Illinois Civil War Records - John Brandon; Part 1

Civil War Record, John Brandon, husband of Nancy Ann Duncan and Sarah Adeline Duncan (Researched and transcribed by Garland D. Vinyard, posted with his permission, his comments)
      National Archives, General Index to Pension Files 1861-1934, Series T-288, Roll 48 - Brandon, John, widow Brandon, Sarah A. Co. G, 31st Illinois Inf.; Invalid 1866, February 19, Application #103064, Certification #79142, IL. Widow, 1908 September 25, Application #548858, Certification #340963, Illinois.
      National Archives, Complete File of John Brandon & Sarah Adeline Brandon Pension Files, Received December 24, 2001.
      File Designation John Brandon, WL-669-802: "National Archives, CERT. NO. 669-802, PENSIONER: Sarah A. Widow of VETERAN John Brandon. CAN. NO. 54-455 BUNDLE NO. 13
      Certificate: "No. 79.1421, Illinois, John Brandon, Rank Priv., Company G, Regiment 31st Ill. Vols., Centralia Agency. Rate per month $8 Commencing 14th July 1865. Certificate dated March 27, 1867 and sent to Raum V. Christy, Harrisburg, Ill. Act of July, 1852. Book G. Vol. 10 Page 60. William Sizemen [signature poor handwriting] Clerk.
      Circular No. 7: "Department of the Interior, PENSION OFFICE, Feb. 2, 1867. Sir: In the case of John Brandon, late Private Co. G 31st Regiment Ills Vol it is respectfully request that you furnish this Office whatever? Evidence the rolls of said Regiment may afford as to the applicant's service, disability, and discharge. He alleges that he was wounded at the battle of Champion Hill on the _ day of _. And was discharged on the 19 day of July 1865. Respectfully, yours, Joseph H. Barrett, Commissioner. Adjutant General, U.S.A., Washington, D.C. 103Oct. J.M.S."
      Affidavit: "STATE OF ILLINOIS, SALINE COUNTY,} SS. On this 9th day of February A.D. 1886, before me, the undersigned, a Circuit Clerk, in and for the County and State above named, personally appeared John Brandon, a resident of Saline County, in the State of Illinois who being duly sworn according to law, declares that he is the identical John Brandon who was a private in Company G commanded by Captain M.J. Potts in the 31st Regiment of Illinois Volunteers, commanded by Col. B.N. Pierson, that he volunteered at Harrisburg in the State of Illinois on or about the 1st day of September 1862, for the term of three years and was honorably discharged at Louisville, KY on the 19th day of July 1865, As will appear by his certificate of discharge herewith presented. That my Post Office is as follows, Stone Forth, Saline County, Ills. That her was disabled by a wound in the left side and back. That he was wounded at Champion Hill Miss. That this occurred under ??? [unreadable handwriting]. He makes this declaration for the purpose of being placed on the Invalid Pension Roll of the United States by reason of the disability above stated; and hereby constitutes and appoints RAUM & CHRISTY of Harrisburg, Illinois, his Attorneys to prosecute this claim, and procure a Pension Certificate. [signed] John Brandon. Sworn to, subscribed and acknowledged before me, the day and year first named; and on the same day personally appeared M.J. Potts and W.W. Sargent residents of Saline County Illinois and make oath that they are personally acquainted with John Brandon who has made and subscribed the foregoing declaration in their presence, and that they have every reason to believe from the appearance of the applicant, and their acquaintance with him, that he is the identical person he representshimself to be, and their acquantiance with him, that he is the identical person he represents himself to be,that they reside as above stated, and are disinterested in this claim. [signed] M.J. Potts, W.W. Sargent. Sworn to and subscribed before me; and I certify that I am not interested in the claim or concerned in its prosecution; that I believe the affiants to be credible witnesses, and claimant is the person he represents himself to be; that I have known to the declarant and witness the content of the foregoing declaration and affidavit before they signed their names, or made their marks to the same. IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name, and affixed my official seal this 9th day of February 1886. Thos. Y. Reynolds, Clerk."
      Certificate: "No. 103064, ACT OF JULY 14, 1862. War of 1861. Vol 3, page _. John Brandon, Stone Fort, Saline Co., Ills. Prv. Co. G, 31 Ills. Vols. Discharged July 19, 1865. Admitted March 24 67Jas. N. Somera & Joseph H. Barrett, Comissioner. Received, Feby. 10, 1866. Raum Johnson, Harrisburg, Ills."
      Surgeon's Certificate: "No. 103,064 Ordered. Examining Surgeon's Certificate. Harrisburg, Ills. Feby 28th 1867. I hereby Certify, That I have carefully examined John Brandon late a Private in Company "G" 31st Illinois Infantry in the service of the United States, who was discharged at Louisville, Ky, on the 19th day of June 1865, and is a applicant for an invalid pension, by reason of alleged disability resulting from wounds. It is my opinion that said John Brandon is totally incapacitated for obtaining his subsistence by manual labor from the cause above stated. Judging from his present condition, and from the evidence before me, it is my belief that the said disability incurred in the service aforesaid in the line of duty. The disability is probably permanent. A more particular description of the applicant's condition is subjoined: He was wounded at the Battle of Champion Hills, Miss. By a Minnie Ball passing through his right lung. The Ball entered about three inches below the axilla and passed out near the internal angle of the left scapula. He is pale amaciated and has Hemoplisis upon the slightest exertion. He has a cough and frequently expectorates Blood. His disability is total and probably permanent. John Poindexter, Examining Surgeon."
      Affidavit, John Brandon: "STATE OF ILLINOIS, SALINE COUNTY} SS. On this 5th day of March A.D. 1867, before me, the undersigned, a Circuit Clerk, in for the County and State above named, personally appeared John Brandon, a resident of Saline County in the State of Illinois who being duly sworn according to law, declares that he is the identical John Brandon who was a Private in Company G commanded by Captain Potts in the 31st Regiment of Illinois Volunteers, commanded by Col. Pierson that he volunteered at Stone Fort in the State of Illinois on or about the 1st day of day of September 1862 for the term of three years and was honorably discharged at Soursall, Ky on the 19th day of July 1865, as will appear by his certificate of discharge herewith presented. That my Post Office address is as follows: Stone Fort, Saline Co. Ills. That he was wounded in Battle of Champion Hill, Vicksburg, Miss. On the 16 day of May 1863 - he was wounded in the left side - through the left lung - and was in Hospital at Memphis (?) Tenn and at Benton Barricks Mo. He makes this declaration for the purpose of being placed on the Invalid Pension Roll of the United States by reason of the disability above stated; and hereby constitutes and appoints RAUM & CHRISTY of Harrisburg, Illinois, his Attorneys to prosecute this claim, and procure a Pension Certificate. [signed] John Brandon. Sworn to, subscribed, and acknowledged before me, the day and year above named; and on the same day personally appeared William Gaskins and Columbus T. Morris residents of Saline County Ills and make oath that they are personally acquainted with John Brandon who has made and subscribed the foregoing declaration in their presence, and that they have every reason to believe from the appearance of the applicant, and their acquaintance with him, that he is the identical person he represents himself to be, that they reside as above stated, and are disinterested in this claim. [signed] Wm Gaskins, C.M. Morris. Sworn to and subscribed before me; and I certify that I am not interested in the claim or concerned in its prosecution; that I believe the affiants to be credible witnesses, and claimant is the person he represents himself to be; that I have known to the declarant and witness the content of the foregoing declaration and affidavit before they signed their names, or made their marks to the same. IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name, and affixed my official seal this 5th day of March 1887. Thos. Y. Reynolds, Clerk."
      Affidavit of Captain S.S. Stricklin: "State of Illinois, Saline County} ss. On this 5th day of March 1867 before me a circuit clerk in and for said County and State personally appeared Simpson S. Strickland who after being duly sworn according to law disposes and says that he was Captan (sic) of Co. G 31st Ills Vols during the year 1863 - and that he was and is personally acquainted with John Brandon who was a private of Co. G 31st Ills Vols - and that he knows that said soldier was wounded in the Battle on the 16th day of May 1863 at Champion Hill bunker of Vicksburg Miss - That his wound was in the left side through the lung - That said named was wounded while in said ? [writing unclear] and in the line of duty. That he knows the parts obstruted (?) by having been in command of said company at the time - that he has no interest in this claim. S.S. Stricklin. Sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year just above written and I certify that the affiant is a reputable person and entitled to full credit. That I have no interest direct or indirect in this claim. Witness my hand and seal this 5th day of March 1867. Thos. Y. Reynolds, Clerk."
      Affidavit Claim for Invalid Pension: " WAR OF 1861 ACT JULY 14, 1862. Brief in case of John Brandon Private of Company G 31 Regiment Ills Vols. POST OFFICE ADDRESS OF APPLICANT: Stone Fort, Saline Co., Ill. Enlisted Sept 1, 1862. Discharged July 17, 1865. CLAIM FOR AN INVALID PENSION. DECLARATIONS AND IDENTIFICATION IN DUE FORM. PROOF EXHIBITED. 1. A.G. reports Wounded in Action at Champion Hills Mis. May 16/63 Captured and paroled by the Enemy. 2. Late Capt. Testifies was wounded in left side and lung in battle of Champion Hill May 16/63. 3. Dr. Poindexter reports Feb 28/67 Minnie ball passed thro' right lung - pale emaciated & has Hemoptysis (Upon slightest exeration - coughs dfregmently expictoreter (sic) blood - Dr: total & probably permenent. (sic). Admitted March 21, 1867 to a Pension of $8 per month, commencing July 19, 1867. Disability Total. Disabled by G.S.W. left side & lung, Raum & Christy, Harrisburg, Ill. Jas. N. Somers, Examining Clerk. Approved _"
      Certificate: "Adjutant General's Office, Washington, D.C., Feby 5th, 1867. Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt from your Office of application for Pension No. 103.064, and to return it herewith, with such information as is furnished by the files of this Office. It appears from the Rolls on file in this Office, that John Brandon was enrolled on the 1st day of Sept., 1862 at Harrisburg, Ills in Co. G, 31st Regiment of Ills Volunteers, to serve 3 years, or during the war, and mustered into the service as a Recruit on the 17'd day of Oct 1862, at Springfield Ills, in Co. G, 31st Regiment of Ills Volunteers, to serve 3 years, or during the war. On the Muster Roll of Co. G of that Regiment, for the months of May & June 1863, he is reported Private. "Wounded in action at Champion Hills Miss. May 16/63 captured and paroled by the Enemy." The Muster out Roll dated July 19/65 reports him "Present, mustered out July 19/65." I am Sir, very respectfully, Your obedient servant, ? (unclear signature) Breck, Assistant Adjutant General. The Commissioner of Pensions, Washington, D.C. ."
      Doctor's Examination for pension increase: "Examining Surgeon's Certificate, IN THE CASE OF AN APPLICANT FOR INCREASE OF PENSION. No. of Certificate, 79.742. State: Illinois County: Saline Post Office: Harrisburg, July 12th, 1876. It is hereby certified That John Brandon formerly a Private of Captain Stricklin "G" Company in the 31st Regiment of Ill. Vol. Inf. in the war of 1861 who is now paid at Saline Agency at the rate of 8.00 dollars per month, on account, as he states of G.S. Wound of left side & lung while in the line of duty in the military service of the United States, on or about the 16th day of May, 1863, at a place call Champions Hill, in the State or Territory of Mississippi is still suffering in consequence of said wound. The disability originates entirely from the injury or disease on account of which he was originally pensioned, as follows: Height, 5 ft. 6 in. weight, 130; complexion, light age, 30 yrs.; respiration 19 pr se; pulse 78. I find Ball entered under left-arm, falling backward through the posterior position left-lung and underneath the 5 dorsal vertebra, making exit - on right side of Vertibral Colurure below the right-scapula. Complains of incurring Hemorhages from lung. Constraint virta sisup (?) and pain in left side. Looks anceptic general appearance not - healthy. Disability permanent. Habits good. Present rating never sufficient. I find his disability, as described above, to be equal to, and entitling him to $12 per month = 2/3 3rd Grade. S.L. Cheuscey, M.D. Examining Surgeon. The Surgeon will forward his report of examination direct to Pension Office whether the pensioner is thought to be entitled."
      Doctor's Certificate: "SURGEON'S CERTIFICATE OF Biennial, Annual, or Semi-annual Examination, on which the Pensioner draws his Pension. State: Illinois County: Pope. Post Office: Golconda, Sept 4, 1873. I hereby Certify, That I have carefully examined John Brandon, who was a Priv. Co. G 31 Regt. Ills Vol in the war? Rebellion and was granted an Invalid Pension under Certificate No. 79162 to be paid now at the Agency in Salem Ills. by reason of alleged disability resulting from Gun shot wound left lung, which he states to have been received in the line of duty while he was in the military service of the United States. In my opinion, the said Pensioner's disability, from the cause aforesaid continues at Total $8.00 per mo. A more particular description of the Pensioner's condition is subjoined: Height 5-6; weight, 130; complexion, Dark Age, 28; respiration, 19; pulse, 78. Ball entered the left side 3 inches below axila breaking two ribs passed through the lung coming out 2 inches to the right of the spine. The left side is painful. Coughs and after lifting heavy weights spits blood. [signed] H.W. Usteny (?), Examining Surgeon."
      Pension Increase: "Increase INVALID PENSION. Claimant, John Brandon P.O., Stone Fort County, Saline State, Ill { Rank, pvt. Company, G Regiment, 31st Ill Vol. Attorney, J.M. Simonson, Salem, Ill. Fee, $10 per month, commencing July 12, 1876. Disabled by GSW left side & lung. Submitted 17 May, 1877, by F.F. Dolan, Examiner. Approved for gun shot would left side and lung. Approved for G.S.W. through involving lug. (left side) 12/18 from July 12/76 Be: Ex. Reqd. [signed] T.D. Yeager. May 21, 1877 Reviewer June 20 - 1877 H. Richrings (?) Med. Rev. Discharged 19 July, 1865. Original application filed 19 Feb., 1866. Increase application filed 26 June, 1876. Certificate surrendered 17 July, 1876. Last paid at $8 to 4 Dec. 1876. Pensioned 27 Mch, 1876 from 19 Jul., 1865; at $8. Per month for GsWd left side & lung. Claims Wound of left side & lung.
      Doctor's Certificate: "DUPLICATE, SURGEON'S CERTIFICATE OF OF Biennial, Annual, or Semi-annual Examination, on which the Pensioner draws his Pension. State: Illinois County: Saline. Post Office: Harrisburg, Sept 4, 1875. I hereby Certify, That I have carefully examined John Brandon, who was a Private Co. G 31st Regt. Ill Vol in the war 1861 and was granted an Invalid Pension under Certificate No. 79142 to be paid now at the Agency in Salem by reason of alleged disability resulting from Gunshot W. left -brest, which he states to have been received in the line of duty while he was in the military service of the United States. In my opinion, the said Pensioner's disability, from the cause aforesaid continues present - degree Total $8.00. A more particular description of the Pensioner's condition is subjoined: Height 5 f. 6; weight, 128; complexion, shallow Age, 29; respiration, 19 pr sec; pulse, 74 full strong. I find cicabrix of the entrance of the Ball between Seventh and Eight rib passed through posterion interior puncture of left lung beneath spinal column making exit (?) of scapula the Pulmumary sioatrix seumure extension a mummer of resporatum can be heard over the part wounded slight curvature of spine where the Ball passed under it. Complaints of (?) and pain in the back Slight (?) not (?) cought for some time past, general appearance unhealthy. Conts at $8 per month. [signed] S.L. Cheancy, Examining Surgeon."
      Request for increase in Pension: "DECLARATION FOR THE INCREASE OF AN INVALID PENSION. State of Illinois, County of Saline } SS. On this, 15th day of June, A.D. one thousand eight hundred and seventy-six, personally appeared before me, W.E. Burnett, Clerk of the County Court, the same being a court of record within and for the County and State aforesaid, John Brandon aged 30 years, a resident of _ County of Saline, State of Illinois who being duly sworn according to law, declares that he is a pensioner of the United States, duly enrolled at the Salem Illinois Pension Agency at the rate of Eight dollars per month, by reason of disability incurred in the military service of the United States while (1) Private Company G 31st Regiment - Illinois Volunteers that his present condition is such that he believes himself entitled to receive an increased pension. He further declares that he is disabled in the following manner, to wit: (2) wound of left side and lug having pain in lugs and breast. There is no time I am able to do manual labor. Cannot do any kind of hard or heavy work necessary in my business (farming) that he appoints J.M. Jemsonson of Saline, Illinois his true and lawful attorney to prosecute his claim; that his residence is No. _, in _ street, of _, County of Saline, and State of Illinois; and his post office is Stone Fort Illinois. John Brandon (Claimant's signature.) (Attest,) - Two witnesses who can write: M.J. Potts, Pleasant Taylor. Also personally appeared M.J. Potts, residing at Harrisburg, Ills and Pleasant Taylor residing at Harrisburg, Ills, persons whom I certify to be respectable and entitled to credit, and who, being by me duly sworn, say they were present and saw John Brandon, the claimant, sign his name (or make his mark) to the foregoing declaration; that they have every reason to believe, from the appearance of said claimant and their acquaintance with him, that he is the identical person he represents himself to be; and that they have no interest in the prosecution of this claim. M.J. Potts, Pleasant Taylor (Signatures of Witnesses.) Sworn to and subscribed before me this 15th day of June, A.D. 1876, and I hereby certify that the contents of the above declaration, &c, were fully made known and explained to the applicant and witnesses before swearing, including the word "and he herewith releases his present certificate erased, and the words _ added; and that I have no interest, direct or indirect, in the prosecution of this claim. W.E. Burnett (Signature) County Clerk (Official character)."
      Doctor's Examination: "Examining Surgeon's Certificate, IN THE CASE OF AN APPLICANT FOR INCREASE OF PENSION. No. of Certificate, 79142. State: Illinois County: Johnson. Post Office Vienna, May 31st, 1877. It is hereby certified That John Brandon formerly a Private of Captain S.S. Stricklin Company "G" in the 31st Regiment of Ills Vols Infy, in the war of 1861 & 62 who is now paid at Salem Ills Agency at the rate of Eight dollars per month, on account, as he states of Gun shot wound left side and lung received while in the line of duty in the military service of the United States, on or about the 16th day of May, 1863 at a place called Champion Hill, in the State or Territory of Mississippi is still suffering in consequence of said Gun shot wound of lefe side and lung. The disability originates entirely from the injury or disease in account of which he was originally pensioned as follows: Height 5 ft 6 in; weight 124; complexion, dark; age 32; respiration 18; pulse 74. This applicant has cecatrix from gun shot through the upper bueler (?) of the latisauni (?) dorsi muscle of left side from wicher (?) anterior too, and one inch below the inferior angle of Scapular the ball fracturing the eighth rib and including upwards and backward and in its course (no doubt) entering the lung - then emerging from the pulwin (?) any cavity on same side of the spine thence traversing the soft parts postenir (?) to the sixth dorsal vertebra, and making its exit two inches to the right of spewus (?) precep of the same vertebra. At the point of entrance the fractured rib cannot be felt the detached portions coming away from suppuratum. The cecatinx is tender upon pressure. He "says he suffers daily from pain at the point of the spine crossed by the track of the ball." There is apparent dulnip with oligbilty (?) exaggerated respiratory murmur in infra scapular region of wounded lung. Otherwise being normal. Inspection and mensuration show nothing abnormal. He "says he cannot chop or dig nor perform labor when there is swinging motion of his arms. Can plow in pleasant weather. Habits good - disability permanent. I find his disability to be equal to, and entitling him to twelve dollars ($12) per month. Geo Bratton, Examining Surgeon." [ED - medical terms are hard to decipher in undersized hand writing]
      Doctor's Certificate: "DUPLICATE, SURGEON'S CERTIFICATE. Biennial, Annual, or Semi-annual Examination, on which the Pensioner draws his Pension. State: Illinois County: Saline Post Office: Harrisburg Sept 6, 1877. I hereby certify that I have carefully examined John Brandon, who was a Private Co. G 31 Ill Volunteers in the war Rebellion and was granted an Invalid Pension under Certificate No. 79172, to be paid now at the Agency in Chicago Illinois by reason of alleged disability resulting from gun shot wound left side which he states to have been received in the line of duty while he was in the military service of the United States. In My opinion the said Pensioner's disability, from the cause aforesad continues at 2/3 degree 3rd Grade. A more particular description of the Pensioner's condition is subjoined: Height, 5=8; weight 130; complexion dark; age 31; respiration Normal; pulse Normal. Gun shot wound left side - ball passed through left lung making exit under right scapala - Is quite harse - Cannot speak loud - has pectoriloguy considered pain. Disability 2/3 degree 3rd Grade entitling him to $12.00 per month, C. Baker, Examining Surgeon."
      Affidavit Claim for pension increase: "Declaration for Increase Inv. Pension. State of Illinois, County of Saline } ss. On this 9th day of February A.D. One thousand Eight Hundred and Eighty four Personally appeared before me a Notary Public in and for said County and State, John Brandon age 39 years a resident of Saline County Illinois and being by me duly sworn says that he is the identical John Brandon that served as a private in the "G" 31st Regt. Ills. Inf. Vols. and was wounded in said service through the left side and lung and was pensioned for said wound at the rate of Twelve Dollars per month from the 12th day of July A.D. 1876 payable at Chicago Pension Agency. That he believes himself entitled to an increase of Pension on account of his pension being rated to low and also on account of said injury gradually growing worse producing garatis disease of lung and causing sworn general disability - of his system wholely in capacitating him for the per performance of manual labor. That his assistance is miles East of Stone Fort Illinois and his post office address is Stone Fort Saline Co. Illinois. [Signed] John Brandon. Also at the same time and place personally appeared G.W. St. John and W.G. Osburn residents of Stone Fort Saline Co. Illinois persons whom I certify to be respectable and entitled to credit - and being by an duly sworn says they were present and saw John Brandon the claimant write his name to the foregoing Declaration that they have every reason to believe from the appearance of said claimant and their acquaintance with him that he is the identical person he represents himself to be and that they have no interest - direct nor indirect in the prosecution of this claim. [signed] W.G. Osburn, G.W. St. John. Subscribed and sworn to before me this day by said claimant and witnesses and I certify the contents of the foregoing Declaration and affidavit was read over and duly explained to them before swearing that I have not interest - present or prospective in the prosecution of this claim. With my hand and notarial seal this 9th day of February AD 188 [sic, should be 1884] J.P. Murray, Notary Public. State of Illinois, Saline County} ss. I W.E. Burnett clerk of the county court in and for said county and state hereby certify that J.P. Murray before whom the foregoing Declaration and affidavit - purports to have been executed was at the time of so doing a Notary Public in and for said county and state duly commissioned and sworn that all his acts as such Notary an entitled to full faith and credit. That his commission bears date the 20th day of March A.D. 1880 and will expire on the 20th day of March A.D. 1884 and that his signature above is genuine. Witness my hand and seal of said court This 11th day of February A.D. 1884. W.E. Burnett County Clerk."
      Examining Doctor: "EXAMINING SURGEON'S CERTIFICATE IN THE CASE OF AN APPLICANT FOR INCREASE OF PENSION. No of Certificate, 79,142. State: Ill County: Saline Post Office: Harrisburg Mar 5, 1884. It is hereby certified That I J. Brandon formerly a private of Captain B Company in the 31st Regiment of Ill Vol, in the war of 1861 who is now paid at Chicago Agency at the rate of Twelve dollars per month, on account, as he states, of Gsw of left side and lung while in the line of duty in the military service of the United States, on or about the 16 day of May, 1863, at a place called Champion Hill, in the State or Territory of Miss. Is still suffering in consequence of said Gsw of left side and lung. This disability originates entirely from the injury or disease on account of which he was originally pensioned, as follows $8.00 per month. Height, 5 ft 6 in.; weight, 135; complexion, dark; age 39; respiration, normal; pulse, 70. The ball entered immediately below the left axilla passing between the 6 & 7 ribs ranging under then a little upwards across the poster larder of one of the dorsal vertibras and coming out near the internal or venterial border of the lower extermity of the right scupula. I don't think it ranged deep enough to effect the left lung very much he has a cough but no expectrative ascscultation (?) and percussion sounds normal chest full and normal (both sides) presents no emacution. I find his disability, as described above, to be equal to, and entitling him to $12.00 per month. N.S. Hudson, Examining Surgeon."
      Increase in Pension: "Increase INVALID PENSION. Claimant, John Brandon. P.O., Stone Fort, County, Saline State, Ill. {Rank, Pvt. Company, G. Regiment, 31 Ill Vols. Fee - None Rate, $ _ per month, commencing _. Disbaled by Gsw left side & lung. Submitted Mach 20, 1884 M.M. Inajo, Examiner. Aproved for Rej. No Inc. Mch. 24, 1884, Smith Reviewer. Discharged July 19, 1865. Original application filed Feb 19, 1866. Increase application filed Feb. 15, 1884. Certificate surrendered No. Last paid at $12, _. Pensioned Mch 27, 1867; from July 19, 1865; at $8 per month for GSW left side & lung. No. W412 Jr. July 12/76. Claims Same. None.
      Increase in Pension: "Increase INVALID PENSION. Claimant, John Brandon. P.O., Stone Fort. County, Saline. State, Ills. Attorney Jno. M. Gregg, Harrisburg, Ills. Fee, $ Adj to pay. Rate, $ _. Disabled by GSW left side & lung. Submitted June 12, 1885 by Munns, Examiner. Approved for GSW left side & lung. Approved for no increase. June 16, 1885 W. Hanna, Reviewer. CML T. B Rooks June 18, 1885, Med. Referee. Discharged July 19, 1865. Original application filed Oct. 19, 1866. Increase application filed Mar 28, 1885. Certificate surrendered _. Last paid at $12. Pensioned Mch 27, 1867; from July 19, 1865; at $8 per month for Above. Inc'd to $12 fr. July 12, 176. Inc rej. Mch 25, 184. Claims Same. No Inc.
      Affidavit for Increase in Pension by John Brandon: "State of Illinois, Saline County} SS. In the matter of claim for increase pension of John Brandon, whose original certificate is numbered 79142. Late of Co. "G" of the 31st Regt. Ills. Vols: On this 23rd day of March A.D. 1885, personally appeared before me Wm. W. Thornberry Clerk of the Circuit Court the same being a Court of record within and for Saline County in the state aforesaid. John Brandon aged 40 years a resident of Saline County Illinois who being duly sworn on his oath according to law, declares that he is a Pensioner of the United States duly enrolled at the Chicago Pension Agency at the rate of Twelve (12) Dollars per month by reason of disability incurred in the Military service of the United States while a member of said Companyh "G" in the 31st Regt. of Ill. Vols. That his present physical condition is such that he believes himself entitled to an increase in Pension. He furthur declares that he is disabled in the following manner to wit: that while engaged in a fight at Champion Hill in the State of Mississippi he received a Gun Shot wound in the left side and lung for which he is now being Pensioned, and that as a resulting and further disability and for which he is recuring no compensation from the United States his back bone, or buck is injured in consequence of the ball passing out near his back bone which renders him wholly unable to perform manual labor. He hereby appoints John M. Gregg his true and lawful Attorney to prosecute his claims, that his residence is in Saline County Illinois and his Post Office address is Stonefort Saline County Illinois. Attest James Macklin, Pleasant Taylor. [signed] John Brandon. Also personally appeared before me, Pleasant Taylor and James Macklin each residing at Harrisburg Saline County 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 the claimant John Brandoin sign his name to the foregoing declaration: that they have every reason to believe from the appearance of said claimant and their acquaintance with him that he is the identical person he represents himself to be, and that they have no interest in the prosecution of this claim. [signed] Pleasant Taylor, James Macklin. Sworn to and subscribed before me this 23rd day of March A.D. 1885, and I hereby certify that the contents of the above declaration &c were fully made known and explained to the applicant and witnesses before swearing, and that I have no interest direct or indirect in the prosecution of this claim. W.H. Thorneberry, Clerk Circuit Court, Saline County, Illinois."
      Doctor's report for Pension Increase: "INCREASE OF PENSION. (FOR A BOARD.) Claim No. 79,142 Name of claimant, John Brandon. Rank, pri. Company, G. Regiment 31" Ills. Post-office address, Stonefort, Saline Co., Ills.} ADDRESS OF THE BOARD: Post Office, Cairo. County, Alex. State, Ills. Date of examination, May 20", 1885. WE HEREBY CERTIFY that in compliance with the requirements of the law we have carefully examined this applicant, who states that he is now pensioned at 12.00 disability on account of g.s.w. of left side - lung with results and that he claims an increased rating for the reason that disabilities on increasing and that he is not disable to _ degree for earning his subsistence by manual labor. His pulse-rate per minute is 78; his respiration 22; his temperature 98; his height is 5 feet and 6 inches; he weighs 140 pounds, and he states that he is 40 years of age. Touching his disability and his reasons for asking an increase of pension, he makes the following statement: Alleges that while in the battle of Champion Hill Miss. And on a charge recr. A g.s.w. in left side. Ball passed directly through the lung & back giving him a burning pain in left side extending from breast bone to spine & that in changeable weather the wound is very painful & becoming worse causing sleeplessness with great arrangement of bowels and kidneys. Upon examining this applicant we find the following objective conditions which, in our judgement, do entitle him to an increase rating: We find the conture of chest normal. We find or while & tender as atnix (?) measuring 1 _ by 1/2 marking point of entrance ball passed beneath carcarses and made it exit 1 in to the right of spine at 10" dorsal vertebra was which there is great tenderness on pressure there is no evidence of any of the ribs or spine process having been ruptured no nonformity of the track alley. Trouble with bowels, liver sperm & kidney & frequent cough all seem normal. From the existing condition and the history of this claimant, as stated by himself, it is, in our judgement, _ probable that the disability was incurred in the service as he claims, and that it has not been prolonged or aggravated by vicious habits. He is, in our opinion, entitled to a 12/18 of 3rd Grd. rating for disability caused by GSW left side, _ for that caused by _, and _ caused by_, the sum of which aggregates to 12/18 of 3" grade. Ch. W. Dunning, Pres., J. Yericman, Sec'y,} Board."
      Annual request for Increase: "State of Illinois, Saline County} ss. In the matter of Increase of Pension claim of John Brandon Certificate No. 79.142. Co. "G" 31st Ill. Vol. Infy. Personally came before me a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid A.J. Dixon, who being by me duly sworn upon his oath according to law, states that his P.O. Address is Harrisburg, Saline Co., Illinois who is well known to me to be reliable and entitled to full credit - says in reference to the above claim. Affiant was with claimant John Brandon in the Month of July 1885 at Church in Saline County Illinois and while we were together said Brandon commenced spitting blood and turned pale. I noticed him for awhile when Brandon got up and walked off - he returned after awhile and I said "you had better go home" he said no I will remain until service is over, as I want you to go home with me. I went home with him and as he was not able to walk I took him in my buggy after reaching Claimants house he was obliged to lie to rest. Affaint is not related to claimant nor has he any interest in the prosecution of the claim. Witnesses James Burnett. [signed] Andrew J. Dixon. Subscribed & sworn to before me this 16th day of November 1885. Jno. H. Lee, J.P. I certify that the contents were fully made known to affiant before subscribing the same. Also that I have no interest direct or indirect in the prosecution of this claim. Jno. H. Lee, J.P. Certificate regarding Official Title on file in Pension Office in Claim No. 355.383."
      Another request for Increase: "State of Illinois, Saline County} SS. On this the 17th day of October A.D. 1885 personally appeared before me a Clerk of the County Court in & for the County & State aforesaid, the same being a Court of Record. John Brandon aged 40 years, a resident of the County of Saline and State of Illinois, who being duly sworn according to law deposes as follows. To wit. I am a pensioner of the United States, duly enrolled at the Chicago Agency at the rate of Twelve (12) Dollars per month by reason of disability incurred while in the Military service of the United States, while a member of Co. "G" 31st regiment Ills Inftry Vol. And present physical condition is such that I believe I am entitled to receive an increase of Pension. I am disabled at the present time as follows to wit. Am injured in the Back from a gun shot wound received at Champion Hill Miss. May 16th 1863, rendering me unable to Stoop forward, or lift- any burden. Also, brusing my lungs to bleed if I take cold or cough or exert myself by attempting to life or otherwise. My Post Office address is Stonefort Saline County Ills. The Number of my Certificate is "79142". [signed] John Brandon. Attest, W.K. Burnett, S.L. Cheaney, M.D. Also personally appeared Zachariah Benule and Alfred D. Mandrel residing in Saline County, Ills. persons whom I certify to be respectable & entitled to credit and who being duly sworn say, that they were present and saw John Brandon sign his name to the foregoing declaration and that they have every reason to believe from appearance of said claimant, and from their acquaintance with him, that he is the identical person he represents himself to be and that - they have no interest whatever in the prosecution of this claim. Attest C.J. Provine, W.K. Burnett. [signed] Alfred D. his X mark Mandrell. Zachariah Beul. Sworn and subscribed before me this the 17th day of October, A.D. 1885 and I certify I have no interest direct - or indirect in the prosecution of above claim. W.E. Burnett, County Clerk."
      Request for pension increase: "State of Illinois, Saline Co.} ss. In the matter of increase of Pension claim No. 79.142, John Brandon Co. "G" 31 Ill Infy. Personally came before me a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid, Benjamin D. Lewis a practicing Physician of good repute who being by me duly sworn upon his oath state that I have been intimately acquainted with the above named applicant from the year 1877 since which time I have practised (sic) medicine in his family and have frequently prescribed for him for disease of back and Neuralgia of chest, bowels and arms and shoulders which I supposed and still suppose to be the result from a gun shot wound injury [to] his vertebra. From personal knowledge of his condition and the nature the wound which I examined in a few minutes after he received at the battle of Champions hills Mississippi on the 16 day of May 1863. I should say he is totally unfit for ordinary manual labor. I am not related to applicant nor interested in this claim. My P.O. is Colorado Pope County Ills. Benjamin D. Lewis, M.D. Witness: John S. Mitchell, J.A. Shelton. Subscribed and sworn to before me this 16th day of November AD 1855. Jno. H. Lee, J.P. I hereby certify that the affiant is personally known to me and was acquainted with the contents before signing the same, and that he is reputable and entitled to credit - and that I have no interest direct or indirect in the prosecution of this claim. Jno. H Lee, J.P. Certificate regarding official Title on file in Pension office in claim No. 355.383."
      Another doctor's report: "INCREASE OF PENSION. (FOR A BOARD.) Claim No. 79142. Name of claimant, John Brandon. Rank, Prvt. Company, G. Regiment, 31st Ill. Vol. Inf. Post-office address: Stone Fort, Saline Co., Ill. ADDRESS OF THE BOARD: Post office, Shawneetown County, gallatin. State, Illinois. Date of examination: November 18, 1885. WE HEREBY CERTIFY that in compliance with the requirements of the law* we have carefully examined this applicant, who states that he is no pensioned at a 12/18 disability on account of G.S. would left side and lungs and that he claims an increase rating for the reason that disability is increasing and that he is now disabled to total degree for earning his subsistence by manual labor. His pulse-rate per minute is 98; his respiration 26; his temperature 99; his height is 5 feet and 8 inches; he weighs 134 pounds, and he states that he is 40 years of age. Touching his disability and his reasons for asking an increase in pension, he makes the following statement: That at Champion Hill, Miss. May 18 - 1863 he incurred a g.s. wound of left & chest. Was in Hospital at Champion Hill for three weeks. Thence went to hospital at Inew (?) Ohio. Thence to Benton Barracks Mo. and returned to duty - during rest of term of service. Had pain in chest and back after doing hard work. During the past thirteen years has had pain in back and lungs with spitting of blood. Upon examining this applicant we find the following objective conditions which, in our judgement, do _ entitle him to an increase in rating: Point of entrance in left axillary line between 6th and 7th rib, that of exit - one inch to right of spinal line. Can not delief fracture of ribs or injory to spinal column. We find nothing wrong with lungs. Cicatrix at point of entrance is under depressed and dragging. That of exit presents nothing unusual. There is some lack of muscular tonicity and and (sic, double word) slight ematiation. He has a slight cough to day of a dry character. From the existing condition and the history of this claimant, as stated by himself, it is, in our judgement, _ probable that the disability was incurred in the service as he claims, and that it has not been prolonged or aggravated by vicious habits. He is, in our opinion, entitled to a 14/18 rating for the disability caused by g.s. wound left chest for that caused by _, and _ caused by _ the sum of which aggregates 14/18 3rd gr. [signed] Meritt I. Jones, M.D., Pres., Geo. P. Cassidy, M.D, Sec'y, Jacob Fais, M.D., Treas.} BOARD.
      Increase in Rate Approved: "increase INVALID PENSION. Claimant, John Brandon. P.O., Stonefort. County, Saline. State, Ills. Attorney, Clm't. { Rant, Pvt. Company, G. Regiment, 31 Ill. Vols. Rate, $16 per month, commencing November 18, 1885. Disabled by G.S.W. left side & lung. Submitted Dec. 3, 1885, by A.L. Cowman, Examiner. Approved for g.s.w. of left side and lung. Approved for g.s.w. of left side and lung. 16/18 from Nov. 18, 1883. Wm. M. Goodlove, Q.S. Dec. 11, 1885. John Caulabell, Med. Referee. Discharged July 19, 1865. Original application filed Feb. 19, 1866. Increase application filed Oct - 26, 1885. Increase application filed Oct - 26, 1885. Pensioned Mch 27, 1867; from July 19, 1865; at $8 per month. For as above. Inc. No. 8 12 fr. July 12/76. Inc. rg Mich 35/84 & June 24/85. Claims Same causing lungs to bleed. No Inc."
      Increase in Rate Request: "DECLARATION FOR THE INCREASE OF INVALID PENSION, STATE OF Illinois COUNTY OF Saline, SS. On this 16 day of July A.D. 1886 personally appeared before me the undersigned, duly authorized to administer oaths within and for the County and State aforesaid John Brandon aged 41 years, a resident of the County and State aforesaid who, being duly sworn according to law declares that he is a pensioner of the United States, duly enrolled at the rate of 16 dollars per month, under Pension Certificate No. 49,142 by reason of a disability from Wound of the left side and lung incurred in the service of the United States while a Private in Co. G, of the 31 Regiment of Illinois Vols. That he believes himself to be entitled to an increase of pension on the account of an increased disability and his rate, above named, being unjustly low and disproportionate to the rate drawn by other pensioners for similar or equivalent disabilities. [reason left blank] That he appoints P.J. Lockwood, of Washington, D.C. his true and lawful attorney, to prosecute his claim; that his Postoffice is Stone Fort County of Saline State of Ill. Claimant sign here, John Brandon. Also personally appeared J.H. Blackman residing at Stonefort, Ill. and J.W. Stalions residing at Stonefort, Ill persons whom I certify to be respectable and entitled to credit, and who being duly sworn, say they were present and saw John Brandon the claimant, sign his name (or make his mark) to the foregoing declaration; that they have every reason to believe, from the appearance of said claimant, and their acquaintance with him, that he is the identical person he represents himself to be; and that they have no interest in the prosecution of this claim. J.W. Blackman. J.W. Stalions. SWORN TO and subscribed before me, on the day first above written; and I hereby certify that the contents of the above declaration &c. were fully made known and explained to applicant and witnesses before swearing, and that I have no interest, direct or indirect in the prosecution of this claim. W.R. Stalions, Signature. Notary Public, Official Character. Clerks certificate on file in Pension office.
      Medical Examination for Pension Increase: "[Form No.] (3- 111.) Attention is invited to the outlines of the human skelton and figure upon the back of this certificate, and they should be used whenever it is possible to indicate precisely the location of a disease or injury, the entrance and exit of a missile, an amputation, etc. The absence of a member from a session of a board and the reason therefor, if known, and the name of the absentee, must be indorsed upon each certificate. Increase. Pension Claim No. 79142. John Brandon, Rank _. Company G, 31st Reg't Ill. Vols. Claimant's Post office address, Stonefort, Ill. Harrisburg (Postoffice address of the Board) State.. Date of Examination Augt. 18, 1886. We hereby certify that in compliance with the requirements of the law* we have carefully examined this applicant, who states that he is suffering from the following disability, incurred in the service, viz: Gun shot wound of left side and lung and that he receives a pension of Sixteen dollars per month. Pulse rate per minute, 51; respiration, 20; temperature 99; height, 5 feet 8 inches; weight, 128 pounds; age, 41 years. He makes the following statement upon which he bases his claim for: In cause General health about as it has been for the past years. Is unable to stoop suddenly or lift a weight on account of a sharp pain it gives at the point of injury to the spinal column by wound. Soreness of back part of left lung. Has frequent spells of bleeding from lung invariably following a sudden exertion. The last hemorhage about a week ago. Upon examination we find the following objective conditions: Licathices showing entrance & exit of ball. The first autenior to left scapula and about four inches below Axilla. The second - or exit cicultrix is about an inch to the right of the 7 & 8 vertebra. The ball entered as before said fracturing the 7 & 8 Ribs passing obliguely upward & outward wounding left lung postenirly and passing over the 7 & 8 Dorsal bone, widently unfirming tho spinons (?) processes of (?) [unreadable medical language] which is proven by stiffness and tenderness of back at that point. If there is pulmonay lesion at present it is so obscure that anscultation (?) and percussion does not reveal it. We also find an exastosis of Libr'e (?) about the junction of lower and middle .(?) the result of Gun shot wound. Other organs healthy general appearance feeble. Enter since ball scar large, tender and deprefsel (?). From the existing condition and the history of the claimant, as stated by himself, it is, in our judgement, _ probable that the disability was incurred in the service as he claims, and that it has not been prolonged or aggravated by vioious habits; He is, in our opinion, entitled to 15/18 rating for disability caused by G.S. wound left, side & lung by _, and _ caused by _. S.L Cheaney, Pres., N.S. Hudson, Sec'y, J.C. Mathews, Tres,
      Application Rejected: "Increase INVALID PENSION. Claimant, John Brandon. P.O. Stonefort. County, Saline. State, Ills.{Rank, Pvt. Company, G. Regiment, 31 Ill. Vols. Attorney, P.L. Lockwood Present Fee, $10 act pay. Rate, $ _ per month, commencing. Disabled by GSW of left side & lung. Submitted Sept 18m 1886 by A.L. Corman, Examiner. Approved for GSW of left side and lung. Approved for L.R. No Increase. John L. Caulabell. Sept. 23rd , 1886. Wm. Grinsted, Med. Exc. Discharged July 19, 1865. Original application filed Feb. 19, 1866. Increase application file July 21, 1886 Certificate surrendered _. Last paid at $16 . Pensioned Mch 27, 1867; from July 19, 1865; at $8 per month for above. One to 8 12 frm. July 21/76. Inc to 8 16 frm. Nov. 18/85. Ditto (one) rej. Mch 25/84 & June 24/85. Claims Same.
 

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