Illinois Civil War Records - Margaret Harner

Civil War Record, Margaret Harner, widow of George B. Harner (Researched and transcribed by Garland D. Vinyard, posted with his permission, his comments)
      Affidavit of Margaret Harner: "[Act of June 27, 1890.] DECLARATION FOR WIDOW'S PENSION. By a New Law this may be Executed before any Officer Authorized to Administer Oaths. If Executed before an Officer who has NO SEAL, his Official Character Must be Certified ON THE BACK HEREOF. State of Illinois, County of Pope, SS. On this 3rd day of December A.D. one thousand eight hundred and ninety-one, personally appeared before me, a Notary Public, duly authorized to administer oaths within and for the county and State aforesaid, Margaret Harner, aged 53 years, a resident of Lusk, county of Pope, State of Illinois who, being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the widow of George B. Harner who enlisted under the name of George B. Harner, at _, on the 14th day of August, A.D. 1861, in Company "F", 29th Regiment, Ill Inft. Vols, and served at least ninety days in the late War of Rebellion, who WAS HONORABLY DISCHARGED on the 6th day of November 1865, and died on the 12th day of November, 1891 and that he was a pensioner of the U.S., Certificate No. 380,811. That she was married under the name of Margaret Duncan to said soldier on the 19th day of February, 1867, by W.L. Mitchell at Saline Co., Ill., being no legal barrier to said marriage. That she has not remarried since the death of the said George B. Harner. That she is without other means of support than her daily labor; the names and dates of birth of all the children now living under sixteen years of age of the soldier are as follows: Florence A., born December 25th, 1877. John H., born November 16th, 1879. That she has not heretofore applied for pension. That she makes this declaration for the purpose of being placed on the pension roll of the United States under the provisions of the Act of June 27m 1890. She hereby appoints Herself of Lust Illinois her true and lawful attorneys, to prosecute her claim. That her post- office address is Rusk, County of Pope, State of Illinois. Margaret Harner (Signature of Claimant). Also personally appeared John G. Cullum, Residing at Lusk, County of Pope, State of Illinois, and Anson Harner residing in Lusk, County of Pope, State of Illinois, persons whom I certify to be respectable and entitled to credit, and who, being by me duly sworn, say that they were present and saw Margaret Harner, the claimant, sign her name (or make her mark) to the foregoing declaration; that they have every reason to believe from the appearance of said claimant and their acquaintance with her that she is the identical person she represents herself to be and that they have no interest in the prosecution of this claim. John G. Cullum, Anson Harner (Signatures of witnesses). Sworn to and subscribed before me this 3rd day of December, A.D. 1891 and I hereby certify that the contents of the above declaration, etc., were fully made known and explained to the applicant and witnesses before swearing, including the words _ erased, and the words _ added; and that I have no interest, direct or indirect in the prosecution of this claim. James B. Floyd (Official Signature) Notary Public (Official Title). New Pension Law. The act of June 27, 1890, requires in widow's case: (1) That the soldier served at least 90 days in the war of the rebellion and was honorably discharged. (2) Proof of soldier's death (death cause need not have been due to Army service). (3) That widow is "without other means of support than her daily labor." (4) That widow was married to soldier prior to June 27, 1890, date of the act. (5) That all pensions under this act commence from date of receipt of application (executed after the passage of act) in Pension Bureau. 764077, ACT OF JUNE 27, 1890. WIDOW'S CLAIM FOR PENSION. CLAIM OF Margaret Harner WIDOW OF George B. Harner Co. "F" 29th Reg't, Ill Inft Vols. Address: Post Office: Lusk County: Pope State: Illinois. FILED BY Herself"
      Affidavit of Fanny Conley: "GENERAL AFFIDAVIT., State of Illinois, County of Pope, SS. In the matter of Margaret Harner widow of George B. Harner "F" 29th Ill. Inft. Personally came before me, a Notary Public, in and for aforesaid County and State, Fanny Conley aged 69 years, whose Post Office is Lusk, Ill. a citizen of the County of Pope and State of Illinois, well known to me to be reputable and entitled to credit, and who being duly sworn, declares in relation to said case, as follows, to wit: That she has been for a number of years a midwife and practiced said profession and that she was present and delivered Margaret Harner of a female child on December 25th 1879 and that said child was afterward named "Florence A" and that she was present and delivered Margaret Harner of a male child on November 16th 1879 and that said child was afterward named John H. and that her memory of remembering these facts are by being present at the residence of George B. Harner and Margaret Harner his wife acting in the capacity of midwife. And further declares that he has no interest in said case, and is not concerned in its prosecution. Witnesses, when affiant signs by mark. Anson Harner, John G. Cullum. Signed Fanny her X mark Conley. Subscribed and sworn to before me this day by the above affiant, and I certify that I read said affidavit, and acquainted her with its contents before she executed the same. I further certify that I am in no wise interested in said case, nor am I concerned in its prosecution. Witness my hand and official seal, this 3rd day of December A.D. 1891. (Signature) James B. Floyd (Official Character) Notary Public. AFFIDAVIT OF Fanny Conley. P.O. Lusk, Ill In the Claim of Margaret Harner, Co. "F", 29th Reg't. Ill Inft Vol. War of 1861-5. Births."
      Affidavit of Elijah Weekly: "GENERAL AFFIDAVIT., State of Illinois, County of Pope, SS. In the matter of Margaret Harner widow of George B. Harner "F" 29th Ill. Inft. Vol. Personally came before me, a Notary Public, in and for aforesaid County and State, Elijah C. Weekly aged 44 years, whose Post Office is Golconda, citizen of the County of Pope and State of Illinois, well known to me to be reputable and entitled to credit, and who being duly sworn, declares in relation to said case, as follows, to wit: That he is personally acquainted with Margaret Harner widow of George B. Harner and knows that she has no means of support, only by her own daily labor. And that she was married to said soldier prior to June 27th 1890. And that his means of knowing these facts are by being a neighbor and knowing the conditions and circumstances of the claimant. And he further states that he has no interest in said case, and is not concerned in its prosecution. Elijah C. Weekly, Signature of Affiant. Subscribed and sworn to before me this day by the above affiant, and I certify that I read said affidavit, and acquainted him with its contents before he executed the same. I further certify that I am in no wise interested in said case, nor am I concerned in its prosecution. Witness my hand and official seal, this 3rd day of December A.D. 1891. (Signature) James B. Floyd (Official Character) Notary Public. AFFIDAVIT OF Elijah C. Weekly. P.O. Golconda, Ill In the Claim of Margaret Harner Wid. Geo. B. Harner, Co. "F", 29th Reg't. Ill Inft Vol. War of 1861-5."
      Affidavit of John G. Cullum: "GENERAL AFFIDAVIT., State of Illinois, County of Pope, SS. In the matter of Margaret Harner widow of George B. Harner "F" 29th Ill. Inft. Vol. Personally came before me, a Notary Public, in and for aforesaid County and State, John G. Cullum aged 56 years, whose Post Office is Lusk, citizen of the County of Pope and State of Illinois, well known to me to be reputable and entitled to credit, and who being duly sworn, declares in relation to said case, as follows, to wit: That he is personally acquainted with Margaret Harner and knows that she has no means of support only that by her own daily labor. And that the widow was married to the soldier prior to June 27th 1890. And that his means of knowing these facts are by being a near neighbor to the widow and knows her conditions and circumstances. And he further declares that he has no interest in said case, and is not concerned in its prosecution. John G. Cullum, Signature of Affiant. Subscribed and sworn to before me this day by the above affiant, and I certify that I read said affidavit, and acquainted him with its contents before he executed the same. I further certify that I am in no wise interested in said case, nor am I concerned in its prosecution. Witness my hand and official seal, this 3rd day of December A.D. 1891. (Signature) James B. Floyd (Official Character) Notary Public. AFFIDAVIT OF John G. Cullum. P.O. Lusk, Ill In the Claim of Margaret Harner Wid. George B. Harner, Co. "F", 29th Reg't. Ill Inft Vol. War of 1861-5."
      Death Report: "[Form] (3-218a.) Eager, Ex'r. No. 534858, Act of June 27, 1890. 3/102H Margaret Harner Lusk Pope Co. Ill. Wid. George B. Harner, F. 29 Ill. Inf. Died at Nov 12/91 No other claim. Other Inv. Clf. 380811. 12/29,1891 SF Clerk. Numerical No. 764077. Application filed: Dec. 9, 1891."
      Increase in Pension Rejected: "[Form] (3-145) Increase INVALID PENSION. Claimant, George B. Harner, dec'd, Margaret Harner, widow, completing. P.O. Lusk. County, Pope. State, Ills. Rank, Pvt. Company, F. Regiment, 29th Ills. Vol. Inf. Rate: Rejected. Disabled by Rheumatism and disease of heart. RECOGNIZED ATTORNEY: None. APPROVALS: Submitted for Adm June 29, 1892. Approved for Rheumatism resulting disease of heart rending November 12, 1891 (Dead) Pay Widow as above. July 16, 1892 Wills, Legal Reviewer. Eager, Examiner. Approved for rheumatism and resulting disease of heart 17/18 - No increase. O'Reilly, A.W.C., J.M., Aug 6, 1892. Thos D. Ingram, Medical Referee. Discharged Nov. 6, 1865. Last paid to _, at $17. Pensioned from May 29, 1883, at $4, for same. Original declaration filed May 29, 1883; alleged rheumatism as result of measles. Inc. May 2, 1888 to $8, rheumatism & resulting disease of heart. Inc. April 23, 1890 to $17 same. PRESENT CLAIM. Declaration filed Feb. 14, 1891. Increase of same disabilities. Soldier died Nov. 12, 1891. Soldier's death not due to his military service."
      Affidavit of Delila Duncan: "GENERAL AFFIDAVIT., State of Illinois, County of Pope, SS. In the matter of Margaret Harner widow of George B. Harner "F" 29th Ill. Inft. Personally came before me, a Notary Public, in and for aforesaid County and State, Delila Duncan aged 75 years, whose Post Office is Mitchellsville, a citizen of the County of Saline and State of Illinois, well known to me to be reputable and entitled to credit, and who being duly sworn, declares in relation to said case, as follows, to wit: That she is the mother of the claimant and has been acquainted with her since infancy and knows that George B. Harner nor Margaret Harner his widow had never been previously married prior to their marriage, February 19th 1867 and the affiant further says that Margaret Harner the widow has never remarried since the death of her said husband. And that the children claimed for Florence A., John H: are still living. And that the claimant has no means of support other than her own daily labor. And that her income from all sources affords her only a scant living. And that all the property owned or possessed by her would scant exceed in value the sum six or eight hundred dollars including land and personal property and that her means of knowing these facts are by being well acquainted with the claimant and know her condition. She further declares that he has no interest in said case, and is not concerned in its prosecution. Witnesses, when affiant signs by mark. Jas. H. Wallace, J.L. Gallimora. Delila her X mark Duncan, Signature of Affiant. Subscribed and sworn to before me this day by the above affiant, and I certify that I read said affidavit, and acquainted her with its contents before she executed the same. I further certify that I am in no wise interested in said case, nor am I concerned in its prosecution. Witness my hand and official seal, this 25th day of April A.D. 1892. (Signature) James B. Floyd (Official Character) Notary Public. AFFIDAVIT OF Delila Duncan. P.O. Mitchellsville, Ill In the Claim of Margaret Harner, Wid. of George B. Harner, Claim No. 534,858 War of 1861-5."
      Marriage Certificate: "Certificate of Record of Marriage. State of Illinois, SALINE COUNTY} SS. I, James M. Pearce Clerk of the County Court of said County, do hereby certify that Mr. George B. Harner was married to Wife Margaret Duncan in said County, on the 19th day of February A.D. 1867, by William L. Mitchell a Justice of the Peace duly authorized to solemnize marriages by the Statute of the State of Illinois, as appears by his return and certificate of marriage attached to the license granted therefor by the Clerk of this Court, and now on file in my office. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto subscribed my name and attached the seal of said County Court, at my office in Harrisburg this 22nd day of April A.D. 1892. James A. Pearce, Clerk of the County Court."
      Affidavit of James B. Floyd: "GENERAL AFFIDAVIT. State of Illinois, County of Pope, SS. In the matter of Margaret Harner Widow of George B. Harner &c. Personally came before me Clerk of the Circuit Court, in and for aforesaid County and State, James B. Floyd, aged 49 years, whose Post Office address is Golconda, citizen of the County of Pope and State of Illinois, well known to me to be reputable and entitled to credit, and who being duly sworn, declares in relation to said case, as follows, to wit: That he was well acquainted with George B. Harner and Margaret Harner his wife and personally knows that neither he nor she had been previously married before their marriage some time in the year 1867 and the affiant further says that Margaret Harner yet remains the widow of the soldier and that the children claimed for are still living and under the care and keeping of the widow. And the affiant says that the claimant has no means of support only her daily labor for herself and little children and that all the property owned by her since her husbands death would not exceed in value the sum of some six or seven hundred dollars and consists of a small farm some personal property and household goods; and that her income from all sources only affords her a scanty living for herself and children and his means of knowing these facts are by being a neighbor before the war and since war and frequently visiting and seeing and knowing the condition and circumstances of the claimant. And he further declares that he has no interest in said case, and is not concerned in its prosecution. James B. Floyd, Signature of Affiant. Subscribed and sworn to before me this day by the above affiant, and I certify that I read said affidavit to said affiant, and acquainted him with the contents before he executed the same. I further certify that I am in no wise interested in said case, nor am I concerned in its proscution. Witness my hand and official seal, this 25th day of April, A.D. 1892. (Signature) Harrington Clanahan. (Official Character) Circuit Clerk by Geo. L. Baker, Deputy. AFFIDAVIT OF James B. Floyd P.O. Golconda, Ill. In the Claim of Margaret Harner, No. 534858."
      Widow's Pension Approval: "[Form] (3-128a.) ACT OF JUNE 27, 1890. WIDOW'S PENSION. Claimant Margaret Harner. P.O. Lusk. County Pope, State Ills. Soldier George B. Harner. Rank Pvt. Co. F, Regiment 29th Ills Vol. Inf. Rate $8 per month, commencing Dec. 9, 1891, and $2 per month additional each child, as follows: Florence A.{Born, Dec. 25, 1877, Sixteen, Dec. 24, 1893} Commencing Dec. 9, 1891. John H.{Born, Nov. 16, 1879, Sixteen, Nov. 15, 1895} Commencing Dec. 9, 1891. RECOGNIZED ATTORNEY: Cl'k. APPROVALS: Submitted for Adm. June 29, 1892, Eager, Examiner. Approved for Admission July 16, 1892 Wills, Legal Reviewer. The soldier was pensioned at $17 per month for rheumatism & res'gdis of heart. Enlisted Aug 14, 1861 and honorably disc'd Nov. 6, 1865. Re-enlisted Nov. Died Nov. 12, 1891. Declaration filed Dec. 9, 1891. Soldier app'n filed May 29, 1883. Clt's application under other laws not. Clt's marriage to soldier Feb 19, 1867. Cl't not remarried. Claimant is now without other means of support than her daily labor."
      Widow's application for back payments: "[Form] (3-500.) APPLICATION FOR ACCRUED PENSION. (WIDOW'S.) State of Illinois, County of Pope SS: On this 2nd day of March, 1892, personally appeared Margaret Harner, who, being duly sworn, declares that she is the lawful widow of George B. Harner, deceased; that he died on the 12th day of November, 1891; that he had been granted a pension by Certificate No. 380811 which is herewith returned (or if not, state why not); that he had been paid the pension by the Pension Agent at Chicago up to the 4th day of October, 1891; after which date he had not been employed or paid in the Army, Navy, or Marine service of the United States; that she was married to the said George B. Harner on the 19th day of February, 1867, at Saline County, in the State of Illinois; that her name before said marriage was Margaret Duncan; that she had not been previously married; that here husband accrued on aforesaid certificate to the date of his death; and that her residence is No._ Street, City of _, County of Polk, State of Illinois, and her Post- office address is Raum P.O. Pope Co., Ills. (Widow's signature) Margaret Harner. Also personally appeared Seaborn J. Hall, residing at Lusk Illinois, and F.M. Williams, residing at Hartsville, Ills., who, being duly sworn, say that they were present and saw Margaret Harner sign her name to the foregoing declaration; that they know her to be the lawful widow of George B. Harner, who died on the 12th day of November, 1891; and that their means of knowledge that said parties were husband and wife, and that the husband died on said date, are as follows: We live neighbors to Margaret Harner and F.M. Williams was present when he was killed. (Signature of witnesses) Leador J. Hall, S.M. Williams. Sworn to and subscribed before me on this 2nd day of March, 1892, and I certify that the affiants are reputable persons; that they know the contents of their dispositions, and that their statements are entitled to full faith and credit. I further certify that I have no interest, direct or indirect, in the above claim. (Signature) John S. Johnson (Official character) Justice of the Pease. Off. Has filed Nov 29/89 Nov 29/93, JS. My name and Term of Office are on file in the Pension Department at Washington and also at Chicago - John S. Johnson, J.P."
      Accrued Payment: "ACCRUED PENSION. Under Section 4718, R.S. Certificate No. 380,811. Last Issue June 20, 1890. Name of Pensioner, George B. Harner. Date of death, Nov. 12, 1891. Payable to Margaret Harner, widow. P.O. Lusk Pope Co., Dec. Accrued Pension Certificate and Order. Pension Certificate and Voucher herewith. Issued May 2, 1893. Mailed May 8, 1893. Payable to Widow. Fact and date of pensioner's death shown by: For all necessary evidence see accompanying widow's brief. Submitted for Oct. April 27, 1893. Approved. Ap - 28, 1893 Thorne W.P. Nettinell,"
      Pension Claim: "WIDOW'S CLAIM FOR PENSION. State of Illinois, County of Pope} SS. She is pensioned by Ctf. No. 340.963 act of June 27, 1890. ON THIS 8th day of May, 1902, personally appeared before me, a Notary Public of in and for the County and State aforesaid Margaret Harner a resident of Blanchard in the County of Pope and State of Illinois aged 66 years, who being duly sworn, makes the following declaration, in order to obtain the Pension provided by the Act of Congress approved July 14, 1862. That she is the widow of George B. Harner who was a Prvt. In Company F commanded by _ in the 29 Regiment of Ill Infty Vol in the War of 1861: that her maiden name was Margaret Duncan and that she was married to said George B. Harner on file in the Pension Office in the County of Saline and State of Illinois by _ that she knows of no record evidence of said marriage already on file in the Pension Office under act of June 27, 1890. SHE FURTHER DECLARES that said George B. Harner her husband, died at Lusk, Pope County, in the State of Illinois, on or about the 12th day of November, 1891 of Rheumatism being in such a severe form that he failed to dodge a splinter that caused instant death. She also declares that she has remained a widow ever since the death of said George B. Harner and that she has not in any manner been engaged in, or aided or abetted, the rebellion in the United States; and she hereby appoints W.F. Ross of Golconda Illinois as her lawful Attorney with power of substitution, and authorize him to present and prosecute this claim. The following _ the name, date of birth, and place of residences of all children of her deceased husband who were under sixteen years of age at the time of his death was Florence A. and John H. She further states that she is now suffering from homipecdzia of right-side and has been so suffering for about 7 years. My Post Office address is Blanchard Pope County Illinois. (If mark is made, two witnesses who write sign here) G.B. Williams, W.J. Williams. Margaret her X mark Harner. ALSO PERSONALLY APPEARED before me, G.B. Williams and W.F. Williams residents of Blanchard Pope County, and State of Illinois to me well known as credible persons, who being duly sworn, declare that they were present and saw said Margaret Harner make her mark to the foregoing declaration, and that they have every reason to believe she is the identical person she represents herself to be, and know that said deceased recognized said applicate as his lawful wife, and that she was so recognized by the community in which they resided; and that they have no interest, direct or indirect, in the prosecution of this claim. Signatures of Witnesses, G.B. Williams, Chs. J. Williams. Sworn and subscribed to before me, the 8th day of May, 1902; and I hereby certify that I have no interest, direct or indirect, in the prosecution of this claim. And that the contents of the above were made known and explained to applicant and witnesses before signing. John B. Hart (Official Signature) Notary Public. W. Ctf 340,963. WIDOW'S CLAIM Ctf. 380,811 PENSION ACT OF JULY 14, 1862. Mrs. Margaret Harner, widow of George B. Harner, Co. F, 29 Regt. Ill Infty Vols. FILED BY W.F. Ross, Golconda, Ill."
      Medical Exam: "PHYSICIAN'S AFFIDAVIT. TAKE NOTICE - The affidavit should if possible, be in the handwriting of the affiant; and the marginal instructions carefully observed before writing out the statement. All the facts in possession of affiant as to the origin and continuance of the disability should be fully set forth, and the dates of treatment should be specifically given. If the affidavit is prepared from memoranda in possession of the physician, that fact should be stated. State of Illinois County of Pope, SS: In the Pension Claim No. 340,963 of Margaret Harner wid of George B. Harner, late Priv. Co. F 29 Regt - see infy vol. Personally came before me, a Notary Public in and for the aforesaid County and State James W. Dixon, M.D. whose Post Office address is Hartsville Illinois well known to me to be reputable and entitled to credit, and who being duly sworn, declares in relation to the aforesaid case as follows. That he is a practicing physician, and has been acquainted with the above-named soldier about 14 years, and that I have heard George B. Harner complain of Rheumatism several times prescribed several times for him but don't remember whether it was for Rheumatism or not. I lived about five miles from him. Have known his widow Margaret Harner and acted as her Family physician most every since her husbands death she has been one half completely paralized from about seven years. Her mind is considered impaired. No control scarsly (sic) over her urin (sic). She is scarsly able to help herself at all in any perticular (sic) and should have a nurs (sic) in regular attendance. James W. Dixon, M.D. He further declares that he has been in practitioner of medicine for 14 years, and that he has no interest, either direct or indirect, in the claim to which this affidavit is supplementary and is not engaged in the prosecution. James W. Dixon, M.D. (Affiant's signature) Sworn to and subscribed before me this 8th day of May A.D. 1902, and I hereby certify that the affiant is a practicing physician in good professional standing; that the contents of the foregoing affidavit were fully made known to him before its execution, including the words_ erased, and the words _ added; that I have no interest, direct or indirect, in this claim, and am not engaged in its prosecution. John B. Hart (Official Signature) Notary Public (Official Character). No. 340,963 CLAIM of Margaret Harner wid. of George B. Harner, Co. f 29 Regt, Ill Infty Vol. FILED BY W.F. Ross, Golconda, Ill."
      Request for records: "[Form] (3-337.) West Div. JB, Ex'r. Department of the Interior, BUREAU OF PENSIONS, Washington, D.C. Nov. 17, 1902. Respectfully referred to the Chief of the Record and Pension Office, War Department, requesting an additional military and medical history of the soldier if any on file also his personal discription No other report on file. Mid. Ctf. No. 340963 Name George B. Harner Co. F 29 Reg't Ills. Inf. B.F. Ware, Commissioner. Record and Pension Office, WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, Nov. 19, 1902. Respectfully returned to Commissioner of Pensions, with the information that in the case of George Bailey Harner also borne George B. Harner, Co. F. 29 Ill. Inf. In addition to former report herewith Military records show Personal Description Age 18 years; Height 5 ft. 9 in; Comp. Fair; Eyes Blue, Hair Dark, Born Pope Co. Ill, Occ. Farmer. Prisoner of War Records show him captured and paroled at Heally Springs Miss Dec. 20/62 repht at BB Mo. Jany 7/9.63. Absent without leave Jany 31.63. Present Feby 28/63 absent without leave Mar 31/63 present April 30/63 & May 31.63. No later record. Medical Records that have been indexed (or recovered) since the statement of Nov. 10' 83 herewith returned, was made show the following additional information: Treated May 23 to July 8.64, Varriloid diagnosis also shown as syphilis and anthrax retd to duty. No additional record of disability found. BY AUTHORITY OF THE SECETARY OF WAR: F.C. Amsworth (?) Chief, Record and Pension Office."
      Reject Order: "[Form] (3-218.) Jenkins, Ex'r. W Ctf. No. 340,963. Acts of July 14, 1862 and March 3, 1873. Margaret Harner, Blanchard, Ill. Widow, George B. Harner, F 29 Ill. Inf. Died at Lusk, Ill. Nov. 12, 1891 No other claim than Wid. Ctf. 340.963 - J. Inv. Ctf. 380.811 - 0 Sept 25, 1902 W.J.P. REJECTED Application filed: Sep 22, 1902. Attorney: W.F. Ross P.O. Golconda, Ill. Rej. Sept 26, 1902 ILL. A&N. S. Nov. 17, 1902 Atty. Ross Rec. and filed & Ex. G pot death cause J.B. July 11-03. Abo cl to clt. BBJ. Dec 1.03 To atty R & Clk. Ltrs rji. BBJ."
      Affidavit of Anson Harner & F.M. Williams: "Western Div} Wid. Ctf. No. 340963 Blanchard, Ills 7/20.03. Margaret Harner, George B. Harner, F 29 Ills Inf.} This is to certify that we were personaly (sic) acquainted with George B. Harner and were both present at his death caused by a faling (sic) slab we were cutting down a tree and he was helping the tree Bursting we made an escape but he being crippled with rhumatism could not get out of the way. We further testify that we have heard him complain of (?) being bothered with rhumatism. We further testify that the widow did not call no physician he was killed instantly only breathed a few breaths. Anson Harner {seal}, F.M. Williams{seal}. This is to certufy that Anson Horner & F.M. Williams personal appeared before me in person and testified to the above affidavit. Subscribed and sworn to this the 25 Day of July 1903. Joshua Hart, Justice of the Peace. FILED TO COVER DATE."
      Increase Rejected: "[Form] (3-360.) WIDOW'S PENSION. Reissue to allow under general laws. Claimant, Margaret Harner. P.O. Blanchard. County, Pope. State, Illinois. Soldier, George B. Harner. Rank, Private. Company, F. Regiment, 29. Ill. Vol. Inf. By last marriage {Florence A. {Born December 25, 1877, Sixteen December 24, 1898} {John H. {Born November 16, 1879 Sixteen November 15, 1895} REJECTED Dec. 1-03. RECOGNIZED ATTORNEY. Name W.F. Ross P.O. Golconda, Ills. APPROVALS. Submitted for Rejn. Nov. 4, 1903, B.B. Jenkins, Examiner. Approved for rejection on the grounds that soldier's death from accident November 1891, was not the result of his pensioned cause rheumatism & resulting disease of heart nor is it otherwise shown to have been one to his service. (See material action of Nov. 12, 1903 . (?) Nov. 20, 1903, CO Penn, Legal Reviewer. Nov. 25, 1903, F.B. Curtis, Re-Examiner. IMPORTANT DATES. Enlisted August 14, 1861 Discharged November 6, 1865 Died November 12, 1891 Declaration filed September 22, 1903 Invalid appl'n filed May 29, 1883. Former marriage of soldier None [ED - in error] Former marriage of claimant None. Claimant's marriage to soldier Feby 19, 1867. Claimant not remarried. Claimant does not write. No M.C."
      Pension Reinstated: "[Form] (3-360.) Pension to Widow under the general laws, WIDOW'S PENSION. Ctf. No. 340.963. Claimant, Margaret Harner. P.O. Blanchard. County, Pope. State, Illinois. Soldier, George B. Harner. Rank, Private. Company, F. Regiment, 29. Ill. Vol. Inf. Rate, $12 per month, commencing November 13, 1891, and _ and $2 a month additional for each child as follows: By last marriage{Florence A.{Born December 25, 1877, Sixteen December 24, 1898}Commencing November 13, 1891{John H.{Born November 16, 1879 Sixteen November 15, 1895}Commencing November 13, 1891.
      RECOGNIZED ATTORNEY. Name W.F. Ross P.O. Golconda, Ills., Fee $10. APPROVALS. Submitted for Rejection November 4, 1903, B.B. Jenkins, Examiner. Approved for admission of rheumatism and resulting disease of heart to allow with the general law previous payments act of June 1890 and drop name from rolls renewed Nov. 7, 1863, W.B. Peters, Legal Reviewer. Nov. 9, 1903, M. Thomas, Re-Examiner. IMPORTANT DATES. Enlisted August 14, 1861 Discharged November 6, 1865 Died November 12, 1891 Declaration filed September 22, 1903 Invalid appl'n filed May 29, 1883. Former marriage of soldier None [ED - in error] Former marriage of claimant None. Claimant's marriage to soldier Feby 19, 1867. Claimant not remarried. Claimant does not write. No M.C."
      Updated Records Report: "No. 247,477 WAR DEPARTMENT, Surgeon General's Office, RECORD AND PENSION DIVISION, Washington, D.C., Nov. 10, 1883. SIR: I have the honor to return herewith your request for a report of hospital treatment in Claim No. 485.002, with such information as is furnished by the records filed in this Office, viz: that Harner, Co. F, 29th Ill. Inf. was treated in Regimental Hospt. July 23, 1863 for Intermittent Fever. The Register from which the above transcript was taken covers from July 20/63 to March 5/64. Records of the Regiment which cover the period July 20/63 to Nov 1/65, furnish no additional information in this case. Ammended in R. & P.O. Nov. 19, 1902. By order of the acting Surgeon General: To the Commission of Pensions. B.F. Pope, Assistant Surgeon, U.S. Army, per FSB. AK."
      Dropped due to death: "Act of June 27, 1890 12080. PENSIONER DROPPED. United States Pension Agency, Chicago, Ill. Mar. 15, 1907. Certificate No. 340,963. Class Widow Pensioner Margaret Harner Soldier George B. Service F 29 Ill Inf. The Commissioner of Pensions. SIR: I have the honor to report that the above-named pensioner who was last paid at $8, to 4 Jany., 1907 has been dropped because of Death Mar 1, 1907. Very respectfully, Charles Bent, United States Pension Agent."
      Letter from Congressman: "Committee on the Post Office and Post Roads, House of Representatives United States, Washington D.C. Nov. 3, 1913. Hon. Commissioner of Pensions, Washington, D.C. My dear Commissioner: - I have the honor to address you concerning the pension of Geo. B. Harner, of Blanchard, Ill., late of Co. F, 29th Ill. Vol. Infantry. I do not know his pension number. He is dead now, but I understand that his widow drew some back pay and a pension after his death. He has a crippled son, Ansom Harner, who is anxious to know if there is any opportunity for him to receive anything on account of the services of his father. Any information you may give me concerning this matter, will be highly appreciated. Thanking you for your many acts of kindness, with best wishes, I beg to remain, Very truly yours, Fb Robert Fowler."
      Reply of Commissioner: "HEP, Law Divison, 11-4-13, November 4, 1913 Hon. E. Robert Fowler, House of Representatives, Washington, D.C. My dear Mr. Fowler: In response to your leter of the 3d instant received today, relative to the pension claim of Margaret A. Harner, now deceased, late widow of George B. Harner, late of Co. F. 29th Illinois Infantry, certificate No. 340,963, I have the honor to advise you that the pension allowance included two minor children; to-wit: Florence E., born December 25, 1877, and John H., born November 16, 1879. It is, therefore, presumed that the child, Anson, mentioned in your letter, was past the age of 16 years at the date of the soldier's death, and, if so, he would have no pensionable status under any law, whether on account of helplessness or otherwise. Very truly yours, G.M. SALTZGABER, Commissioner."
      Letter of Ada Harner, wife of Anson Harner (son of George and Margaret Harner): "Blanchard, Illinois. April 9th 1915. Dear people of the interior Bureau of pensions. I am asking a favor of yours which I hope you will grant me. My husband Anson Harner is a son of a Soldier George B. Harner of Co. F 29 Illinois Infantry Certificate No. 340.963 and Anson Harner is a cripple he was born a cripple. Could you not grant him a small pension or can he not heir his Fathers pension, his father and mother are both dead (.) bad health and bad luck otherwise have got us in to where we are now selling our little farm to pay our indetness (.) the people here all say that it just for Anson to have a pension. I guess it carleness of his Father that he is not on roll if he cant get a pension. I do hope he can. I have worked hard to help Anson for us to have means to go on till now. I am in bad health under the care of the Doctor but we have a bright little boy in his 15th year he is quick to learn. I want to get close to a good school and try to Educate him he says he can take care of mama that mama is so good to him that he wants to do something to help mama. I do hope that you good people will lend me a helping hand if your fear that we are not worthy of this favor just write me and I will send you names of good people that you may make any inquire you wish te da kind people help me I do hope some of the good sisters there will show pity for me and my little boy and take up a collection for me that I may succeed in education my little Boy and if you posible can fix up for my husband to get just a small pension please do so for it is just and he is in great need I can prove that I have went to the field and plowed and did all kind of work in the field and house work to till now I am in bad Health and in need of help and I do trust that you will help me to the money te Educate my little Boy we have good neighbors here but most of them are poor folks with large families and we cant hard to ask them to help us any more then they do. I have been advised to write to you people and see if you wont fix up for Anson Harner my husband a small pension that we may get to where we can educate my little boy and then I know that he will help me if I live for he is a fine little fellow wll respected he is good te do any thing for me that he can and I have promised him to try to get money to Educate him I hope I can please do help us let me hear from you as soon as possible I do hope to get help. Yours Resp, Ada Harner. P.S. please do help me now and if ever I get te where I can I will pay it all back honest I will. Let me hear soon if you can help me. [part of pages torn off] two weeks before Christmas and I do hope that my wish be granted the means to educate my little boy then I no he will hep me if we both live and ever.."
      Reply of Commission: "Civil War Division, Wid. Ctf. 340,963, Margaret A. Harner, George B. Harner, Co. F 29 Ill. Inf. E.R. Campbell. LLC June 18, 1915. Mrs. Ada Harner, Blanchard, Illinois. Madam: In response to your communication of April 19, 1915, you are advised that your husband, Anson Harner, has no status to apply for pension as the child of the above named soldier for the reason that he was not under sixteen years of age at the death of the soldier's widow, Margaret A., who had a prior right and was pensioned from December 9, 1891 to her death. Under existing laws this Bureau is unable to afford you any relief. Very respectfully, G.M. Saltzgaber, Commissioner."
 

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