished to Capn Wickham of the}
Queens Rangers for the use of his Troop then Quartered } £30
at the Claimants House, Sign of the Black Bull in the }
Bowery Lane }
To the keeping of 29 Horses for 19 days at 2/ per day } 55.2
to be allowed the price of Rations } £85.2
City of New York}
in North America} Jonathan Pell of New York maketh Oath upon the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God that the above Quantity of firewood was furnished by the aforementioned Joshua Pell as charged in the affixed Account & at the price that Firewood was going at the time And the said Deponent further Sayeth that the number of Horses for the keeping of which a Charge is made in said Account were in Mr Pells Stables for the time therein mentioned & that the Charge made for the keeping is much below what the same actually cost said Pell [Signed] Jonathan Pell
new york 27 Sep 1783
Sworn before me David Campbell
City of New York}
In North America} Adam Fink Burcher maketh Oath upon the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God that a considerable number of Horses belonging to Captain Wickham’s Troop of the Queens Rangers were put into the Stables of Mr Joshua Pell in the year 1779 who then kept the House known by the Sign of the black Bull in the Bowery Lane That the Deponent does not know the number of the said Horses nor the time they remained in said Stables but that it was for a considerable time that is near about three weeks That the Charge made by Mr Pell for keeping said Horses is in the Deponents opinion very moderate & believes what he thinks they Cost Mr Pell himself – [Signed] Adam Finck
New york 29 Sep 1783
Sworn before me David Campbell
No 8 1st Novr 1783
Joshua Pell
Ex & Re[jected]
City of New York}
in North America} John Pell of West Chester & State of New York maketh Oath upon the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God & sayeth That when the Kings Troops landed in the fall of the year 1776 upon the Maner of Pellham they carried with them from thence a great number of Cattle of all kinds That amongst one parcel of Cattle which the Deponent Saw carried away, he saw some Cows belonging to Joshua Pell of the maner aforesaid but how many this Deponent Cannot say Deposeth that besides the Said Cows, he saw driving away as aforesaid a pair of Oxen & a Bull which he knew to be the property of said Joshua Pell.
John Pell made his mark.
To the Honorable the Commissioners appointed by Act of Parliament for enquiring into the Losses & Services of the American Loyalists
The Memorial of Joshua Pell, late of Pelham Manor, County of West Chester & Province of N. York
Humbly Sheweth
That your Memorialist at the commencement of the late Rebellion took an Active part against the foremater of it, and opposed them with all his Interest and Influence, the Consequence of which was your Memorialist was obliged to leave his home, a part of the Rebels under the Command of a Rebel Colonel Dyer Troop being sent to apprehend him which they did accordingly, and altho’ he had the good Fortune to make his Escape from them they carried off several valuable articles the property of your Memorialist as specified in the Account hereto annexed.
That immediately after your Memorialist’s Escape from the Rebels he joined the British Troops in New York, and continued with the Royal Army till after the surrender of Fort Washington, during which he gave every necessary Information with respect to the Country, and conducted the Army from place to place till they attacked the Rebels at White Plains.
Your Memorialist has finally been obliged to quit his Native Country with a family of Eight Children and to leave behind him vast Estates that afforded him every necessary and Comfort of Life, and from which your Memorialist could have made ample provision for the whole of his Family.
Your Memorialist therefore requests your Honors will take his Case into your serious Consideration, and grant him such relief as to your Wisdom seem meet and your Memorialist as in duty bound will ever Pray—(Signed) Joshua Pell.
Estimate of the Loss of Property & Effects sustained by Joshua Pell in consequence of his adherence & Loyalty to His Majesty’s Cause & Interest in the late Rebellion in North America.
To a valuable Farm of about 200 Acres of Land on which} N. Y Curry
there was erected three houses & two Orchards with}
other valuable Improvements in the manor of Pelham} £4000
Westchester County in the State of New York ……...}
To an Estate of 20 Lots of Ground on which was a large }
Brick Building, called a Dwelling House (2 Story }
high) its dimensions being about 60 Feet in length } 4000
& 20 feet in Breadth, 2 large Rooms and other}
valuable Improvements thereon …………………….. }
To 66 Barrels of Port taken by the Rebel Colo Dyers }
Troop, with a part of the Rebel Army under } 528
His Command, valued by Joshua Pell at £8 p Bar. }
Carried forward £8528
New York Curry
Brought forward £8528
To 319 Pine Planks taken by Dyer Troop at 2/3d 35.17.9
To 132 ditto ditto ditto at 1/9d 11.11
To a Mainsail & Jibb 35
To a pair of small Seales & wrights taken out of a Sloop 2
To a pair of large Seales & wrights 6
To a Mare taken by another Party of the Rebels 25
To 150 Bushels of wheat taken by ditto 110
To a Sloop burnt by the Rebells about 30 Tons with}
Tackle &c ……………………………………..} 200
To 4 Horses taken at different times valued at £25 each 100
To a Schooner taken at Hell Gates, ransomed & paid 160
£9213.8.9
£9213.8.9 New York Currency is equal to £5374.10.3 Str at 4/8d the Dollar
Losses sustained by Joshua Pell from His Majesty’s Britanick & Hessian Troops in 1776. —
New York Curry
To 20 Tons of fresh Hay at £5 p Ton £100
To 12 Cows & one 3 year Old Bull at £8 each 104
To 7 Yearlings at £2 each 14
To one large pair of Oxen 30
To 16 large Hogs at 40/ each 32
To 22 Shoats at 12/ 13.4
To the damage made to a House property of J. Pell }
in the City of New York by the Hessian Troops }
being converted into a Barrack, the Stable they } 400
took down & carried the whole away………… }
To damage done by an Encampment of the army in }
A farm hired by J. Pell of the Attorneys of James} 500
Delancy Esqr on York Island adjoining the City}
To damage done by ditto on another Farm hired }
from one Heren near the City………………….} 200
£1393.4
£1383.4 in N. Y. Curry is equal to £812.14 Sterlg at 4/8d p Dollar
Evidence in the Case of Joshua Pell Esqr late of Pelham Manor New york — 16th Decemr 1785.
Claimant Sworn,
Saith, he is a Native of New York, at commencement of the troubles tried all in his Power to persuade the Rebels they were wrong in opposing Government, declared his Sentiments and endeavoured to convince people they were wrong, – had thereby made himself obnoxious. – Before the Troubles was first Lieutenant to the Militia of Pelham and New Rochell, and when the Americans took Arms his Company almost to a man chose him Captain, but he declined serving in the Cause of Rebellion. – He declined because he did not chuse to take Arms against the British Constitution. – Remaind in New York Province and made Excursions to collect Informion which might be useful to the British Army. –
Always avowed his Sentiments and declared against the Americans taking up Arms. –
He joined the British Troops soon after they landed in New York Island, had visited them before in Long Island, and went to get Information voluntarily—Went up the Sound to gain Intelligence. – Remain’d in the British Lines when the Army landed in Pells Neck, and during that Campaign acted as a Guide to the Army. —
Commanded a Company of City Militia in New York, Remained in New York till Evacuation and came to the Province of Nova Scotia and has continued there ever since. —
Allowance – Has received £200 from Government in Spring 1777, he believes a Reward for Service.
Produces Certificate from David Mathews late Mayor of New York to his honesty & unshaken Loyalty and to his suffering in the Cause which is as follows vizt
“I do hereby recommend the Bearer Joshua Pell to all his Majesty’s officers both Civil and Military as a person in whome the fullest—Confidence may be placed for honesty, goodness of heart and unshaken Loyalty. He stood forward upon every Occasion that offered to exert himself—in the Cause of His King, and has sacrificed a plentiful Fortune to oppose Rebellion.” — (Signed) D Mathews Mayor
Produces an Order from Governor Tryon in Writing dated 2d November 1776, to embody the Militia at White Plains. —
Property, — 200 Acres in Manor of Pelham in the County of West Chester, with three dwelling Houses, two Orchards, and Improvements. — This he possessed under Father’s Will. The Father died two years before the Claimant left New York. His father remained at New York, not in his sound Senses. The Will made before the Troubles. —
Property. Farm consisted of three Houses & two Orchards, Plough Fields and Mowing Ground, all enclosed with Stone Walls. – 20 Acres soft meadow, 40 Acres Wood land, convenient for Trade. — Thinks it would have sold at £15 p Acre New York Currency at Vendu. —
This farm has been sold lately under Confiscatn since the Peace. Wright in Possesion who bought it of the first Purchaser, Guyon Young as Claimant has heard. —
20 Lots in the Suburbs of New York, with a Brick House, Barn and Buildings purchased of Jas Delancy after 1778 in consideration of £2,975 N. Y. Currency bought a greater Number of Lots and sold off all but 20 Lots at £100 N. Y. Currency a Lot, at price he purchased. Claimant laid out considerable Sums near £600 in Improvements. – Purchased tho’ in War thinking we should carry the day. — Paid the money. — Delancy Warranted tho’ not so fully as Claimant wish’d.
The States have confiscated this before the Peace and have sold it before the Peace as the Property of Delancy. —
Claimant gave a fair price. – would not have sold it for that Sum. — Claimants Name not in the Act of Confiscation. —
Claimant produces Copy of Presentment by Grand Justices of West Chester County against Claimant for adhering to the Enemies of the State at the General Session of Peace 7th Novemr 1780. — Indorsed Judgment entered 26th October 1782. —
When he was going away he had put 66 Barrels of Pork on board the Sloop, when the American Troops came down under Colonel Dyer Troop on purpose against him as he understood. Claimant made his escape at the back Door, the troops then took the BarreIs of Pork. —
Property. Produces an Account signed by Dyer Troop certifying his having taken from the Claimant for use of the American Army
54 Barrels of Pork ….. at £6.10 ............. £351. 0. 0
319 Pine Planks …….. at 2/6d .……….. 35.17. 9
132 Boards …………. at 1/9 …………. 11.11. 0
15 ¾ lb Lead ……….. at 6d …………... 7.10
Mainsail and Gibb valued at ………….. 15. 0. 0
Cerified at follows £413.16.7
East Chester October 3rd 1776
“The within is a true account of Articles taken from the within named Pell he having absconded”
(Signed) Dyer Troop
This Certificate appears by Affirmatoin of Benjamin Pell to have been procured from Colonel Dyer Troop when the Property was seized by him. —
The Claimant saith these prices are under the usual Price – But Claimant claims now accords to the price in the Certificate & accords to that Quantity.—
A Mare taken from the Claimant by the Rebels, at what time he does not recollect, va1ue £25.
150 Bushels of wheat taken a year afterwards by a Party of Rebels just reaped – whether they came on purpose cannot Say Value £l10 N. Y. Curr y.
A Sloop &c 30 Tons Burthen which Claimt kept for fetching Wood, burnt more than a year after he left his house, he made profit by employing her in fetching Wood – burnt in the Creek by the Americans – value £150 New York Currency. —
Property. Four horses, – two of them taken where the wheat was, other two taken from his Son & wife by a Party of Rebel Troops – value £20 each…. £80.0—
A Schooner taken & Ransomed in 1782 by an American Boat in Hell Gate. Claimt. paid for Ransom, £160—
States damage by British & Hessian Troops in 1776 and Stock &c. furnished to them. —
Claimant never got any thing from Government, but the £200 — cannot say what that £200 was for.
Damage to House &c – £400 New York Currency converted into Barracks for Hessians – applied to Barrack Master but could get nothing
As to 20 Tons of Hay Cows &c &c Claimant waves his Claim now, which Claimant however says, were taken by the British Troops.
This House in New York had been conveyed by Jekel Archer to the Claimant in Satisfaction of Debt Claimant had Mortgaged it for £200 which saved it from Confiscation. — Claimant now Claims only for Damage done – He produces Affidavit by three persons who state the Damage at £200 the Stable & £200 for the House.
In the year 1781 part of the British Troops encamped and did him damage on his farm, hired of Delancy to amount of £500 N. Y. Currency. — Is told he should have applied to Quarter Master. Claimant submits. —
Damage to another Farm rented from Heron, by an Encampment of British to amount of £200 – Is told as above and Submits. —
Certificate is produced 27th November 1783, from Notary Public stating that the Claimant Swore to his Loss to the value of £1,393.4 N. Y. Currency by the Hessians and British Troops and that he had received from Government only £200 Sterling, which he looked upon as Payment for Loss of Shop Goods and Clothing taken by the Hessians not included in the above Charge. —
Mr Isaac Wilkins Sworn, Says,
Claimant’s Character in Loyalty established in 1776, sided with the Loyalists openly, – always avowed his Sentiments, Uniformly Loyal, Employed as a Guide, and was of signal Service to the British Army. — Knew he was settled on a Farm in Pelham Manor, – such Land worth from 15 to £20 p Acre New York Currency. – Believes that this property is all lost. —
London 16th February 1789
James Delancey Esqr Sworn
Says, that in or about 1778, Joshua Pell purchased from his attorneys Thomas Jones & Staunton 32 Lots in the Suburbs of New York – he paid £3225 New York Currency, he paid the Price in Cash. —
Mr Delancey understands that he sold 10 of these Lots, it was part of he Agreement that Mr Pell was to sell to the Tenants on these Lots at the price he paid Mr Delancey. —
Mr Delancey valued these Lots at £100 Crrency each prior to the War. —
The Ground of 2 Lots was occupied by a Street so that in fact he lost 2 Lots. —
They were sold as Mr Delancey’s Property, and are included in Mr Anstey’s Account of Mr Delancey’s Property sold under Confiscation. —
A small Consideration was paid to Mr Delancey for the Houses – But he understands that Mr Pell laid out some Money on the Property. —
Witness declares that no part of these 32 Lots is claimed by him. —
Further Examination of the Claim of Joshua Pell
(AO 12 Vol. 74, P. 11-18)
Office of American Claims
17th June 1789
Present
Mr Pemberton
Mr Mackenzie
Examination on the Demand of Joshua Pell Senr late of the Province of New York
Demand
20 Tons of fresh Hay at £5 p Ton £100.0.0
12 Cows & one 3 year Old Bull at £8 each 104.0.0
7 Yearlings at £2 each 14.0.0
1 large pair of Oxen 30.0.0
16 large Hogs at 40/ each 32.0.0
22 Shoats at 12/ 13.4.0
damage done to a House in New York}
occupied s a Barrack by the Hessians} 400.0.0
damage done by an Encampment on}
a Farm rented of James DeLancy} 500.0.0
damage done to another rented Farm}
called Heron’s Farm} 200.0.0
New York Currency £1393.4.0
Sterling 783.13.6
Memorial read
Joshua Pell Senr Examined
Refers to proceedings before the Commrs in America for Proofs of his Loyalty and Attachment to the British Government.
This Claim was included in Joshua Pells original State of Losses enquired into in Nova Scotia, and disallowed as not coming properly under the Cognezance of the Board at that Time
20 Tons Hay. This Hay was upon a Property of the Claimants called Pelham in West Chester County. It was taken away by a Captain Campbell as he was informed by his wife, upon the Kings Tropps first Landing on that side, in or about the Month of October 1776, he has not any receipt to produce, nor was any given owing to the Ignorance of Mrs Pell.
He applied to Captain Campbell afterwards for a Receipt or Certificate which he never could obtain, and of course could not be paid
He charges at £5 Currency per Ton £100
13 Cows and Pair of Oxen. These Cattle were driven off by Order of Colo Robert Rogers of the Queens Rangers in October 1776 as appears by a Certificate produced from said Colonel Rogers dated 9th June 1789 Stating “that he did Order the Officer 7th Day in the month of October 1776 at the request of Joshua Pell to drive off his Cattle to the Kings Army from his Plantation at Pelham and that between 30 and 40 head of Cattle were delivered to one if the Deputy quarter master generals either Colonel Sheriff or Captain Bruen and believes that Joshua Pell never received any Payment for said Cattle”
The charge is £134
Vizt Grown Cattle at £8/
Oxen 10£
It was not in his power to obtain any receipt or Certificate at the Time, and tho’ he afterwards frequently applied he never could obtain any redress and has not to this day received any Compensation for the said Cattle.
16 large Hogs 22 Shotes 7 Yearlings. These were taken by Individuals immediately upon their Landing, and was it impossible for any one under such circumstances to obtain Receipts.
He charges the Hogs at £40/
The Shotes at 12/
The yearlings at 40/ making £39.4.0
House and Stable at New York. This was not his own Property, he had a mortgage upon it for £600, he afterwards assigned over to another Person £200 part of the same mortgage making his present demand on Account of the Damages done to this Property only £400.
The House was occupied by the Hessians as a Barrack near two years. Damages it fully to the Amount stated took down and carried away the Stable wholly.
Damage done to a Farm by Incampment. He rented a Farm from James DeLancey Esqr, adjoining New York, which he fenced at a very considerable expence.
The Kings Troops having occasion to encamp thereon in the Summer of 1781, great part of the Fencing was destroyed and he was otherwise deprived of the Profits of the Pasturage wherein he sustained a Loss of £500 at least.
Incampment on Herons Farm. Precisely under the same Circumstances occasioning to him a further Los of £200.
He has not any acknowledgement to produce from persons in Authority relative to this, but desires Captain Benjamin Ogden may be esamined.
Joshua Pell
Sworn before the Commissioners at their office in Lincolns Inn Fields 17th June 1789
Witness James Betts
Anthony Scott
17th June 1789
Capt Benj Ogden Examined says
House and Stable in New York. He knows that these Premises were for some time occupied by the Hessians as Barrack, by which it was considerably damaged to the amount as he should think of £150 or £200, and the Stable was totally taken away the value of which was about £100
He understood that this Property did not belong to Joshua Pell, but that he had a mortgage on it
Damage done by Incampment. He also knew the Farms held by Joshua Pell from James DeLancey Esqr, and Mr Heron. The Troops incamped thereon in 1777 and again in 1781; in 1777 the damage was not so considerable as in 1781, when the Farms were well fenced and to the best of his Judgement Mr Pell sustained a Loss in the course of those two years by the said Incampments in Fence, Pasturage &c to the amount of not less that £700 he should rather incline to think more.
Benjn Ogden
Sworn before the Commissioners at their
Office in Lincolns Inn Field the 17th June 1789
Witness James Betts
Anthony Scott
30th June 1789
Geo Birks Examined says
That upon the Kings Troops first crossing from Long Island to the side of New York, he was employed as an Appraiser of Cattle taken for the Public Serice – that when at Frogs Neck, Mr Christie the Deputy Commissary General sent for him, and said that Colonel Robert Rogers was acting very improperly with respect to Cattle, directing him to go and take from him all the Cattle he had collected. It was expected he had a great number but to his surprise he found only ten or twelve, and whether any of these belonged to Joshua Pell or not he can’t say – that it was an instruction to him to give receipts or Certificates for whatever Cattle were delivered to him, specifying the weight and value, which when produced to the Commissary were duly Paid – To the best of his Recollection he only gave receipts for two Cattle taken by Colonel Rogers, but he presumes that Colonel Rogers must have seized many more, as he generally was in Front of the Army, how he disposed of them is a point he can’t speak to.
With respect to Joshua Pell’s Cattle he concludes they must have been driven off with others, but of this he has not any personal Knowledge.
George Birks
Sworn before the Commissioners at their
Office in Lincolns Inn Field 30th June 1789
Witness James Betts
Report
There is reason to conclude from the Deposition of the Claimant, his known good Character, and other Evidence produced, that some Cattle and Hay were taken from his Farm in West Chester County New York in 1776, and consumed by the Troops tho’ Receipts were not obtained at the Time.
The House for which a Charge is made was not the Claimants Property.
With respect to the Farm, he may have sustained Losses by the Destruction of Fencing during the Incampment, and by being deprived of the Profit of Cultivation, but the Charge for the Loss of that profit, as stated, is improper, it having been proved in the Case of James DeLancey, the Proprietor of said Farm, that no Rent was paid for the Land during that Time.
The Commissioners, however consider that the Public has benefited by and been the Cause of some Lott to the Claimant – considering also, that he has come from Nova Scotia to Britain for the Purpose of prosecuting this demand, They are of Opinion that one Hundred and Fifty Pounds would be an Equitable Compensation, and recommend the same accordingly £150
J. Pemberton
Robert Mackenzie
(AO 12 Vol. 109 P. 248 Certificate No. 1698)
Name of claimant Pell Joshua; Province N. York; Claim for Loss of Property £6187.4; Sum Originally Allowed £1630; Total Sum payable under Act of Parliament £1630; Sum already Received £602; Balance After Such Receipt £970; Final Balance £970
The Second Report of The Bureau of Archives for the Province of Ontario, 1904 transcribed from Library of Congress MSS 18,662 Vol. I MSS. 20-25 in Second Report P. 499
Proceedings of Loyalist Commissioners
Halifax, 1785-6
Before Commissioner Pemberton
1785, December 16th.
Case of Joshua Pell, late of Pelham Manor, N. York, Esq.
Repeats the evidences in AO 12
__________________________
In colonial times John Pell lived near Frog’s Point, Westchester County, New York. During the American Revolution he joined the British Army in New York. Following the war John Pell settled in Shelburne, Nova Scotia. The following is his Claim for Revolutionary War Losses heard by the Commissioners on 16 Dec 1785. (AO 13 Vol. 8 P. 1-13)
There is considerable repetition in the following claim including both original documents and the Commission Office’s own transcript of them.
John Pell
No 151
Put up the 16th Novemr 1790
Office of American Claims
29th November 1788
Present
Colonel Dundas
Mr Mackenzie
Examination on the Demand of John Pell of the Provce of N York
Demand
21 Milch Cows at £10 each …… £210
8 Fat Cattle at £10 each ……….. 80
17 Fat yearlings at £4 …………. 68
18 Calves @ 30/ ……………… 27
2 Yoke of Oxen at £40 ……….. 80
110 Sheep at 20/ ……………… 110
80 Hogs at 40/ ………………... 60
7 Horses at £12 ………………. 84
£719
Memorial read
Revd John Paterson Examined
Examinant produces Power of Attorney from John Pell dated at New York 23d Octr 1783 appointing Examinant his Attorney.
Also read a Letter from Gilbert Totten dated Annapolis Nova Scotia 15th Novr 1786 stating that John Pell was then there – that he had come thither from New York, in order to lay his Claim before the Commissioners, but that it was too late to be admitted – That he had been stripped of all his property by Confiscatn of the State of New York – and was reduced to great distress.
Examinant has been informed that Claimant has since rented a farm on Governor’s Island in the State of New York and believes he still lives there, he was by Reputation a loyal Man – and – when the Americans made excursions to West Chester he always took Refuge in New York – Examinant saw him there in the year 1783, he was there with his Wife and Family, and then informed Examinant that he had been dispossessed of his landed property & had been driven by Distress to live in a Barn belonging to one of his Neighbours.
Examinant states as a further proof of Claimants Loyalty, that he offered to transfer for the whole of his Claim to him for £100 to enable him and his family, to go to Nova Scotia, on the Evacuation of New York.
Examinant does not know anything of the loss of the property claimed from his own personal knowledge, but says the papers relative thereto, were lodged with the Board of Claims at New York. He received the account stated in the Memorial from the Claimant, and supposed the prices stated therein were the fair value of the Articles at the time the same were taken, but for more particular Information, he begs leave to refer the Papers laid before the Board of Claims at New York. (signed) John Paterson
Signed before the Commrs at their}
Office Lincolns Inn Fields 2d Decr 1788}
Witness} James Betts
Signed} James Hay
The following is a copy of the Demand and Certificate lodged before the Board of Claims at New York viz.
Government – To John Pell – Dr
1776 Octr 18th
To 21 Milch Cows … £10 each …£210
8 Fat Cattle ……10 …………….. 80
17 Fat yearlings ..80/ ...…………. 68
18 Calves …….. 30/ …………… 27
2 Yoke Oxen …£40 …..………... 80
110 Sheep …… 20/ …………… 110
80 Hogs ……... 40/ …………… 60
7 Horses ……... £12 …………… 84
£719
New York Augt 7th 1783
City of New York}
in America} Personally appeared before me the above named John Pell who being duly Sworn deposeth and saith that the things above stated were taken for and used by the British Troops – that for his Loyalty he has been turned off of his Estate and that he has never received any pay or satisfaction for the things above charged & furthr saith not.
Sworn before me}
this 9th Augt 1783} (signed) John Pell
(signed) Robt Auchmuty
not. Pub.
I do Certify that Colonel Rogers in the year 1776, at new Rochelle in West Chester County, delivered to me a Considerable Number of Cattle, horses, and sheep, which I was to Deliver to the Commissary of the British Army (thereof acting at that time) and no person else without his order, which cattle, Horses, and Sheep, I delivered to the said Commissary.
(signed) Jacob Frost
N Bevar, at that time Lieut. in said Regimt where Colonel Rogers Commanded. This is to Certify that in consequence of an Order from Head Quarters, I gave orders to Collect from the Manor of Pelham, sundry Cattle for the use of the Army, which was delivered to the Care of Lieut Frost, who had a Guard for that purpose.
(signed) Robert Rogers
Lt Col Commandt
Of the Kings Rangers
New York Augt 8th 1788
City of New York}
in America— } fs
Personally appeared before me Joshua Pell, who being duly sworn on the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God Deposeth and saith that when the British army landed at the Manor of Pelham he who was an Inhabitant of it, landed with them. That to his certain knowledge Mr John Pell of the same Manor had a large stock of Cattle on his Farm, which he verily believes was taken by and for the Use of the British Army, as the said Pell immediately complained that they were taken from him, that the Deponent then went to Colonel Rogers about them who told this Deponent that one of his Lieuts of the name of Frost, had his Orders to collect all the Cattle he could find, and return them to the Commissary, & that said Frost told the Deponent that he returned all the Cattle he had in care by Col. Rogers Orders, to the Commissary, which was what to the best of the Depts knowledge, that at that time passed – and the Dept has great reason to believe that the Claimant’s Cattle was among those taken as aforesaid—
(signed) Joshua Pell
Sworn before me this}
8th of August 1783 – }
(signed) Robt N Auchmuty
Not Pub
City of New York}
in America} fs
Personally appeared before me John Fowler of East Chester, who being duly sworn deposeth and saith, that he heard Col Rogers say, that he had taken the Claimants Cattle when he was on the Manor of Pelham and to the best of this Deponents knowledge and belief, he at the same time said that they were for the use of the Army.
(signed) Jonathan Fowler
Sworn before me this}
3d of August 1783— }
(signed) Robt N Auchmuty
The following Minute appears to have been made upon the Demand by the Board of Claims at New York—
The Proof is by no means satisfactory that these Cattle were regularly taken for the Public Service, or with any Intention of paying for them. A Certificate from Col Rogers in his present situation can deserve but little attention. —
1788 Novr 29th
Examination on
the Demand of
John Pell —
Office of American Claims
29th November 1788
Present
Colonel Dundas
Mr Mackenzie
Examination on the Revd John Paterson Attorney of John Pell late of the Province of New York in respect to his demand for
Demand
21 Milch Cows at £10 each …… £210
8 Fat Cattle at £10 each ……….. 80
17 Fat yearlings at £4 …………. 68
18 Calves @ 30/ ……………… 27
2 Yoke of Oxen at £40 ……….. 80
110 Sheep at 20/ ……………… 110
80 Hogs at 40/ ………………... 60
7 Horses at £12 ………………. 84
£719
Revd John Paterson Examd
(No 1) Examinant produces Power of Attorney from John Pell dated at New York 23d Octr 1783 appointing Examinant his Attorney—
Rec Read a Letter from Robert Totten, dated Annapolis Nova Scotia 15th Novr 1786 stating that John Pell was then there That he had come thither from New York in order to lay his Claim before the Commissioners but that it was too late to be admitted – That he had been stripped of all his property by confiscation of the State of New York & was reduced to great distress. —
Examinant has been informed that Claimant has since rented a farm on Governors Island in the State of New York & believes he still lives there. Claimant refers he was always by reputation a loyal man & that when the Americans made excursions to West Chester he always took Refuge in New York — Examinant saw him there in the year 1783 — he was there with his wife & Family, & then informed Examinant that the had been dispossessed of his landed property & had been driven by distress to live in a Barn belonging to one of his neighbours. Examinant states as further proof of Claimants Loyalty that he offered to transfer the whole of his claim to him for £100, to enable him to carry his family to go to Nova Scotia at the Evacuation of New York.
Examinant does not know anything of the loss of the property claimed from his own personal knowledge but says the papers relative thereto were lodged with the board of Claims at New York. He received the Account stated in the Memorial from the Claimant, & supposes the prices stated therein were the fair value of the Articles at the time the same was taken but for more particular Information he begs leave to refer to the Papers laid before the Board of Claims at New York
[Signed] John Paterson
Sworn before the Commrs at their Office in
Lincolns Inn Fields 2d Decemr 1788
Witness [signed] James Betts
[signed] James Hay
The following is a Copy of the Demand & Certificate lodged before the Board of Claims at New York—
Government
Joshua Pell
Memorial,
Power of Attorney
and
The Demand of Jno Pell
(with Certificates annexed)
is exhibited to the Board of
Claims at New York – which
are referred to in the
Examination on the Demand
of the said John Pell
To the right honourable the Lords Commissioners of his Majesty’s Treasury
The Memorial of John Paterson Attorney for John Pell, humbly sheweth.
That at the Beginning of the late War, the said John Pell did live near Frog’s Point in the County of West Chester and Province of New York; That when the King’s Troops landed from Long Island an officer being sent with a Detachment to the said Pell’s House, did take his Horses, Cattle, Sheep, &c. for the use of the King’s Army. That the said Pell did become a Guide to the Army through the County of West Chester on which account at the Conclusion of the Peace, He, with his Wife and six Children, was turned out of his House, driven off his Farm and obliged to seek a Refuge in a different part of the Country. That the said Pell did make out an Account of the Articles supplied the Army, and laid it, with the Officer’s Receipt who took them before a Board instituted at New York by Sir Guy Carleton, who did report thereof That is a Just and true Account, which account with the Voucher is in the Possession of Mr Thomas Coffin. And that the said John Pell did constitute and appoint your Memorialist his special Attorney to collect the Payment of the said account. Your Memorialist therefore humbly prays that your Lordships will be pleased to order the same to be paid.
[Signed] John Paterson
Janry 30th 1786
No 56 Polarid Street, Oxford Road.
Memorial of J Patterson
atty to Jno Pell
for value of Property
taken by the Army in America
No 398
R. 13th Feb. 1786
Read February 14
Govmt to John Pell Dr
Octr 18th 1776 Taken from the said Pell’s Farm for the Use of the King Army
The Memorialist begs Leave to refer for the Voucher to the Papers in possession of Mr Thomas Coffin
£719 N York Cury equal to £404.8.9 Sterling
Know all Men by these Presents, That I John Pell, Farmer of West Chester County in the State of New York —
Have constituted, made and appointed, and by these Presents, do constitute make and appoint my trusty and loving Friend John Paterson Chaplain to the Maryland Loyalists my true and lawful Attorney for me and in my Name and Stead, and to my Use, to ask, demand, sue for, levy, recover and receive, all Sum and Sums of Money, Debts, Rents, Goods, Wares, Dues, Account, and other Demands whatsoever, which are or shall be due, owing, payable and belonging to me, or detained from me any Manner of Ways or Means whatsoever, and in particular to apply for and obtain a certain Sum of Money due to me from the Government of Great Britain for Cattle taken from my Farm at West Chester by Col: Rogers for the use of the King’s Army in the year 1776 Giving and granting unto my said Attorney, by these Presents, my full and whole Power, Strength and Authority, in and about the Premises, to have, sue and take all lawful Ways and Means in my Name, for the Recovery thereof; and upon the Receipt of any such Debts, Dues, or for me and in my Name, to make, seal and deliver, and generally all in the Law whatsoever, needful and necessary to be done in and about the Premises, for me, and in my Name to do, execute and perform as largely and amply, to all Intents and Purposes as I myself might or could do, if I was personally present, or as the Matter required more special Authority than is herein given; and Attornies one or more under him for the Purpose aforesaid, to make and constitute, and again at Pleasure to revoke; ratifying, allowing, and holding for firm and effectual, all and whatsoever my said Attorney shall lawfully do in and about the Premises, by Virtue hereof. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and Seal, the Twenty Third Day of Annoq, Domini, One Thousand Seven Hundred and eighty three.
Sealed and Delivered [Signed] John Pell
in the Presence of
[Signed] Thos Robinson
[Signed] Thos Rooke
John Pell}
To}
Revd John Paterson} Power
Late Chaplain} of
of the Maryland Loyalists} Attorney
Government
1776 Octr 18 To John Pell on the Manor of Pelham
N york Augt 7 1783
City of New York}
in America — } Personally appeared before me the above named John Pell who being duly Sworn deposeth and saith that the things above stated were taken for & used by the British Troops – that for his Loyalty he has been turned off of his Estate & that he has never received any pay or Satisfaction for the things above charged, & further saith not [Signed] John Pell
Sworn before me
this 9th day of Augt 1783
[Signed] Robt Auchmuty
not. Pub.
I do Certify that Colonel Rogers in the year 1776 at New Rochelle in westchester County Delivered to me a Considerable Number of Cattle horses and Sheep which I was to Deliver to the Commissary of the British Army (thereof acting at that time) and no person Else without his order which Cattle horses & Sheep I Delivered to the said Commissary—
[Signed] Jacob Frost
N Bevar at that time Lieut in said Regiment where Colonel Rogers Commanded—
This is to Certify that in Consequence of an order from Head Quarters, I gave orders to Collect from the Manor of Pelham Sundry Cattle for the use of the army which was delivered to the Care of Lieut. Frost who had a Guard for that purpose
[Signed] Robert Rogers
Lt Col Commandt
of the Kings
Rangers
New York Augt 8 1783
City of New York} fs
in America} Personally appeared before me Joshua Pell who being duly sworn on the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God deposeth & saith that when the British army landed at the Manor of Pelham he who was an Inhabitant of it & landed with them. That to his certain knowledge Mr John Pell of the same Manor had a large stock of Cattle on his Farm which he verily believes was taken by & for the Use of the British Army, as the said Pell immediately complained that they were taken from him, that the Deponent then went to Colonel Rogers about them who told this Deponent that one of his Lieutenants of the name of Frost has his Orders to collect all the Cattle he could find & return them to the Commissary & that said Frost told the Deponent that he returned all the Cattle that he had in care by Col. Rogers orders to the Commissary which was what, to the best of the Depts knowledge, that at that time passed – & the Dept has great reason to believe that the Claimants Cattle was among those taken as aforesaid—
[signed] Joshua Pell
Sworn before me this 8th day of Augt 1783 – }
[signed] Robt N Auchmuty
not. Pub.
City of New York}
in America} fs
Personally appeared before me John Fowler of East Chester, who being duly sworn deposeth & saith, that he heard Colonel Rogers say that he had taken the Claimants Cattle when he was on the Manor of Pelham, & to the best of this Deponents knowledge & belief he at the same time said that they were for the uUe of the Army.
[signed] Jonathan Fowler
Sworn before me this
3 day of Augt 1783
[signed] Robt N Auchmuty
__________________________
In colonial times John Pencel a native of Germany, lived on the Susquehannah River in Pennsylvania then in Tryon County, New York. During the American Revolution he served in Butler’s Rangers at Fort Niagara. Following the war he lived in Cataraqui, Frontenac County. The following is his Claim for Revolutionary War Losses heard by the Commissioners of Claims on 30 Sep 1787. (AO 12 Vol. 28 P. 321-324)
Schedule of the Losses of John Pencel from Susquhana Tryon County and province of New York, but through Loyalty and attachmt to the British Government left the above named place in the year 1778 and Joined the Kings Troops and served until the Reducement of Col: Butlers Rangers and sustd the following Losses, vizt
Lands and Tenements £1000
Horses Cattle Sheep & Hogs 75.16
Bonds for Money taken by he Rebs 400
Farming Utensils and Househd}
Furniture} 24
New York Cury [Total] 1499.16
Evidence on the Claim of John Pencil late of Tryon County
Claimant – sworn –
Says he was at Mashish in 1783.
Is a Native of Germany.
Came young to America – resided at the Susquana, he served 6 years in Butlers Rangers.
His Father had 1000 Acres on Susquehana, he died 8 or 9 years ago – Claimant had an Elder Brother who was a Soldier with the Americans, died after his Father, killed in Action left Sons, who are of course Heirs –
Says his Father had given him this Land by writing 8 years before his Death – and Claimant was in Possessn Says he went to the Place a year before his Father.
His Father was then living on the Delaware, came from thence to Susquehana – 6 Acres clear built a small House. 12 Sheep, 2 Cattle, 5 horses – household goods and furniture and farming utensils all taken by the Indians his House was burnt and his Deeds & Papers destroyed.
His Father took up the land of Pens: Govnt 20 years ago no part was cleard till Claimt went there himself. Refers himself to Capt Caldwell –
Peter Wartman – sworn
Knew Claimant – Remebers his living on the Susquehana his Father and Mother lived with him does not know what Land they had, there was a Corn field. These were disputed Lands. Wits thought it the Fathers Land.
Decision of the Commissioners
(AO 12 Vol. 64 P. 24)
John Pencel late of Albany County
Claim
Amount of Property £843.12.9
Determination 11 December 1787
Loyalty. The Claimant is a Loyalist and Bore arms in Support of the British Government
Losses
Real Estate. Improvements on Lands on the Susquehanah £ 9
Pers Estate. Various Articles of Personal Property 48
£57
Claim disallowed
The Claim for 1000 Acres on the Susquehanah for want of Title
Resides at Cataraqui
(AO 12 Vol. 109 P. 250 Certificate No. 1741)
Name of claimant Pencel John; Province N York; Claim for Loss of Property £343.15; Sum Originally Allowed £57; Total Sum payable under Act of Parliament £57; Balance After Such Receipt £57; Final Balance £57
The Second Report of The Bureau of Archives for the Province of Ontario, 1904 transcribed from Library of Congress MSS 18,662 Vol. XXI MSS. 105-106 in Second Report P. 1040
Proceedings of Loyalist Commissioners
Montreal 1787
Before Commissioner Pemberton
September 30.
John Pencel, late of Tryon Co.
Repeats the evidences in AO 12
__________________________
In colonial times Hanjost Petrey a native of America, lived near German Flats on the Mohawk River in Tryon County, New York. During the American Revolution, he served in Butler’s Rangers at Fort Niagara then afterwards settled in Haldimand County, Ontario. The Claim for Revolutionary War Losses of Hanjost Petrey heard by the Commissioners of Claims at Niagara on 25 Aug 1787. (AO 12 Vol. 28 P. 45-47)
To the Commissioners appointed by Act of Parliament for enquiring into the Losses and Services of the American Loyt
The Memorial of Hanjost Petrey Late of Tryon County in the Province of New York, but now of Niagara in the Province of New York [sic] —
Sheweth
That your Memorialist at the beginning of the late unhappy disturbances in America was settled on the Mohawk River in Tryon County and Province of New York where he was in possession of a Good Farm – with Buildings thereon Erected Live Stock House: [house]hold furniture Farming Utensils Cloathing &c the whole valued at the time at £886 – New York Currency.
That understanding Parliament had taken into considn the distressed State of the Loyal American subjects and purpose granting them such relief as may appear just and reasonable in proportion to their Losses. Your Memort prays &c
Schedule of Memt Losses-
Land— £550
Live Stock— 123
Two Horses and Barn— 100
Chests and Family Cloathing— 60
Farming Utencils &c— 53
New York Currency— £886
August 25th
Evidence on the Claim of Hanjost Petrey late of Tryon County
Claimant – sworn
He is a Native of America – Lived at the German Flats when the Rebellion broke out – Took the part of the King – joined the Kings Troops at Fort Stanwix, served under Col: Butler.
Served 4 years as private, now lives at Niaga
Was possessed of 100 acres of Land in German Flats – He purchased it 2 years before the Rebellion Gave another Farm for it – 200 acres of unimproved Land. Had a Deed.
60 Acres clear, when he purchased it.
Says he built Log house and Barn after the Purchase – he built the House himself. Values it at above £600.
Does not know what is become of the Land. It was not sold lately.
Had 5 horses – 6 Cattle – 60 Hogs – 10 Sheep, Utensils Furniture Cloaths – Left in his House and taken by the Rebels. Produces 2 affts that Claimt was in possessn of Land Stock &c but they cannot say to what amount –
Mrs. Dorothy Thompson—Sworn
Knew Chaimt He was a Neighbour to Witness – lived at Burnels field 12 Miles from German Flats. He was very Loyal from the first, and suffered a great deal from it – he went off to Fort Stanwix – he served afterwards in Butler’s Ranger’s.
Knew his Farm, he purchased it 2 years before the War, thinks abt 50 Acres clear.
He was in possession till he went away to the British – he built an House there himself – He had a pretty good Stock, some was seized by the Rebels – some he was obliged to leave, from not being able to carry it away with him, as they fled, and went thro the Woods. Claimant seemed to be in pretty good circumces
He had the Land of Witness’s Husband and gave other Land in Exchange for it. She says it was 2 years before the War. Says the Land her Husband had was impd
(AO 12 Vol. 109 P. 250 Certificate No. 1754)
Name of claimant Petrey Hanjost; Province N York; Claim for Loss of Property £498.7; Sum Originally Allowed £220; Total Sum payable under Act of Parliament £220; Balance After Such Receipt £220; Final Balance £220
The Second Report of The Bureau of Archives for the Province of Ontario, 1904 transcribed from Library of Congress MSS 18,662 Vol. XX MSS. 31-33 in Second Report P. 969
Proceedings of Loyalist Commissioners
Montreal 1787
Before Commissioner Pemberton
New Claim August 25th.
Claim of Hanjost Petrie, of Tryon Co.
Repeats the evidences in AO 12 with the following marginal notes of the Commissioner:
“Is told to get Certificates of Sale.”
“N .B.—His name is in Anstey’s List.”
__________________________
In colonial times Nathaniel Pettit lived in Sussex County, New Jersey. During the American Revolution, he provided assistance to the British forces from his home. Following the war he lived in Grimsby Township, Lincoln County. The following is his Claim for Revolutionary War Losses dated 23 Dec 1785. (AO 13 Vol. 22 P. 204-208)
To the Honourable Commissioners for Granting Relief and making Restitution to Such of the American Loyalists as have suffered on acount of their attachment and adhearing to the Brititish [sic] Constitution & Government Now Sitting at [Nelata] &c —
The Pettition of Nathaniel Pettit Humbly Sheweth—
That your Pettitioner Lived in the County of Sussex In Provence of New jersey at the Time the unhapey Disputes arose Between Great Britton and the American Colloney and En[devouring] to Ser[ve out] the authority of his Majestys Government in the place he Lived having beane Imprisoned and find and otherwise suffer Damage (by people where the [……..] had no Legal authority took upon themselves the Power of government) to the amount of three hundred pound and represent when Should your Honours be please to Give him Leave & will make apear at Such Time as you will apoint For what Sufferings and Damage your Pettitioner [Humbly] Prays Such Releaf as you in your Wisdom will Grant and your Pettitioner as in Duty Bound Shall ever pray
(Signed) Nathaniel Pettit
23rd December 1785
A Short State of the Procedings against Nathl Pettit in the County of Sussex and Province of New Jersey
I plainly Saw the Necssety [sic] of Going over to the Brittish for Protection but Considering I was old and Infirm and Not able to Enter Into his Majesty’s Service and of Course Should have been Rather a burthen as it was Impossable for me to take anything with me or Should have been there Early in the Dispute and Could Not be preswaded that America Could Ever Prevale. Nevertheless when I found my Self Much Suspected was Prepareing for the Jorney when I Rec[ei]ved a Commition from General Skinner with advice to Stay where I was and Endeavor to Execute Said Commition at a proper Time tho Kept with the Greatest Cution possable a Suspition Got out and I was Laid hold of and Charged with being the being the head of a partye [sic]& Dangerous and held to Ene[m]y Bale Not being Satisfied with that I was Soon after Laid hold of again and with out aney Legal proof ordered to Goal in an other County where I was close Confind from 10th april till 27 May when I was under a Strong Guard Taken to the County where I Lived wher I was Close Confind in Goale untill Court where I was Indited and araigned. To which Inditement I plead Not Guilty Nevertheless allmost without Proof found Guilty of Speaking Seditious word & find & Imprisoned Cruelly as will apeare from Copies of Records of Said Court which Imprisonment I underwent in part and paid fine and Large fees In full before I Could be Disc[h]arged as I can Make apere at a proper time
yd 25th 1785
Nathl Pettit
No 1601
Nathl Pettit
New Claim
Dd 29th Ap 1786
Rejected
29 Novr 1786
Claimt was informed at
Niagara Sept. 87 that
his Claim cd not be
admitted
29th April pr
Joseph Crowell
__________________________
In colonial times Nicholas Philips a native of America, lived in Tunkhannock on the Susquehannah River in Pennsylvania. During the American Revolution, Nicholas Philips served in Butler’s Rangers then afterwards settled in Niagara. The Claim for Revolutionary War Losses of Nicholas Philips was heard by the Commissioners of Claims on 23 Aug 1787. (AO 12 Vol. 27 P. 401-404)
To the Commissioners appointed by Act of Parlt for enquiring into the Losses & Services of the American Loyalists –
The Memorial of Nicholas Philips, New York
Sheweth
That he has ever been a loyal subject to the King of Engd and will live and die with that Honour.
From the beginning of the Troubles in America in 1774 your Memorialist opposed the Rebellion and was seized and thrown in Goal by the Rebels for his Loyalty he was moved from goal to goal in Connecticut it being the fifth, and your Memorialist expected it to be his last prison before his Death, but he had the good fortune to escape Hartford Goal in 1777 and joined Col. Butlers Rangers a private Soldier & has since served in that Corps against the Rebels—
Your Memorialist many years before the Rebellion had been settled at Tunkhannock abt 40 Miles from Wioming on the Susquehannah River where he supported himself & Family in ease and plenty although now reduced to want in the Course of the War your Memorialists Houses and Buildings have been destroyed by fire and his Cattle killed your Memorialist is not able to give a full Schedule of his property lost but from his best Recollection exhibits the following account, the justness of which he entertains no doubt—therefore prays his case may be taken into your Consideration in order that your Memt may be enabled under your Report to receive such aid or Relief as his Services & Losses may be found to deserve
Nicholas Philips a private
In Col. Butlers Rangers—
Niagara Ocr 1783
Schedule of the real & pers. Estate of Nichs Philips
260 Acres of Land well improved at}
Tunkhannock lost in the purchase of} 330
The year……………………………}
A new elegant House & a large barn— 400
240 Acres with House & Barn………………. 360
10 Milch Cows 80l – 2 yoke Oxen 36l — 116
6 Horses 70l – 20 Sheep 15l – 40 Hoggs 60l – 145
Farming Utensils…………………………….. 80
Household Furniture uncertain……………….
York Currency…………….. £1431
Sterling…………….. £ 804.18.9
August 23d
Evidence on the Claim of Nichs Philips late of New York—
Claimant – sworn
He is a Native of America lived at Susquehana, in 1777 left his Home & joined Col. Butler in the Rangers, served 2 years was then taken prisoner and confined in several Goals made his Escape and got to New York from thence came to Montreal now settled near Niagara.
Had a proprietors right on Susquehana, it was a Disputed Title – but Claimt says he had Grants both from Pensilva and Connectt – A proprietors Right consisted of about 4000 Acres he had parted with ¼ —
He used to sow & plow 40 Acres
Says he had a set of Black Smiths Tools & paid 40 Dollars for it – he had a Log House & Barn he did it all himself – values clear Land at ½ [Dol] per Acre – Would not have sold […] Land for a Dollar per Acre –
He says the Pensilva Title used to be reckoned the best—
Says this Land was better than that on the Schohary for which Christler charges so high—
Decision of the Commissioners
(AO 12 Vol. 66 P. 50)
Nicholas Phillips late of Pennsa
Claim
Amount of Property £804.18.9
Determination 6th December 1787
Loyalty. Bore Arms – The Claimant is a Loyalist & Bore Arms in Support of the British Government
Losses.
Real Estate. Improvements on Lands on}
the River Susquehanah} £ 90
Persl Estate. Various Articles of Persl Property 94
£184
Loss Proved
Resides at Niagara
The Second Report of The Bureau of Archives for the Province of Ontario, 1904 transcribed from Library of Congress MSS 18,662 Vol. XX MSS. 19-21 in Second Report P. 964
Proceedings of the Loyalist Commissioners
Montreal 1787
Before Commissioner Pemberton
New Claim Aug. 23.
Case of Richd. [sic: Nicholas] Philips, late of New York.
Repeats the evidences in AO 12 with the following testimonial
Philip Buck, Witness:
Knew him on the Susquehana. He had considerable Improvements, 30 or 40 acres clear. He settled there in 1772. He was taken Prisoner & confined some time. He got away once, was taken again. From thence he escaped to New York.
He had a good stock. Thinks the Rebels had them, not the Indians or Rangers. His stock was gone before they came.
__________________________
In colonial times William Pickard, a native of America lived on the Susquehannah River in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. During the American Revolution he served in Butler’s Ranger’s at Fort Niagara, Following the war he settled in Niagara Township, Lincoln County. The following is his Claim for Revolutionary War Losses heard by the Commissioners of Claims at Niagara on 23 Aug 1787. (AO 12 Vol. 40 P. 318-321)
Copy of the Loss of the Estate of Wm Pickard late of Pennsylvania—
To 24 Bushels of sewing Winter Grain
16 Acres of sewing Summer ditto
5 Milch Cows and one Heifer of two years old
and one Steer of one year old
2 Horses and likewise 8 Hogs
16 yards of Linen and likewise to the amount
of 100 yards ready Spun for Weaving –
A large Quantity of Flax and likewise a
set of Carpenters Tools and a Set of Coopers
Tools—
Ditto of Farmers utensils, Waggon, Plough Harrow, Ox-chain and all other Tools for
a Farmer to help himself—
Likewise House Furniture—
August 23rd 1787
Evidence on the Claim of Wm Pickard late of Pennsylvania—
Claimant Sworn
Says he is a native of America, lived in Susquehannah in Pensylvania, always supported British Government. He and his two Sons left home to join Colo Butler in 1777, joined him. – Served in the Rangers. He and one of his sons were Privates, the other was a Drummer. Served all the war. Lives now at Niagara. —
Had some Land in Westmoreland, 300 acres, had no Deed or Lease, but had made Improvements & lived there. He built a House and sort of Barn. – There was a great dispute between Pennsilvania & Connecticut as to which State the Land lay within when he went to settle there. He cleared about 24 acres. — His house & Barn were burnt by Rebels. —
He had some Land in Tryon County, purchased of Jacob & Philip Schyler, it consisted chiefly of Islands in the Mohawk River. – 3 Acres of Land on the Bank. He had a Deed of it. – He gave some other Lands in Exchange for it. – It was a great while ago –
He let it to Jacob Schuyler of whom he purchased it when he went to Susquehannah, partly for money, partly to have Cattle, but has received nothing from it. – values it at £150. —
Has heard that it was sold by Commrs because Claimant was a Tory. — There were about 10 acres clear of this Land. –
Has heard it has been bought by a nephew of Claimants, who is now in possession.
Lost Cattle & Goods on Susquehannah 5 Milk Cows, 2 young Creatures, Grain, 24 Bushels and 16 Bushels, two Horses, 8 Hogs, Furniture, utensils.
Left on his Place when he went away, taken by the Indians and Rebels. Lost Crop on the Ground.
Says he sometimes hears his his [sic] Estate has been Sold, sometimes not.
Frederick Smith Sworn,
Says Claimant had Improvements in Westmoreland on the Susquehannah, had cleared 20 Acres, he had settled upon it, it was not conveyed to him, he built House & Barn, since burnt.
Knew his other Lands in Tryon County, his Nephew now has them. — He had a good Stock; 5 Cows, 2 Horses, 2 young Creatures &c they were taken and destroyed by the Rebels.
He served in the Rangers from the beginning to the End of War – He had two Sons in the Rangers. —
Decision of the Commissioners
(AO 12 Vol. 66 P. 49)
William Pickard late of Susquehanah River
Claim
Amount of Property £243.11.3
Determination 6th December 1787
Loyalty. Bore Arms – The Claimant is a Loyalist & Bore Arms in Support of the British Government
Losses.
Real Estate. Improvements on a farm on}
the Susquehanah} £30
Persl Estate. Various Articles of Persl Property 35
£65
Claims Disallowed
The Claim for Lands in Tryon County not appearing to be Lost
Loss Proved
Resides at Niagara
(AO 12 Vol. 109 P. 96 Certificate No. 994)
Name of claimant Pickard William; Province Penns; Claim for Loss of Property £243.11; Sum Originally Allowed £65; Total Sum payable under Act of Parliament £65; Balance After Such Receipt £65; Final Balance £65
The Second Report of The Bureau of Archives for the Province of Ontario, 1904 transcribed from Library of Congress MSS 18,662 Vol. XX MSS. 17-19 in Second Report P. 963
Proceedings of Loyalist Commissioners
Montreal 1787
Before Commissioner Pemberton
New Claim Aug. 23.
Claim of Wm. Pickard, late of Pensilva.
Repeats the evidences in AO 12 with the following marginal notes of the Commissioner:
“May be allowed some little for improvements, and pretty well for stock.”
__________________________
In colonial times Caleb Powell a native of New York, lived in Rombout Precinct, Duchess County, New York. During the American Revolution he joined the British troops. Following the war, he lived in Gagetown, New Brunswick. His son Abraham Powell settled in Norfolk County, Upper Canada. Following is Caleb Powell’s Claim for Revolutionary War Losses heard by the Commissioners of Claims at St. John on 24 Feb 1787. (AO 12 Vol. 25 P. 392-395)
Memorandum of the Losses of Caleb Powell late of Dutchess County (Rumbout Precinct) in the Province of New York yeoman vizt
300 Acres of Land …………………… £700
300 Acres of ditto ……………………. 200
8 Horses ……………………………… 120
7 Cattle ………………………………… 42
28 Sheep………………………………… 33.12
Household Furniture & farming utensils 150
£1270.12
The said Caleb Powell was several times confined in Goal on account of his Loyalty and fined a large Sum of money. —
St John 24th February 1787
Evidence on the Claim of Caleb Powell late of Dutchess County New york Province
Claimant affirmed,
Says he came from New York in September 1783 and the days after he went up the River to Gage Town where he lived that Winter, and sent a Claim to England by Captn Vanderburgh, his Name is in Captain Vanderburgh’s List. —
He is a Native of New york Province, when the Troubles broke out he lived in Dutchess County New york Province living as a Farmer.
Says he always expressed his approbation of the British Government. —
He had five Sons who quitted the Country and took refuge within the British Lines and acted with the army, in consequence the Claimant was much harassed. He was at last so ill used that he was obliged to fly in 1781, the Rebels before that time had taken almost his all from him. —
He remained in New york until the Evacuation when he came to this Province with six Sons. – He resides at Gage Town. —
He has lost all his Writings. —
Property No 1….. 300 Acres of Land in Dutchess County. Purchased about 25 years ago from James Weeks, he gave £240 Currency for it, there was at that time little Improvement and no House, when he left it about 70 Acres were cleared and in good Cultivation. —
He was offered £500 Currency for this Farm before the War, thinks it was worth £600 Currency; during the War he improved it equal to £100 more. —
No 2 ….. 300 Acres adjoining, he purchased it in 1778 and gave £225 Currency for it. — Says he found his Stock was going by the Rebels and he gave Stock for the Farm. —
The Rebels took 8 Horses, 7 Cows and 28 Sheep. – Furniture and Farming utensils.
He believes that his Farm is Leased out by the Committee of Forfeitures. —
His name is not in Mr Ansty’s List, either Real or Personal Estate. —
Claimant was three times confined for assisting Loyalists and was fin’d £254 for giving Provisions to a man going to New york. —
Says that he cannot positively say that his Farm No 1 is lost and No 2 is in the possession of a Person who held it when he purchased it – He therefore waves the Claim for the Lands and prays Compensation for his Personal Property. —
Abraham Van Ambro Sworn,
Knew Claimant in Dutchess County in 1777, he was always understood to be a Loyal Man and was ill used, he afterwards saw him and his Sons in New york. —
He had a fine Stock of Cattle Horses Farming utensils and Furniture; and he understood that most of it was seized on account of his Loyalty. —
He had a very fine Farm. Witness rented a House from him in 1777 and gave him £20 p annum as yearly Rent.
Solomon Powell Sworn,
He is Son to Claimant, says he cannot tell what is become of the Farm No 1.
He has heard that great Part of his Father’s Stock was seized by the Rebels on account of the Part he took. —
(AO 12 Vol. 109 P. 248 Certificate No. 1711)
Name of claimant Powell Caleb; Province N York; Claim for Loss of Property £714.15; Sum Originally Allowed £101; Total Sum payable under Act of Parliament £101; Sum Already Received £30.6; Balance After Such Receipt £70.14; Final Balance £70.14
The Second Report of The Bureau of Archives for the Province of Ontario, 1904 transcribed from Library of Congress MSS 18,662 Vol. VIII MSS. 26-28 in Second Report P. 291
Proceedings of Loyalist Commissioners
St. Johns, 1786-7
Before Commissioner Dundas
New Claim, St. John 24 February 1787
Evidence on the Claim of Caleb Powell, late of Dutchess County, N. Y. Province.
Repeats the evidences in AO 12
__________________________
In colonial times Solomon Powell a native of New York and a son of Caleb Powell above, lived in Duchess County, New York, During the American Revolution he joined the British Army. Following the war he settled in Gagetown, New Brunswick. Following is Solomon Powell’s Claim for Revolutionary War heard by the Commissioners of Claims at St. John on 24 Feb 1787. (AO 12 Vol. 25 P. 397-400)
Memorandum of the Losses of Solomon Powell late of Dutchess County in the Province of New York Blacksmith vizt
200 Acres of Land with a Saw Mill – £200
300 Acres of Land in Pennsylvania……… 100
1 Horse £12 two Cows £12………….…… 24
6 Sheep £6, 4 Hogs £2……………….……. 8
Blacksmiths Tools & Household Furniture}
And Farming utensils…………….} 25
£357
St John 24th February 1787
Evidence on the Claim of Solomon Powell late of Dutchess County New York Province. —
Claimant Sworn
Says he sent his Claim by Captain Vanderburgh to England and his name appears in Captain Vanderburgh’s List.
He is a Native of New york Province, when the War broke out he lived in Dutchess County.
He was required to act with the Rebel Militia and frequently was forced to go out with them.
He joined the British army in 1779 says his reason for joining them was that he could not live peaceably at home. —
After he joined the army he acted as Guide to 14 or 15 Men for the Loyal Americans, he was afterwards out in the Country for some time and worked at his Trade on Long Island.
He came here in the first Fleet and now lives at Gage Town. —
Property No 1….. 200 Acres in Dutchess County with a Saw Mill, he purchased a quit Claim in 1777 from Samuel Hallock, says he paid £150 Currency for it, and built a dwelling House on it, the Mill was worth what he gave for the whole. —
He does not know what is become of the Land, the materials of the Mill was sold, and he believes his uncle is in possession of the Mill. – He does not Claim the Land.
No 2….. 300 Acres in Pennsylvania, he purchased it before the War, it was wild Land, and he gave a Horse for it, he valued the Horse at £50 Currency. —
He cannot say what became of the Land, he moved to it in 1776 but the Indians were troublesome and he could not live on it. —
He had two Cows six Sheep four Hogs Blacksmiths Tools Furniture & farming utensils £25.
And a Horse put into the hands of a Friend—Some Things were sold.
Caleb Powell affirmed
Claimant is his Son. —
Says his Son served in the Rebel Militia for some time, but believes it was from fear. —
Remembers his purchasing No 1—he purchased it on account of the Saw mill.
He understood that the Irons of the Mill and some Stock, his Blacksmith’s Tools, his Furniture and farming utensils were Seized and Sold. —
The Iron work of the Mill was worth £18 and sold for that Sum. —
Claimant’s Brother in Law is in possession. —
He had two Cows, a Horse left with a friend, a few Hogs and Sheep. —
He had some Land in Pennsylvania but he cannot say what is become of it. —
(AO 12 Vol. 109 P. 248 Certificate No. 1712)
Name of claimant Powell Solomon; Province N York; Claim for Loss of Property £200.16; Sum Originally Allowed £16; Total Sum payable under Act of Parliament £16; Sum Already Received 4.16; Balance After Such Receipt £11.4; Final Balance £11.4
The Second Report of The Bureau of Archives for the Province of Ontario, 1904 transcribed from Library of Congress MSS 18,662 Vol. VIII MSS. 28-32 in Second Report P. 292
Proceedings of Loyalist Commissioners
St. Johns, 1786-7
Before Commissioner Dundas
New Claim, St. John 24 February 1787
Evidence on the Claim of Solomon Powell, late of Dutchess County, N. Y. Province.
Repeats the evidences in AO 12
__________________________