Illinois Civil War Records - Sarah A. Brandon

Civil War Record, Sarah A. Brandon, widow of John Brandon (Researched and transcribed by Garland D. Vinyard, posted with his permission, his comments)
      Widow's Pension Request of Sarah A. Brandon
      Opening Request: "WESTERN DIVISION, [Form] 3-368. Jnoleft No. 79142. BRIEF FOR REOPENING. [initials, J.H. M.Z.] Claimant, Sarah A. Brandon. P.O. Stonefort, County Saline, State Illinois, Soldier, John Brandon. Rank, Private. Company G. Regiment 31 Illinois Vol. Inf. Attorney, none. P.O. _. Claim under act of July 14, 1862. Filed May 11, 1908; Rejected July 27, 1908 on the ground that soldier was not entitled to an increase of pension for gunshot wound of left side and lung above second grade @ $30. Reopened in accordance with Department action dated Oct. 31, 1908 - Docket No. 125.161 hereto attached. F.W. Warfield. Dec. 5, 1908 Albert H. Van Deurseuhlee, Examiner, Dec. 5, 1908.
      DECLARATION FOR WIDOW'S PENSION. ACT OF JUNE 27, 1890. Act. May 9, 1900 and 1908. STATE OF Illinois, COUNTY OF Saline} SS. ON THIS twenty Second day of September, 1908, personally appeared before me John Adine, a County Clerk in and for the County and State aforesaid, Sarah A. Brandon, aged fifty-eight years, a resident of Stonefort, County of Saline, State of Illinois, who being duly sworn according to law, upon her oath declares that she is the widow of John Brandon, on or about the Second day of September, 1862, as "Private" in company "G", of the thirty first regiment of Illinois Infantry commanded by Captain Monroe J. Potts, and served at least ninety days in the War of the Rebellion, who was Honorably Discharged at Louisville Kentucky, July 19th 1865 and died 31st day of August 1908. That she was married under the name of Sarah A. Duncan, to said John Brandon, on the 23rd day of September 1880, by William J. Reynolds, at Independence Township there being no barrier to said marriage. Husband had formerly married Nancy Duncan, who died in June 21st 1880. That she has not remarried since the death of said John Brandon. That she is without other means of support than her daily labor. That names and dates of birth of all the children now living under sixteen years of age of the soldier are as follows: [none]. That she has not heretofore applied for pension and the number of her former application is _. 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 27, 1890 and May 9, 1900 also Act of 1908. She hereby appoints, with full power of substitution and revocation, John H. Denny of Stonefort, her true and lawful attorney to prosecute her claim. That her Postoffice address is No. _ Street, City of Stonefort, County of Saline, State of Illinois. Two witnesses to claimant's signature sign here: C.E. Berry, Harrison Brandon. Sarah A. her X mark Brandon. ALSO PERSONALLY APPEARED C.E. Berry residing at Stonefort (P.O.), state of Illinois, and Harrison Brandon residing at Stonefort (Post Office), 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 Sarah A. Brandon the claimant 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 they have no interest in the prosecution of this claim. C.E. Berry, C.E. Berry [signed twice], Harrison Brandon (signature of affiants). SWORN TO AND SUBSCRIBED before me, this 22nd day of September 1908, and 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 22nd erased and the words 23rd added; and that I have no interest, direct or indirect, in the prosecution of this claim. John Odum, Court Clerk. WIDOW'S PENSION CLAIM. ACT OF JUNE 27, 1890-1908. DIVISION. West IC 79142 CLAIMANT. Sarah A. Brandon SOLDIER. John Brandon SERVICE Co. "G" 31. Reg't. Ill. Vol. Inf. ADDRESS Stonefort, Saline County, Illinois. "
      Marriage Record: "Wid Orig. 904,999 CERTIFICATE RECORD OF MARRIAGE, STATE OF ILLINOIS, SALINE COUNTY. I John Odem Clerk of the County Court of said County, do hereby certify that Mr. John Brandon was married to Miss Sarah Duncan in said County on the 23 day of Sept A.D. 1880 by W.J. Reynolds 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 22 day of Sept. A.D. 1908. John Odum, Clerk of the County Court.
      Inquiry: "W.J. FERN. LAWRENCE D. FERN. W.J. Fern & Son DEALERS IN General Merchandise, DRUGS AND DRUGGISTS' SUNDRIES. Tunnel Hill, Ill., Oct 1st 1908. Post Master, Stonefort, Ill. Dr fis - Does John Brandon live in your Town - or in the County - If he live in County how far from Town. Enclosed find stamp for Reply - be kind enough to address by return mail. Respectifully W.J. Fern. [reply] John Brandon died about three weeks ago. He lived about 6 miles East of here. Respectively W.M. Joyner, P.M."
      Claim Entry: "[Form] 3-352. Van Deusen, Ex'r. DEPENDENT. No. 904999 Act of April 19, 1908. Sarah A. Brandon, Stonefort, Ill. wid. John Brandon. Service G 31 Ill. Inf. Died Aug. 31, 1908 other claim. Inv. Ctf. 79,142. Oct. 3, 1908 A.B.V. Clerk. Application filed: Sept. 25, 1908. Attorney: John H. Denny, P.O. Stonefort, Ill. FINANCE DIV. NOTIFIED OF DATE. Notified Oct. 3, 1908 To the Secretary, Oct. 26, 1908. DECISION TO APPELANT, NOV 18, 1908. Nov. 2 of 08 Atty What nondivorce, vans."
      Doctor's Affidavit: "Physician's Affidavit. State of Illinois, County of Saline, SS: In the matter of the widow's original pension Claim No. 904,999 of Sarah A. Brandon widow of John Brandon late of Co. G, 31 Reg't Illinois Infantry. On This 14th day of Oct AD 1908 personally appeared before me, a Notary Public within and for said county and State, duly authorized to administer oaths, R.V. Grace, M.D., aged 58 years a resident of Stonefort, P.O. 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 the afore said case as follows: That he is a practicing physician and has been acquainted with said John Brandon (soldier, deceased) for about 25 years and that he has been employed by him as his family physician for a number of years prior to his death and that he was his family physician at the time of his death which occurred at his family residence in Stonefort Township on the 31st day of August A.D. 1908. His death being caused from lung trouble or disease resulting from a gunshot wound received by him in his lung while in the line of service as a soldier in the United States Army during the war of 1861 to 1865. He further declares that he has been a practitioner of medicine for 25 years, and that he has no interest either direct or indirect, in the prosecution of this claim. My post office address is Stonefort, Illinois. R.V. Grace, M.D. (Affiants Signature). State of Illinois, County of Saline} SS: Sworn to and subscribed before me, this 14th day of October 1908 and I hereby certify that I read the contents of the foregoing affidavit, to said affiant Including the words_ erased and the words _ added. And thoroughly acquainted him with its contents before the same was executed. I furthur certify that I am in no wise interested in this claim nor concerned in its prosecution and that said affiant is personally known to me and he is a credible person. J.B. Campbell, Notary Public, P.O. Stonefort, Illinois."
      Cover: "Act of April 19 - 1908. Record Division, Medical evidence. W.O. #904,999. Sarah A. Brandon, claimant. Widow of John Brandon, Co. G, 31st Reg't. Ill Vol Infantry. Affiant of R.V. Grace, M.D. Filed by John H. Denny, Atty. Stonefort, Saline County, Illinois.
      Affidavit: "State of Illinois, Saline County} SS: In the matter of Sarah A. Brandon widow of John Brandon late of Co. G. 31. Reg't. Ill. Inf. W.O. No. 904,999 personally came before me a notary public in and for the aforesaid County and State, William W. Brandon aged 70 years a citizen of Stonefort County of Saline State of 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 has known John Brandon aforesaid from his boy hood up to the time of his death which occurred on the 31st day of August AD 1908 and from such knowledge say that the said soldier John Brandon first marriage was to Nancy A. Duncan about the 12 day of December AD 1866. And that his aforesaid first wife Nancy A. Duncan died in Stonefort township on the 21st day of June AD 1880. Affiant further states that said soldier John Brandon did then on the 23 day of September 1880 marry his second wife Sarah A. Duncan who is his present widow. Affiant further states that he is positive that said John Brandon has never been married otherwise than stated above and his acquaintance is such that had he been married otherwise he would have known it. Affiant further declares that he is not interested in above case and is not concerned in its prosecution. William W. his X mark Brandon. Walter Brandon, James Campbell [witnesses]. Sworn to and subscribed before me this day by the above named affiant; and I certify that I read said affidavit to said affiant and acquainted him with the contents of the same before he executed the same. I further certify that I am in no wise interested in the said case nor am I concerned in its prosecution; and that said affiant is personally known to me to be respectable and entitled to credit and so reputed in the community in which he resides. Witness my hand and notarys seal this 16th day of October A.D. 1908, J.B. Campbell, Notary Public. P.O. address Stonefort Illinois. Additional evidence. Record Division, W.O. #904,999. Claim of Sarah A. Brandon, John Brandon, Co. G, Regt 31 Ill Vol Inf. ct of April 19 -1908 Affidavit of _ Filed by John H. Denny, Stonefort, Illinois."
      Affidavit of death record: "State of Illinois, Saline County, SS: In the matter of the pension claim of Sarah A. Brandon, widow of John Brandon late of Co. G, 31st Reg't. Ill. Inf. No. 904,999. I have to inform you that there is no public record of the soldier John Brandon's death. That after calling upon the County Clerk of Saline County the proper official to keep such record and having made dilligant (sic) search for such record and not finding it, I therefore write this letter under my oath and ask the (sic) you take in such there of the sworn statement of claimants family physician. Respectfully yours, John H. Denny, atty for claimant. State of Illinois, Saline County} SS Sworn to and subscribed before me this 16 day of October 1908 and I hereby certify that I read the contents of the foregoing affidavit to said affiant and thoroughly acquainted him with its contents before the same was executed. I further certify that I am in no wise interested in the prosecution of this case. J.B. Campbell, Notary Public. Attorney's letter submitting second class evidence of death of soldier by family physician. No. 904,999. W.O. Sarah A. Brandon, John Brandon, Co. G, 31, Regt, Ill, inf. Act of April 19, 1908. Filed by John H. Denny atty Stonefort Illinois."
      Affidavit of Mary Vineyard: "State of Illinois, Saline County} SS: In the matter of Sarah A. Brandon widow of John Brandon late of Co. G, 31, Ill., Vol, Inf., W.O. No. 904,999. Personally came before me a Notary Public in and for the aforesaid county and state Mary Vineyard aged 57 years a citizen of Mitchellsville 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 the aforesaid case as follows: That she has known the claimant Sarah A. Brandon from her infancy up to the present time and from such knowledge declares that she knows that Sarah A. Brandon claimant aforesaid was not married prior to her marriage to John Brandon (deceased) aforesaid upon the 23rd day of September 1880. And that she has not remarried and that her acquaintance is such that had any prior or subsequent marriage been that she would have known it. Affiant further declares that she has no interest in said case and she is not concerned in its prosecution. Frances McCormack, J.D. Duncan, witnesses, where mark is made.}{ Mary her X mark Vineyard, affiants signature. Sworn to and subscribed before me this day by the above named affiant; and I certify that I read said affidavit to said affiant and acquainted h_ with its contents before _he executed same. I further certify that I am in no wise interested in said case, nor am I concerned in its prosecution and that said affiant is personally known to me; that _he is a credible person and so reputed in the community in which he resides. Witness my hand and notarys seal this 20 day of October AD 1908. S. McCormack, Notary Public. P.O. Address: Stonefort, Illinois. Additional Evidence. Record Division, W.O. #904,999. Claim of Sarah A. Brandon, John Brandon, late of Co. G, 31, Reg't. Ill. Vol. Infantry, Act of April 19, 1908. Affidavit of _. Filed by John H. Denny, Stonefort Illinois."
      Affidavit of W.B. Lands: "State of Illinois, Saline County} SS: In the matter of Sarah A. Brandon widow of John Brandon late of Co. G, 31, Ill., Vol, Inf., W.O. No. 904,999. Personally came before me a Notary Public in and for the aforesaid county and state, W.B. Lands aged 66 years a citizen of Mitchellsville Saline County and State of Illinois, well known to me to be reputable and entitled to credit. And who being first duly sworn by me declares in relation to the aforesaid case as follows: that he has known the above named soldier from his boy hood up to the present time. And knows that he was first married to Nancy A. Duncan on or about the 12 day of December A.D. 1866 and lived with her until her death on the 21st day of June AD 1880. And that his second Marriage was to Sarah A. Duncan on the 23rd day of September AD 1880. And that she never married before nor after the marriage state above and that his acquaintance is and has been such that had he been married otherwise than stated above he would have known of it. He further declares that he has no interest in said case and is not concerned in its prosecution. Alonzo Davis, W.R. Henshaw, witnesses to mark} {W.B. his X mark Lands. Sworn to and subscribed before me this day by the above named affiant; and I certify that I read said affidavit to said affiant 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. And that said affiant is personally known to me: that he is a credible person and so reputed in the community in which he resides. Witness my hand and notary's seal this 20th day of October 1908. J.B. Campbell, Notary Public. P.O. Address, Stonefort, Illinois. Addition evidence. Record Division, . Claim of Sarah A. Brandon, John Brandon, late of Co. G, 31, Reg't. Ill. Inf, Act of April 19, 1908. Affidavit of _. Filed by John H. Denny, Stonefort Illinois."
      Affidavit of J.C. Dunn: "State of Illinois, Saline County} SS: In the matter of Sarah A. Brandon widow of John Brandon late of Co. G, 31, Ill., Vol, Inf., W.O. No. 904,999. Personally came before me a Notary Public in and for the aforesaid county and state, J.C. Dunn aged 66 years a citizen of Stonefort Saline County and State of Illinois; also Nancy J. Dunn, aged 68 years a citizen of Stonefort County of Saline and State of Illinois who are well known to me to be reputable and entitled to credit, and who being duly sworn, declares in relation to the afore said case as follows that they were acquainted with the above named soldier John Brandon from his boy hood days until his death which occurred upon the 31st day of August A.D. 1908 and from such acquaintance they are able to state that they were acquainted with his first wife who was Nancy A. Duncan when he married about the 12 day of December 1856. Affiants further states that this marriage was dissolved by the death of the said Nancy A. Brandon on the 21st day of June 1880. Affiants further states that they got these dates from private family records. Affiants further declare that they are not interested directly or in directly in this case nor concerned in its prosecution. Walter Brandon, Julia Brandon, witnesses to mark.{ J.C. Dunn, Nancy her X mark Dunn. Sworn to and subscribed before me this day by the above named affiant; and I certify that I read said affidavit to said affiants and acquainted them with its contents before they executed the same. I further certify that I am in no wise interested in said case nor am I concerned in its prosecution; and that said affiants are personally known to me: they are credible persons and so reputed in the community in which they reside. Witness my hand and notary's seal this 20th day of October 1908. J.B. Campbell, Notary Public. P.O. Address, Stonefort, Illinois. Addition evidence. Record Division, . Claim of Sarah A. Brandon, John Brandon, late of Co. G, 31, Reg't. Ill. Inf, Act of April 19, 1908. Affidavit of _. Filed by John H. Denny, Stonefort Illinois."
      Affidavit of T.J. Duncan: "State of Illinois, Saline County} SS: In the matter of Sarah A. Brandon widow of John Brandon late of Co. G, 31, Ill., Vol, Inf., W.O. No. 904,999. Personally came before me a Notary Public in and for the aforesaid county and state, T.J. Duncan aged 53 years a citizen of Mitchellsville Saline County and State of Illinois, well known to me to be reputable and entitled to credit, and who being duly sworn, declares in relation to the afore said case as follows that he has known the claimant Sarah A. Brandon from her childhood to the present day and from such acquaintance he is able to state upon oath that she Sarah A. Brandon was never married prior to her marriage to John Brandon (deceased) on Sept. 23, 1880 and that she has not since remarried. He further declares that he has no interest in said case and is not concerned in its prosecution. T.J. Duncan. Sworn to and subscribed before me this day by the above named affiant; and I certify that I read said affidavit to said affiants 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; and that said affiant is personally known to me. that he is a credible person and so reputed in the community in which they reside. Witness my hand and notary's seal this 20th day of October 1908. J.B. Campbell, Notary Public. P.O. Address, Stonefort, Illinois. Additional evidence. Record Division, . Claim of Sarah A. Brandon, John Brandon, late of Co. G, 31, Reg't. Ill. Inf, Act of April 19, 1908. Affidavit of _. Filed by John H. Denny, Stonefort Illinois."
      Letter offering appeal of Pension Increase: "[Form 3-1881] Med. Div. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR. BUREAU OF PENSIONS, WASHINGTON, D.C., October 24, 1908. APPEAL CASE. Cert. No. 79,142, John Brandon, deceased, Co. G, 31 Ill. Vol. Inf.} Return with report as directed by the Honorable Acting Secretary. Mr. S.A. Cuddy, Chief of Law Division. Sir: In accordance with the permission of the Honorable Acting Secretary contained in his letter dated September 21, 1908, an order for a test medical examination of this claimant was issued under date of September 26, 1908. This order has been returned to the Bureau by W.J. Fern, M.D., Secretary of the Board of Surgeons at Vienna, Illinois, who was directed to make the examination, which the information that the claimant had died a few weeks prior to the date on which he had received it. Upon a careful consideration of the medical and lay testimony filed in support of the appeal in connection with the evidence previously filed, the medical action of July 15, 1908, rejecting the claim for increase on account of gunshot wound of left side and lung, filed May 11, 1908, from which appeal is taken, is not adhered to. If the case be resubmitted with appropriate legal approval under a claim for accrued pension, an increase of rate of $50 will be allowed from June 3, 1908, the date of the medical examination made under the claim. Very respectfully, Addison S. Helton, Acting Medical Referee."
      A second letter regarding re-opening of claim: "DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, WASHINGTON. Oct. 31, 1908. Certificate No. 79,142 JOHN BRANDON, Co. G, 31 Inf. Infantry.} Docket No. 125,161 Appeal. Dismissed. GENERAL LAW - INCREASE CLAIM. The Commissioner of Pensions, Sir: September 21, 1908, this Department, at your request, returned the papers in the above entitled claim for a test medical examination to determine the soldier's right to a rating in excess of $30 per month, it being contended on appeal filed August 13, 1908, that the claimant required and received aid and attendance by reason of his wounds. It appears the soldier died before the examination could be made but in your report on the appeal dated October 26, 1908, you propose, with the approval of the Department, to readjudicate the claim in accordance with the suggestion of your medical referee who advises the allowance of an increase to $50.00 per month, under proper legal approval of a claim for accrued pension, said rate to date from the last medical certificate which was made June 3, 1908. The Department returns the papers in the claim with its approval of the proposed action and consequent dismissal of the appeal. Very respectfully, F(?) Pierce, First Assistant Secretary."
      Application for Accrued Pension: "Widow's Application for Accrued Pension. State of Illinois, County of Saline, SS: ON this 27th day of November, 1908, personally appeared the lawful widow of John Brandon late private Co. "G" 31. Ill. Inft, deceased; that he died on the 31st day of August, 1908; that he had been granted a pension, Certificate No. 79142, which is herewith _ returned by which he was allowed $30 per month from the 19th day of June 1907 and since increased to $50 per month as shown by the enclosed correspondence dated Oct. 31, 1908 that he has been paid the pension by the pension agent at Chicago Illinois up to the fourth day of July, 1908; after which date he had not been employed or paid in the Army, Navy or Marine service, except nothing that she was married to the said John Brandon, on the day of . 1_, at Saline County, in the State of Illinois, that her name before marriage was Sarah A. Duncan; that she had not been previously married; that he husband had _ been previously married; to her Sister Nancy Duncan; that she hereby makes application for the pension which had accrued on the aforesaid certificate to the date of death and the amount since allowed. She hereby appoints, with full power of substitution and revocation, Jacob Hayer, of Stonefort Saline County Illinois her true and lawful attorney, to prosecute this claim and allow him the compensation prescribed by law, and the commission of pension. That her post-office address is Stonefort, County of Saline, State of Illinois. Attest Robert Matsinger, J.H. Blackman. Sarah A. her X mark Brandon."
      Affidavit for Back Pension Pay: "Western Division, Wid' No. 904,999, Sarah A. Brandon, John Brandon G. 31 Illinois Vol. Inf} State of Illinois, Saline County, SS: In the matter of Sarah A. Brandon widow of John Brandon late of Co. G. 31 Reg't Ill. Vol. Inf. Widows Orig' No. 904,999. Western Division. Original claim for Pension under Act of April 19, 1908. Personally came before me a Notary Public in and for the aforesaid County and State aforesaid S.J. Hancock aged 59 years a citizen of Stonefort County of Saline and State of Illinois, also J.H. Blackman aged 56 years a citizen of Stonefort 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 the aforesaid case as follows: That they have been personally acquainted with Sarah A. Brandon the above claimant since her marriage to John Brandon the said deceased soldier on the 23rd day of September 1880 to the present time. And from such acquaintance are able to say that the claimant lived with the Soldier John Brandon, continuous from the date of her marriage until his death which occurred on 31st day of August 1908 at his residence in Stonefort township in said county and state aforesaid. They further declare that they have no interest in said case and, are not concerned in its prosecution. S.J. Hancock, J.H. Blackman, affiants signatures. Sworn to and subscribed before me this day by the above named affiants; and I certify that I read said affidavit to said affiants, and acquainted them with it's contents before they executed the same. I further certify that I am in no wise interested in said case nor am I concerned in its prosecution; and that said affiants are both personally known to me, that they are credible persons and so reputed in the community in which they reside. Witness my hand and notary's seal this 25th day of November 1908. J.B. Campbell, Notary Public. Western Division, Wid. No. 904,999. Sarah A. Brandon, John Brandon, Co. "G" 31st Regt Ill. Vol. Inf. Act of April 19, 1908. Claimants address Stonefort, Illinois. Affidavit of J.H. Blackman, S.J. Hancock. Knowing continuous cohabitation until death of soldier. Filed by John H. Denny, atty. Stonefort, Saline County, Illinois."
      Affidavit of J.H. Blackman & Simon Hancock: "State of Illinois, Saline County, SS: In the matter of Sarah A. Brandon widow of John Brandon late of Co. G. 31st Reg't Ill. Vol. Inf. No. 904,999. Western Division original claim her Pension under act of April 19th 1908. Personally came before me a Notary Public in and for the aforesaid county and state afore said Simon J. Hancock aged 59 years a citizen of Stonefort County of Saline and State of Illinois also Josiah Hugh Blackman a citizen of Stonefort in said County and State aged 56 years; both well know to me to reputable and entitled to credit and who being duly sworn: declares in relation to the aforesaid case as follows: That they have been personally acquainted with Sarah A. Brandon the above named claimant since her marriage to John Brandon the said Soldier (deceased) which occurred on the 23rd day of September 1880 to the present time. And from such acquaintance are able to state that the claimant lived with the said solder John Brandon continuously from the date of her marriage until his death which occurred on the 31st day of August 1908 at his residence in Stonefort township in said County and State aforesaid. They further that they have no interest in said case and are not concerned with its prosecution. {Josiah Hugh Blackman, Simon J. Hancock, affiants signatures. Sworn to and subscribed before me this day be the above named affiants; and I certify that I read said affidavit to said affiants. And acquainted them with its contents before they executed the same. I further [state] that I am in no wise interested in said case nor am I concerned in its prosecution; and that said affiants are both personally known to me, that they are credible persons and so reputed in the community in which they reside. Witness my hand and notarys seal this 30th day of November 1908, J.B. Campbell, Notary Public. Western Division, Wid. No. 904,999. Sarah A. Brandon, John Brandon, Co. "G" 31st Regt Ill. Vol. Inf. Act of April 19, 1908. Claimants address Stonefort, Illinois. Continuous cohabitation of wife and husband until death of soldier. Filed by John H. Denny, atty. Stonefort, Saline County, Illinois."
      Restoration of Increase: "[Form] 3-855. Certificate No. 79.142. Increase INVALID PENSION. Claimant, John Brandon (dead) Sarah A. Brandon, widow completing. P.O. Stonefort, County, Saline, State, Illinois. Rank, Private, Company, G, Regiment, 31 Illinois Vol. Inf. Rate, $50 per month commencing June 3, 1908 Ending August 31, 1908 Dead. Pensioned for Gsw of left side and lung. RECOGNIZED ATTORNEY. No. APPROVALS. Submitted for Adm. Dec. Approved for gunshot wound of left side of lung. Alleges constant aid and attendance. Restoration to allow increase. Terminate pension August 31, 1908, date of soldier's death, and pay widow as above. December 8, 1908, J.E. Thompson, Legal Reviewer. Dec,. 8, 1908, R.C. Rynex, Re-Reviewer. Approved for gunshot wound of left side and lung $50 per month from June 3, 1908. Upham, Medical Examiner. (?) Medical Reviewer. Dec. 10, 1908 C.F. Whitney, Medical Referee. Enlisted Sept 1, 1862. Discharged July 19, 1865 Last paid to July 4, 1908. Pensioned at $30 per month for gunshot wound of left side and lung. PRESENT CLAIM. Declaration filed May 11, 1908, claims increased from pensioned cause and alleges constant aid and attendance. Soldier died and attendance. Soldier died Aug. 31, 1908. Claimant does not write."
      Widow's Pension: "[Form] 3-367, No. 904,999. ACT OF APRIL 19, 1908. WIDOW'S PENSION. Clamiant, Sarah A. Brandon. P.O. Stonefort. County, Saline, State, Illinois. Soldier, John Brandon. Rank, Private, Co. G. Regiment, 31 Illinois Vol. Inf. Rate, $12 per month, commencing September 25, 1908. [no minor children]. RECOGNIZED ATTORNEY. Name, John H. Denny. P.O., Stonefort, Ill. Fee, $10. APPROVALS. Submitted for Ad Dec, 1908; Albert H. Van Dusen, Examiner. Approved for Admission under the Act of April 19, 1908. December 8, 1908, J.E. Thompson, Reviewer. Dec. 8m 1908, R.C. Rynex, Reviewer. The soldier was last pensioned at $30 per month general law. Enlisted, Sept. 1, 1862. Honorably disch'd, July 19, 1865. Reenlisted, no other service. Died, August 31, 1908. Declaration filed, September 25, 1908. Claimant does not write. Soldier's application filed Feb, 19, 1866. Clt's application under other laws, none. Former marriage of soldier Dec. 12, 1866. Death of former wife Nancy June 21, 1880. Clt's marriage to soldier, Sept 23, 1880. Cl't not remarroed, nor divorced."
      From Final Records of John Brandon: "Release { Increase, 3 Inc. N7, Illinois. No. 79.142. Name John Brandon, Rank Private, Company:G. Reg't 31. Ills. Vols. Salem, Chicago} Agency. RATE PER MONTH. AND DATE OF COMMENCEMENT. First Issue{ $12 Comm'g July 12, 187 [last number in black margin?] Rec'd payments - made since. Issue { $16 Comm'g Nov. 18, 1883. DATE OF CERTIFICATE AND TO WHOM SENT. 1st June 29, 77 Sent to July 10, 77. Atty. J.M. Siminken, Saline Ills. Issue Dec 18, 1885 Sent to Dec. 22 1885. Act 14th July, 1862, Bk. G. Vol. 10, Page 61. Registering Clerk, M. Kinney. Disability{ GSW of Left side & lung. 8- 76-12. 25/84 Inc. Rej. . Sep 19/89 atty. & chg ry. May 19.90 _. Atty & clt. Op y."
      Final Record for John Brandon: "[Form](3-230.) INVALID (Series_) Cert. No. 79142. Name, John Brandon, Decd. Rank, Pvi.; Service, Co G 31 Ill. Vol. Inf. Agency{ Roll: Chicago. Issued Dec. 22, 1892, Mailed Jan 7, 1893. Rate and Period $24 from Oct. 1, 1896. Deductions: DEAD. Disability G.S.Wd. of left side & lung. Lgl. Issued Aug 7, 1907. Mailed Aug 8, 1907. Rate and Period, $30.00, from June 19, 1907. Issued, Amp Dec. 14, 1908. Mailed Dec. 15, 1908, from June 3, 1908 & to end Aug. 31, 1908 date of death. Sec Wid Rel. 669802. INDORSEMENTS. July 27/08 Ry Clmt. Notified, memJ (?). To the Secretary, SEP 15 1908. OCT 7, 1908 to DEAD. Auditor and Pension Agent advised JCJ DROPPED."
      Widow's Certificate: "Act of April 19, 1908. No. 69802, Original. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, DEPARTMENT of the INTERIOR, BUREAU OF PENSIONS. It is hereby certified That in conformity with the laws of the United States Sarah A. Brandon, Widow of John Brandon who was Private Co. G 31 Regt, Illinois Vol. Inf. is entitled to a pension at the rate of Twelve dollars per month, to commence on the Twenty fifth day of September 1908 and to continue during her widowhood. Given at the Department of the Interior this Fourteenth day of December one thousand nine hundred and eight and of the Independence of the United States of America the one hundred and thirty third. Present Randolph Garfield, Secretary of the Interior. Countersigned, V. Warren, Commissioner of Pensions, Amj."
      Undertaker's Statement for Sarah Brandon Burial: "H.S.B & Co., Edgar-Miller Hdw. Co., CARRIER MILLS, ILL. HARDWARE, TINWARE, STOVES, PAINTS AND OTHER LINES, 1-2-1918. To whom this may concern: This is to certify that I am the undertaker that Deposited the Remains of Sarah A. Brandon Deceased: In Reeds Chappel on or about 12-4th - 1918 and hold Walter Brandon her son responsible for expense of same to the amount of $95.50. Edgar Miller, undertaker, Carrier Mills, Ill."
      Letter of Walter Brandon for claims: "Carrier Mills Ills, March 24-19. Commissioner of Pensions. Dear Sir: I am inclosing papers filled out as required except the to sworn statements of witnesses who had personal knowlidge (sic) of the facts in this case and am unable to find these so far as my mother lived near my house and the commissioner would except my self and wife we could but as I under stand that it is to witnessess out side of family and in empoy. To Livery Company, Doctors and mothers Expenses there were none as we couldn't get any doctor to come to see my mother and as to Livery and cemetery and burial to'l will state that it is a public burney (sic, burial) ground all free and will state further that if you will forward to Edgar Miller the undertaker in which has the only claim against me for my mother which will show the formal statement of Mr. Miller the amount due me my mother the amount of $50.00. I will give the government a clear receipt in the matter awaiting reply. I beg to remain, Walter Brendon." [ED., Brandon wrote in rambling style without any sentence punctuation.
      Claim of Undertaker for Pensioner's Death Benefit: "[Form] (808) The pension accruing from date of last payment to date of pensioner's death in this case is $50 and no greater sum is available for reimbursement. REIMBURSEMENT. I hereby certify that I hold Walter Brandon responsible for the payment of any portion of the accrued pension to which I may be entitled for services rendered, supplier furnished, or money expended during the last sickness and burial of Sarah A. Brandon late a pensioner by certificate number 669.802 (Widow) (This need not be sworn to.) Edgar Miller, Undertaker."
      Commissioner's letter: "A & N Div., R.S. FJR/omr April 3, 1919. Mr. Walter Brandon, Carrier Mills, Saline Co., Illinois. Sir: In your claim for reimbursement in the case of Sarah A. Brandon, Wid. Ctf. 669802, and in response to your communication of the 24th ultimo, you are advised that there should be furnished the sworn statements of two witnesses showing the date of your mother's death; whether she left any property, and if so, the character and value of same. The sworn statements of members of your family will be considered if there are no other parties available to furnish the required information. The enclosed certificate should be signed by Mrs. Frank Chamness, and returned to this Bureau. Very respectfully, G.M. SALTZGADER, Commissioner."
      Commissioner's followup: "A & N Div., R.S. FJR/omr April 25, 1919. Mr. Walter Brandon, Carrier Mills, Saline Co., Ill. Sir: In your claim for reimbursement in the case of Sarah A. Brandon, Wid. Ctf. 669802, you are advised that you should furnish a statement from a member of the board of supervisors of your town showing whether an application has been presented to him for the purpose of obtaining an allowance for the burial expenses of the pensioner at the next session of the board, and if so, the action taken thereon. You should furnish an additional statement showing the disposition made of the household goods left by your mother. Very respectfully, G.M. SALTZGADER, Commissioner."
      Reply of Walter Brandon: "Carrier Mills, Ill. April 28-19. Commissioner of Pensions. Dear Sir: I am in receipt of your letter of covers (?) date in which you state that I must furnish you whith (sic, with) a statement from the member of the board of supervisors if you will look up your records in this case you will find there is a statement from L.M. Arnold Supervisor of the County Board of Supervisors that there is no claim filed for burial and if that statement was to have been sworn to you should have so instructed me in your previous letter as you have advised me in some instances to be sworn to as this cost me money for these affidadids (sic) and is to while the house hold good left of my mothers I can under stand why the commissioner inquire in to this far as this accrued Pension I understand is due my Mother at death and her heirs and as the undertaker holds me responsible for the funeral expenses as I have not ask the commissioner to bury my mother only pay that which is due her as her legal heirs now if their need inquire in to the same state that my mother's things was divided among the five children or her bodily heirs and if you require and (? Unreadible) to this Pleas advise me and I will send you all proofs at one time. Very Truelly, Walter Brandon."
      Drop Statement for Sarah Brandon: "[Form] 3-1081 PENSIONER DROPPED, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR. BUREAU OF PENSIONS. Certificate No. 669.802 Class ACT OF APRIL 16, 1908. Pensioner Sarah A. Brandon. Soldier, John. Service G. 31 Ill Vol Inf. The Commissioner of Pensions. Sir: I have the honor to report that the name of the above-described pensioner who was last paid $25, to Oct 4, 1918 has this day been dropped from the roll because of death Dec. 3, 1918. Carrier Mills, Ill. Very respectfully, W. (unreadable signature) Chief, Finance Division. Check No. 3338805 Dated 4 Jan 1919 Certified"
      Letter Walter Brandon to Commissioner: "Carrier Mills Ills, 12-9-18. Commissioner of Pensions Dear Sir: My mother Sarah A. Brandon Widow of John Brandon who was a Private in Co. G 31st Reg. Illinois Infy. Who was (?) under Pension Cert'fy No. 669802 died Dec 3rd and she left no property only a few house hold goods not enough to pay the funeral expenses and if there is any way we can get her Pension due her up until she died without having a administrator appointed to share expenses Please notify me. Very Truelly, Walter Brandon, son of deceased widow."
      Return Check: "25, OCT 4, 1918. To the Chief, Finance Division: JAN 28, 1919. You are hereby notified that check #3338805 for $75 dated JAN 4, 1919 in favor of SARAH A. BRANDON, post-office CARRIER MILLS, ILL. certificate #669802 ACT APR. Class Act April Section 2 has been returned to this office by the Postmaster with the information that the pensioner died Dec. 3 -1918 and said check has this day been canceled. Very respectfully, GUY O. TAYLOR, Disbursing Clerk."
      Application for Reimbursement: "[Form] 3-044. APPLICATION FOR REIMBURSEMENT. STATE OF Illinois, COUNTY OF Saline} SS: On this 1st day of January A.D. one thousand nine hundred and 19 personally appeared before me a Notary Public within anf to the County and State aforesaid, Walter Brandon, aged 33 years, a resident of Carrier Mills, County of Saline, State of Illinois, who, being duly sworn according to law, makes the following declaration in order to obtain reimbursement from the accrued pension for expenses paid (or obligation incurred) in the last sickness and burial of Sarah A. Brandon, who was a pensioner of the United States by certificate No. 669802, on account of the service of John Brandon in Co. G, 31st Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry. That pension was last paid to October 4, 1918. That the answers to questions propounded below are full, complete, and truthful to the best of my knowledge, information, and belief, and that no evidence necessary to a proper adjustment of all claims against the pension is suppressed or withheld. [ED - some questions not answered left out] 1. What was the full name of the deceased pensioner? Sarah A. Brandon. 2. In what capacity was decendent pensioned? Widow. 4. Did pensioner leave a child under 16 years of age? No. 6. Were any sick or death benefits paid on pensioner's account? No. 7. Was there insurance (life, accident, or health) in force on life of pensioner at time of death? (no). 8. If no, give the name of each company in which a policy was carried and the amount in which each policy was written. None. 13. Is there an executor or administrator, or will application be made for appointment of any person as administrator? No. 14. Did the deceased pensioner leave any money, real estate, or personal property? Household effects only. 18. Did pensioner leave an unindorsed pension check? No. 19. What was your relation to the deceased pensioner? Child. 20. Are you married? Yes. 21. What was the cause of pensioner's death? Influenza. 22. When did the pensioner's last sickness begin? Nov. 29, 1918. 23. From what date did the pensioner become so ill as to require the regular and daily attendance of another person constantly until death? Dec. 1st 1918. 24. Give the name and post-office address of each physician who attended the pensioner during last sickness. None. 25. State the names of the persons by whom the pensioner was nursed during the last sickness. Myself - wife and Mrs. Frank Chamness. 26. Where did the pensioner live during last illness? Carrier Mills, Ill. 27. Where did the pensioner die? Carrier Mills, Ill. 28. When did the pensioner die? Dec 3rd 1918. Where was the pensioner buried? Reeds Chapel - Saline Co. Ill. 30. Has there been paid, or will application be made for payment to you or any other person, any part of the expenses of the pensioner's last sickness and burial by any State, County, or municipal corporation? Yes 31. State below the expenses of the pensioner's last sickness and burial. Write the word none where no charge is made in case of any item of expense noted. .. Physician, no charges. Medicine. no charges. Mrs. Frank Chamness, Nursing and care, no charges. Undertaker $5.00 paid, $97.50. Livery, none. Cemetery, none. Other expenses and their nature, none. Total $97.50. 32. Is the above a complete list of all the expenses of the last sickness and burial of the deceased pensioner? Yes. That my post-office address is No. _ on _ street, town or city of Carrier Mills, County of Saline, State of Ills. Sarah A. Brandon, Wid. Cert #669.802. Walter Brandon (Claimant's signature in full).
      Follow-up letter of Walter Brandon: "Carrier Mills, Ills., Feb. 10 -1819 (sic, 1919). Commissioner of Pension. Dear Sir: In regards to my mothers Sarah A. Brandon late widow (deceased) of John Brandon, Claim for accrued Pension as I mailed cert. and claim all filled out some 4 weeks ago and as undertaker is needing the money and is holding me responsible would like for you to speed this claim up and sent to Edgar Miller undertaker or to me. Please let me know in regards to this at early date. Very Truelly, Walter Brandon."
      Letter from County Board of Supervisors: "March 18, 1919, Carrier Mills, Jlh (?) in regard to Sarah Brandon Penchion (sic, pension) claims their (sic) has been no claim filed for funeral expenses with me. L.M. Arnold, Supervisor."
      Claim of Mrs. Frank Chamness: "[Form] (808) The pension accruing from the date of last payment to date of pensioner's death in this case is $50 and no greater sum is available for reimbursement. REIMBURSEMENT. I hereby certify that I hold Walter Brandon responsible for the payment of any portion of the accrued pension to which I may be entitled for services rendered, supplies furnished, or money expended during the last sickness and burial of Sarah A. Brandon, late a pensioner by certificate number 669,802. Mrs. Frank Chamness (This need not be sworn to.)"
      Reimbursement Allowance: "[Form] (3-732) No. 669802. Act of April 19, 1908. Sarah A. widow of John Brandon, Rank Pvt. Company G. Regiment 31 Ill, Vol. Inf. Rate per Month $12 Commencing Sept 25, 1908. Chicago Agency Issued Dec. 14, 1908. REIMBURSEMENT letter to Walter Brandon." [Stamped Reimbursement Allowed May 2, 1919.
      Reimbursement Statement: "[Form] 3-810. REIMBURSEMENT. Claimant Walter Brandon, Street and No. _, P.O. Carrier Mills, State Illinois. Pensioner Sarah A. Brandon, Class Widow. Law Act of April 19, 1908. Agency Group #1. Rate, $25. Last paid to Oct. 4, 1918 at $25. Last illness commenced Dec. 1, 1918, Date of death Dec. 3, 1918. Accrued pension $50. [only amount claimed listed] Undertaker's bill $95.50 Charges allowed $95.50. DEDUCTIONS. State aid - None. [no other assets or insurance listed] Charges approved $95.50. May 2, 1919 F.S. Robinson, Examiner. May 26, 1919 Wm. A. Harris, Rev'r. May 28, 1919 M.H. Stout, Re Reviewer."
      Reimbursement of back pension: "Robinson 1918 -12-3, 10-4, 2- 0 = $50. [Form] 3-812. REIMBURSEMENT Certificate No. 669.802. Pensioner Sarah A. Brandon Class WIDOW Date of Death Dec. 3, 1918. Claimant Walter Brandon Post Office Carrier Mills, Saline Co., Ill. Received Jan 6, 1919. Mar 13, 1919 Clt for writ fr Mem. Of Bd. Sup. As to aid. List of expenses. Bills or livery and cemetery, if any Wils as to date of death and any property. Cert. Of Mrs. Chamness. F.S.R. APR 3, 1919 Clt. Wits as to date of wids death and any property. Cert. Fr. Mrs. Chammers. F.S.R. APR 25, 1919 Clt. For Wit fr Mem of Bd of Supl as to any aid Disp. Made of h.h. goods. F.S.R. Aid No."
      Certified Statement on Sarah Brandon property: "CARRIER MILLS, ILL. STATE OF ILLINOIS, SALINE COUNTY} SS. PERSONALLY APPEARED BEFORE ME a Notary Public, in and for the County of SALINE, and State of ILLINOIS. WALTER BRANDON, and CLARA BRANDON, Each of whom states on their Oath, That SARAH A. Brandon, Died on the third (3rd) Day of Dec. A.D. 1918, and that the only property possessed by her at the time of her death, consisted of a small amount of Household Goods worth not to exceed Fifty ($50.00) Dollars. Walter Brandon, Seal. Clares Brandn (sic Brandon). Subscribed affirmed to before Me this 19th Day of April A.D. 1919. Geo. B. Dodds, Notary Public."
 

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