Duncans in the Civil War - Illinois - James Henry Duncan

Civil War Record, James Henry 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 133 - Duncan, James H., widow Duncan, Nancy. Co. K, 56th Illinois Inf.; Invalid 1866, September 8, Application #115308, Certification #106023, IL. Widow, 1928 June 14, Application #161602, August 21, 1928, Illinois.
      Initial Request for Enrollment: "STATE OF ILLINOIS, SALINE COUNTY,} SS. On this 18th day of August, A.D. 1866, before me, the undersigned, a Circuit Clerk in and for the County and State above named, personally appeared James H. Duncan, a resident of Saline County in the State of Illinois who being duly sworn according to law, declares that he is the identical James H. Duncan who was a private in Company K commanded by Captain S. Baker in the 56th Regiment of Illinois Volunteers, commanded by Col. G.B. Komer that he volunteered at Golconda in the State of Illinois on or about the 7th day of November 1861 for the term of three years and was honorably discharged at Little Rock Arkansas on the 12th day of August 1865, as will appear by his certificate of discharge herewith presented. That my Post-Office address is as follows. Mitchellsville, Saline County, Illinois. That he was wounded in battle on the 4th day of October 1862. That he was wounded in the right hip. That his wound has disabled him so that he is not able to labor as faming. This his sig. Is not (?) He makes this declaration for the purpose of being placed on the Invalid Pension Roll of the United States by reason of disability above states; and hereby constitutes and appoints RAUM & CHRISTY of Harrisburg, Illinois, his Attorneys to prosecute this claim and procure a Pension Certificate. James H. Duncan. Sworn to, subscribed and acknowledged before me, the day and year first above named; and on the same day personally appeared Robert Duncan and Thomas Hays residents of Saline County Illinois and make oath that they are personally acquainted with James H. Duncan 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. Witnessed by Ezra Cleson, Elisabeth Thomas} Robert Duncan, Thomas his X mark Hays. 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 the claimant is the person he represents himself to be; that I made known to the declarant and witnesses the contents of the foregoing declaration and affadivit before they signed their names, or made their marks to same. IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto signed my naem, and affixed my official seal this 18th day of August 1866. Thas. Y. Reynolds, Clerk."
      Record search for Pension: "adjutant General's Office, Washington D.C., April 18, 1867. Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt from your Office of application for Pension No. 115.308, 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 James H. Duncan was enrolled on the 7 day of November, 1961, at Golconda Ills. in Co. K, 56 Regiment of Illinois Volunteers, to serve 3 years, or during the war, and mustered ionto service as a Private on the 27 day of Feb. 1862, at Shawneetown, Ills, in Co. K, 56 Regiment of Illinois Volunteers, to serve 3 years, or during the war. On the Muster Roll of Co. K of that Regiment, for the monts of Sept & Oct, 1862, he is reported Pvt. "In Hospital St. Louis, Mo., Oct 19, 1862" Muster out roll Dated Augt. 12, 1865. Reports him "Veteran" Mustered out & honorably discharged, nature of sickness not stated. I am Sir very respectfully Your obedient servant (? Signature faded out) Assistant Adjutant General. The Commissioner of Pensions, Washington, D.C."
      Affidavit of John Hase: "State of Illinois, Saline County} SS On this 24th day of December 1867 before me a Circuit Clerk in and for said County and State personally appeard John L. Hase who after being duly sworn according to law deposes and says that he was a 1st Sergt. Co. K, 56th Reg. Ills Vols. during the year 1865. And that he was personally acquainted with James H. Duncan who was a private of said Co. and that he knows of his own personal knowledge that said soldier was wounded in the right hip in Battle of Corinth on the 4 day of October 1863. And that he was wounded while in said service and in the line of duty. That he knows the facts above stated having been present with the (?) said Soldier was wounded. That he resides in Pope Co. Ills and has not interes tin this claim. John L. Hase. Sworn to and subscribed before me the day and year first above written and I certify that the affiant is a reputable person and entitled to credit and that I have no interest in this claim for pension. Thad. Y. Reynolds, Clerk."
      Affidavit of Williamson R. Floyd: "State of Illinois, Pope County} ss. On this 31st day of July 1868 before me a Circuit Clerk in and for said county and State personally appeared W.F. Floyd who after being duly sworn according to law disposes and says that he was Captian of Co. K 56th Regt Ills Vols and that he was personally acquainted with James H. Duncan who was a private in said Co. and that he knows of his own personal knowledge that said soldier was wounded while engaged in Battle of Corinth Miss on the 4th day of October 1862. That he was wounded in the right hip by a gun shot wound. That said soldier was sent to hospital at Corinth Miss. That he knows the facts above stated by having been present with the regiment at the time. That he has not interest in this claim. Williamson R. Floyd. Sworn to and subscribed before me this 31st day of July 1868 and I certify that the affiant is a respectable person and entitled to full credit abd that he is the person he represents himself to be & that I have no interest in this claim. W.Jas. Vinyard, Clr."
      Medical Exam: "Examining Surgeon's Certificate. Harrisburg, Ills, April 25th, 1868. I hereby Certify, That I have carefully examined James H. Duncan, late a Private of Company K 56th Ills. Volunteers Inft. In the service of the United States, who was discharged at Little Rock, Ark on the 12th day of August 1865, and is an applicant for an invalid pension, by reason of alleged disability resulting from wound. In my opinion the said James H. Duncan is one half 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 originated in the service aforesaid in the line of duty. The disability is permanent. A more particular description of the applicant's condition is subjoined. James H. Duncan received a gunshot wound of right hip. Ball passed through the front part of hip so injuring the joint as to cause lameness and pain in walking. Camelnis Baker, Examining Surgeon."
      Request for examination: "(CIRCULAR No. 13.) Department of the Interior. PENSION OFFICE, May 5, 1868. Sir: Will you please examine the Medical Records in your Office, and report for what disease or injury James H. Duncan late Private Co. K, 56 Regiment Illinois Vol was treated whil in Hospital at Corinth Miss. & Jefferson Barracks, Mo. He alleges that he was treated in (?, unclear) in Oct 1862 and then latter in Nov. & Dec., 1862. Respectfully, yours, Joseph H. Barrett, Commissioner. Surgeon General, U.S.A. 112,308 Duncan. JMS."
      Affidavit of Randal Poindexter: "State of Illinois, Saline County} ss On this 10th day of March 1870 before me an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County and State personally appeared Randal Poindexter who after being duly sworn according to law deposes and says that he was 1st assistant Surgeon in the 56th Regt. Ills. Vols. and that he was acquainted with James H. Duncan who was a private in the K 56th Ills. Vols. That he knows that said soldier was wounded in the right hip while engaged in Battle at Corinth Miss. on the 4th day of October 1862. That he was wounded while in the line of duty and in said service. That he knows the facts about Stated by having been with the regiment at the time of said wounds. That he has no interest in this claim or in its desposition. Randal Poindexter, M.D. Sworn to and subscribed before me the day and year first above written and I hereby certify that the affiant is the person he represents himself to beand is intitled to full credit and that I have no interest in this claim or in its prosceution. W.H. Hall, J.P."
      Letter to James H. Duncan: "(No. 4) Department of the Interior, PENSION OFFICE, July 26th 1870. Sir: Please examine the inclosed certificate of Randal Poindexter, a 1st Asst. Surg. In Company _ of the 56 Regiment of Ills. Vols., and return the same with a report as to his rank and the genuiness of his signature. Please return this circular with your report. Claim No. 115.308, soldier's name James H. Duncan. Respectfully, yours, H. Van Aeruam, Commissioner. Surgeon General U.S.A., Present. Room No. 111"
      Medical Exam: "Examining Surgeon's Certificate, IN THE CASE OF AN ORIGINAL APPLICANT. No. of Application 115,308. State: Illinois County: Saline. Post Office: Galatia Sept. 12th 1870. I hereby Certify, That I have carefully examined James H. Duncan, late a Private Co. K, 56th Reg't, Ills Vol Inft. In the service of the United States, who is an APPLICANT for an invalid pension, by reason of, alleged disability resulting from gun shot wound of the right hip. In my opinion the said James H. Duncan is partly 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 belieft that said disability did _ originate in the service aforesaid in the line of duty. The disability is permanent. A more particular description of the applicant's condition is subjoined: Height, 6 ft; weight, 145#; complexion, dark? Age, 25; pulse 74 ; respiration _. I find that the Applicant has been wounded in the right hip and from my observation of the would, the ball prassed through about when the femur joins the pelvis. In my estimate the applicant is entitled to one half pension $4 per month."
      Index of Claim for Pension: "WAR OF 1861. ACT JULY 14, 1862. Brief in the case of James H. Duncan Priv. of Company K, 56 Regiment, Ills. Vols. POST OFFICE ADDRESS OF APPLICANT. Mitchellsville Saline Co. Ills. Enlisted Nov. 7, 1861. Discharged Augt 12, 1865. Application filed Sept 8, 1866. CLAIM FOR INVALID PENSION DECLARATION AND IDENTIFICATION IN DUE FORM. PROOF EXHIBITED. 1. Rolls report Clt. sick in Hospital at St. Louis, Mo. Oct 19/62. 2. Hospital Record shows treatment Oct 20/62 for Debilitas, Returned to duty Nov 12/62. 3. Affr'd of Capt Floyd filed Augt 26/68 shows O.G. S.N. right help in Battle of Corinth Miss. Oct 4/62. 4. Affr'd of Suit filed Jany 3/68 shows above mound no Battle of Corinth Oct 4/63. 5. Affe'd of Randal Poindexter filed March 7/70 whose signature is verified shows G.S.W. of right hip in Battle as stated by Capt. 6. Certificate of Hon. Green B. Raum M.C. filed May 17/70 shows that claimant was wounded under his command and that he visited clt in Hospital. Dr. Bakey April 23/68 shows 1/2 Dis G.S.W. Right hip. Ball passed through the fron part of hip so injuring the joint as to cause lameness and pain in walking. 8. Dr. Grattan Sept 10/70 gives him 1/2 Dis = Height 6 ft., Weight 145. Complexion Dark, Age 25, pulse 70, respiration. Left has been wounded in the right hip. 9. And after my observation of the wound, the ball passed through about where the femar joins the pelvis. Did not Reenlist. Admitted Oct 1, 1870, to a Pension of $3 per month commencing Augt 13, 1865. Disability:_. Disabled by G.S.W. Right hip. Special Contract Dr. P. Leech, Examining Clerk. Case complete prior to Act. Name and residence of Agent: W.M. Christy, Harrisburg, Ills. Fee 10H."
      Medical Exam: " DUPLICATE. SURGEON'S CERTIFICATE. Biennial, Annual, or Semi-annual Examination, on which the Pensioner draws his Pension. State Illinois County Saline. Post Office: Harrisburg Sep. 9th 1875. I hereby certify, That I have carefully examined James H. Duncan, who was a Private in Co. "K" 56th Reg. Ill. Vol. In the year 1861 and was granted an Invalid Pension under Certificate No. 106023, to be paid now at the Agency in Salem, Illinois by reason of alleged disability resulting from G.S.W. in right hip 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 rate of $3.00 per month. A more particular description of the Pensioner's condition is subjoined: height, 6; weight, 146; complexion Light; age, 30. Respiration healthy pulse, regulator. D.L. Chenney, examining surgeon.
      Request for Pension increase: "State of Illinois, Saline County} SS On this 4 day of December 1875 before me a circuit clerk in and for said county and state personally appeared James H. Duncan aged 30 years who being duly sworn according to law declares that he is a pensioner of the United States duly enrolled at the Salem Pension agency at the rate of three 3 dollars per month, by reason of disability incurred in the Military service of the United States. That he was a private Co. K 56th Reg't Ills Vols. That his present physical condition is such that he believes himself entitled to receive an increased pension. And he knowth return his present pension certificate. He further declares that he is disable in the following manner to wit: that he was wounded in the right hip by a gun shot wound at Corinth Miss on the 4th day of October 1862 and that he is so disabled as not to be able to make a support by his labor. That he hereby appoints W.M. Christy his attorney to prosecute this claim. That his residence is in Saline County Illinois and his Post office address is at Mitchellsville Saline County Illinois. James H. Duncan. Also personally appeared William S. Mitchell and Malachi Mitchell residents of Saline County Illinois, persons whom I certify to be respected and entitled to credit and who having by me duly sworn say they were present and saw James H. Duncan sign his name to the (?) declaration that they have every reason to believe from the appearance of the said claimant and the acquantiance with him that he is the person he represents himself to be and that they have no interest in this claim. Attested} W.M. Chris, W.R. Rathbone }William S his X mark Mitchell, Malachi his X mark Mitchell. Sworn to and subscribed before me the day and year first above written and I hereby certify that I made know to the witnesses and affiants the contents of the foregoing before they signed the same or made their marks thereto and that I have no interest in this claim. John M. Gregg, Cir. Clk."
      Medical Exam: "Examining Surgeon's Certificate IN THE CASE OF AN APPLCIANT FOR INCREASE OF PENSION, No. of Certificate 196,023. State: Illinois County: Saline. Post Office: Harrisburg Oct 8, 1877. It is hereby certified That James H. Duncan formerly a Private of Captain _ "K" Company , in the 56 Regiment of Ill Volunteers in the war of 1861 who is not paid at Chicago Agency at the rate of 3 dollars per month, on account, as he states of gunshot wound right hip while in the line of duty in the military service of the United States, on or about.. Is still suffring in consequence of said Gun Shot wound right hip. This disability originates entire from the injury or disease on account of which he was originally pensioned as follows: Height, 6; weight, 147; complexion fair; age 32; respiration normal; pulse normal. Gunshot wound right hip full entered in front passing under or probably scoring pampants liqament exit on apposible side of hip maker; large circutrix - Is quite lame. Complaining of constant pain. States that pain is increased when he rides horseback. Disabited, _ degree entitling him to $6.00 per month. I find his disability, as described above, to be equal to, and entitling him to $6.00 per month. C. Baker, Examing Surgeon. SURGEON'S CERTIFICATE IN CASE OF James H. Duncan, Co. K.56 Reg't Ill Vol APPLICATION FOR INCREASE No. 106.023 DATE OF EXAMINATION Oct 8, 1877 C. Baker, Examining Surgeon, Post Office, Harrisburg, County, Saline, State, Illinois."
      Pension Increase: "Chicago, Increase INVALID PENSION Claimant James H. Duncan. P.O. Mitchellsville, County, Saline, State, Ills. Rank Priv. Company, K. Regiment, 56 Ills. Vols. Attorney W.M. Christy, Harrisburg, Ills. Fee $10. Rate. $3 per month commencing June 4, 1877. $6 per month commencing Oct 8, 1877. Disabled by G.S.W. of right hip. Submitted: Jan 5, 1878 by W. Smubdge, Examiner. Approved for gun shot wound of right hip. Jany 8, 1878 J.P. Davis, Reviewer. Approved for G.S.W. right hip _ from Oct 8/77 Bi. Se. Sig.d, Jan 9, 1870 H. Rushing, Medical Sec, Discharged Aug. 12, 1865. Original application filed Sept. 8, 1866. Increase application filed Dec. 23, 1875. Certificate surrendered Dec. 13, 1875. Last paid at $3 to June 4, 1877 for G.S.W. right hip. Claims G.S.W. Right hip."
      Request for Pension Increase: "88, Declaration for increase Pension. State of Illinois, County of Pope} SS On this 31st day of March A.D. 1885 Personally appeared before me a Notary Public within and for said county and state, James H. Duncan age 41 years a residence of Mitchellvill (sic) County of Saline and State of Ills who being duly Sworn according to law. Declares that he is a pensioner of the United States duly enrolled at the Chicago Pension Agency at rate of six dollars per month by reason of gun shot wound. Received in Military Service of the United States while a member of Co. K 56 Reqt Ills Vols. That his present physical condition is such that he believes him self entitled to receive and (sic) increase pension. And that his present pension Certificate is No. 106.023. He further declares that he is disabled in the following manner to wit - Gun shot wound of right hip which has increased. Equilivant to a total disability and he appoints Geo. S. Carter his true and lawful Attorney to prosecute his claim that his P.O. is Lusk County of Pope and State of Ills. James P. Cullum, Cyrus Duncan} James H. Duncan {seal}. Also personally appeard J.P. Cullum residing at Lusk, Ills and Cyrus Duncan residing at Lusk Ills, persons who I certify to be entitled to credit who being duly sworn say that they was present and saw James H. Duncan the claimant sign his name to the foregoing Declaration and that they have every reason to believe from the appearance of the claimant and the acquaintance with him that he is the identical person he reponds himself to beand they have no interest in the claim. James Cullum {seal} Cyrus Duncan {seal} Subscribed and sworn to before me this 31st day of March A.D. 1885 and I certify that the contents of the above declaration &c was fully main known and explained to the affiicants and witnesses before swearing to and that I have no interest direct or indirect in the prosecution of this claim. Robert Duncan, Notary Public. County Clerk Certificate Felu in Claims of R.S. Alliston No. 172.573. Declaration for increase Pension of James H Duncan, Pri. Co K 56 Regt Ills, Caliment P.O. Mitchellvill (sic) Ills. Filed by Geo. S. Carter, Atty. Lusk, Ills (Pope County)."
      Medical Exam: "No.2, (3-110.) INCREASE OF PENSION (FOR A BOARD.) Claim No. 106023. Name of claimant, James H. Duncan. Rank, Private. Company, K. Regiment, 56 Illinois Post-office address, Lusk Ill. ADDRESS OF THE BOARD: Post Office, Elizabethtown. County, Hardin. State, Illinois. Date of examination, Nov 25th, 1885. WE HEREBY CERTIFY that in compliance with the requirements of the law* we have carefully examined this applicant, who states that he is not paid six dollars per month on account of G.S.W. right hip & results and that he claims an increased rating for the reason that under rates & decreased disability. And that he is not disabled to _ degree for earning his subsistance by manual labor. His pulse-rate is 120; his respiration 20; his temperature 100; his height is 6 feet and _inches; he weighs 151 pounds, and he states that he is 42 years of age. Touching his disability and his reasons for asking an increase of pension, he makes the following statement: That an abcess came from wound in 1878 and broke and run matter for about 60 days and pain since that time has turn more severe and within the last 2 years to pain and disability has increased very much. Riding or walking pain is incurred abd cabbit do but very little labor which requires standing or walking. Upon examining this applicant we find the follow objective which, in our judgment, do entitle him to an increased rating: Ball passed in just at the superior spimina process of the illiness cutting the origin of the sartorious muscle and passino thinning cut 2/3 of the orgin of tenaoux vaginar femorip, wounding the external sillac glands. Swelling of the external illiac glands visible and wounding of external cutamius mirre. Lactiral mortious of left very much decreased. Tenderness on pressure at the point of entrance of ball. From the existing condition and the history of this claimant, as stated by himself, it is, in out judgement, probable that the disability was incurred in the service as he claims, and that it has not be prolonged or aggravated by vicious habits. He is, in our opinion, entitled to a Third Grade rating for disability caused by G.S.W. right hip and result that caused by _, the sum of which aggregates Third Grade. J.E. Greene, Pres., John D. Wood, Sec'y, Bt J.J. Pans, Tres.} BOARD. SURGEON'S CERTIFICATE (FOR A BOARD) IN CASE OF James H. Duncan, Co. K, 56 Reg't Ill Application for Increase. No 106023 Date of examination: Nov 25th 1885. J.D. Warford, Secy Bd. Examing Surgeons. Post Office Elizabethtown. County, Hardin. State, Illinois."
      Pension Increase: "106,025 Chicago (Saline) (3-145.) Increase INVALID PENSION. Claimant James H. Duncan. P.O., Lusk, County, Pope. State, Ills. { Rank, Pvt. Company, K. Regiment, 56 Ills. Vols. Attorney, Geo. J. Carter, Lusk, Ills. Fee $10 agent to pay. Rate $8 per month, commencing November 25, 1885. Disabled by g.s.w'd of right hip. Submitted Dec. 19, 1885 by J.L. Young, Examiner. Approved for G.S.W. of right hip (unreadible signature) Dec. 26, 1885 Reviewer. Approved for GSW of Right Hip Total from Nov. 25th , 1885 App'd E.A.B. John Campbell, Med Referee Dec. 28th, 1885 Wm. L. Conray, Med Reor. Discharged Aug 12. 1865. Originial application filed Sept 8, 1865. Increase application filed Apr 29, 1885. Certificate surrendered No Last paid at $6. Pensioned Oct 22, 1890 from Aug 13, 1865; at $3 per month for G.S. W'd of right hip. Inc. to $6 fr. Oct 8/77. Claims:Same No MC."
      Request for Pension Increase: "[Form] [3-011.] DECLARATION FOR THE INCREASE OF AN INVALID PENSION, THE PENSION CERTIFICATE SHOULD NOT BE FORWARDED WITH THE APPLICATION. State of Illinois, County of Saline} SS: On this 1st day of July, A.D. one thousand eight hundred and eighty-six personally appeared before me, a Notary Public within and for the county and State aforesaid, James H. Duncan, aged 43 years, a resident of the_ of Mitchellsville, county of Saline, State of Illinois, who, being duly sworn according to law, declares that he is a pensioner of the United States, enrolled at the Chicago (Illinois) Pension Agency at the rate of Eight dollars per month, by reason of diability from Gun shot wound right hip incurred in the Military service of the United States while Private Co. "K" 56th Regt Illinois Volunteers. That he believes himself to be entitled to an increase of pension on account of Increased Disability Gun shot wound right hip. Contraction and atrophy of muscles resulting therefrom that he appoints himself of Mitchellsville, Illinois county of Saline, State of Illinois, his true and lawful attorney, to prosecute his claim. That his POST OFFICE ADDRESS is Mitchellville county of Saline, State of Illinois. Claimant's signature: James H. Duncan. Attest: J.A. Shelton, Henry J. Rose. Also personally appeared J.A. Shelton, residing in Mitchellsville and Henry J. Rose, residing at Mitchellsville, persons whom I certify to be responsible to credit, and who, being by me duly sworn, say they were present and saw James H. Duncan, 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.A. Shelton, Henry J. Rose, (Signature of witness) SWORN to and subscribed before me this 1st day of July, A.D. 1886, 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 words all the words, erased, and the words and all the words, added; and that I have no interest, direct or indirect, in the prosecution of this claim. Jno. H. Lee (Signature), Notary Public (Official Character) Certificate on file regarding official title in claim No. 300,925. B. INVALID. CLAIM FOR INCREASE. James H. Duncan, Applicant. Prv't Co. "K" 56th Reg't, Ill Infy Vols. (PENSION CERTIFICATE NOT REQUIRED.) FILED BY Jas. H. Duncan, Mitchellsvile, Saline Co., Illinois."
      Medical Exam: ".Increase Pension Claim No. 106023, James H. Duncan, Rank, Private. Company K. 56 Reg't Ill. Claimants P.O. address, Mitchelville (sic). P.O. of Board Harrisburg, Ill. Augt, 25, 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: G.S.W. of right hip and resulting (?, smeared) and atrophy of muscles and that he receives a pension of Eight dollars per month. Pulse rate per minute, 84; respiration, 20; temperature, 99; height, 6 feet _ inches; weight, 146 pounds; age, 43 years. He makes the following statement upon which he bases his claim for Increase. Says his disability has increased since last examined on account of g.s.w. of right hip. He cannot perform any labor that requires stooping or being on foot. Part of this summer has not been able to walk about suffering great pain and was compelled to use anodynes. Says that he is lame at all time and that the entrance cicatrix supplenated for sixty to seventy days in 1878. Upon examination we find the following objective conditions: Cicatrics showing enterumer and exit of ball. Exterance Cicatrix is one and one quarter of an inch below arterior superior Slpinous proceps of (?), the ball pulsing horizontally through hip, made to exit through glutin through muscles about twon inches above troachanten major. Extrance circutric slightly depresent, and quite tender. The Exit cicatrix of a four plish color, and presents a very smoothe appearance, but no so much tenderness as the former. There is also tender along the track of ball. Muscles of anterid front of thigh including santorius gracits etc. Atrophies muscles of glutial region also wasten. 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 rating for the disability caused by G.S.W. of right hip for that caused by_. S.L. Cheancy, Pres. N.D. Hudson, Sec'y. J.C. Mathews, Treas. SURGEON'S CERTIFICATE, James H. Duncan, Co. K, Reg't 56 Reg. Ills Vol Applicant for Increase No. 106023. DATE OF EXAMINATION: Aug.25, 1886. S.L. Cheancy, Pres., N.B. Hudson, Sec'y, J.C. Matthews, Treas.} BOARD. Post office, Harrisburg. County, Saline. State, Illinois."
      Record of Pension: "WAR OF 1861. ACT JULY 14, 1862. Brief in case of James H. Duncan, Private of Company H 56 Regiment Illinois Vols. POST OFFICE ADDRESS OF AFFICANT: Mitchellsville, Saline Co., Illinois. Enlisted Nov. 7, 1861, Discharged Aug 12, 1865. CLAIM FOR AN INVALID PENSION. DECLARATION AND IDENTIFICATION IN DUE FORM. PROOF EXHIBITED. 1. Adj. Gen. Reports in Hosp. St. Louis, Mo. Oct. 19/62. 2. Hosp. Record of Jeff. Baracks Mo shows admission Oct 20/62 for treatment for Dehtitar - Returned to duty Nov 12/62. 3. 1st Lient testies He was wounded in right hip in battle at Corinth Miss, Oct 31st 1863 (Client in battle of Corinth he fought Oct 2/62. Client aleges near date) 4. Dr. Baker reports Apr. 23/68 Gun shot wound right hip, injuring joint & producing lameness complain in walking..(section of washed out print) Admitted May 19, 1868, to a Pension of $4 per month, commencing Sept. 8, 1886. Disability GSW wound. Disabled by GSW Right Hip. Raum & Christy Harrisburg, Ill. Jas. W. James, Examing Clerk."
      Pension Increase: "[Form] (3-145.) 106.023 Chicago (Saline) Increase INVALID PENSION. Claimant, James H. Duncan, P.O. Mitchellville, County, Saline. State, Ills. Attorney, Calm't { Rank, Pvt. Company, K. Regiment, 56 Ill Vols. Rate $10 per month, commencing August 25, 1886. Disabled by G.S.W. of right hip. Submitted Sept. 30, 1886 by A.L. Camman, Examer. Approved for G.S.W. of right hip. Approved for G.s.w.of rt. Hip 10/18 from August 25, 1886. Oct 6, 1886, A.W. Doan, Reviewer, Geo. M. Rawlin, (?) John Crawford, Med. Referee. Discharged Aug 12, 1865. Original application filed Sept 8, 1866. Increase application filed July 8, 1886. Certificate surrendered _, Last paid at $8. Pensioned Oct 22, 1870, from Aug 13, 1865; at $3 per month for Adm. Inc to 86p Pct 8/77 & w-8 8p-Nr 25.85. Claims Same & atrophy of muscles."
      Pension Increase Request: "Re-rating and Increase of Pension. STATE OF Illinois COUNTY OF Pope, SS. On this 28th day of October A.D. 1887, personally appeared before me the undersigned, duly authorized to administer oaths within and for the County and State aforesaid, James H. Duncan aged 43 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 10 dollars per month, under Pension Certificate No. 106023 by reason of a disability from wound in the right hip incurred in the service of the United States while a Private in Co. K, of the 56th Regiment of Ills Vet Vols, That he believes himself to be entitled to an increase of pension on the account of his rate being unjustly low and disproportionate to his degree of disability. He claims that during the time from his discharge to this date his rate has not been in accordance with his disability, nor in proportion to the rate allowed to others for similar and equivalent disabilities, and therefore he asks that his rating be corrected and he be RE-RATED from his discharged to date in accordance with law. That his Postoffice is Mitchellsville County of Saline State of Illinois. Claimant sign here James H. Duncan. Also personally appeared Stephen Duncan residing at Mitchellsville Ills. and Lulia Duncan residing at Mitchellsville persons whom I certify to be respectable and entitled to credit, and who being duly sworn, say they were present and saw James H. Duncan, 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. Stephen D. Duncan, Lilia Duncan, Two witnesses sign here. 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. Robert Duncan, Signature. Notary Public, Official character."
      Medical Exam: ".Increase Pension Claim No. 106,023. James H. Duncan, Rank, Private. Company K 56 Reg't Ill. Claimant's P.O. Mitchellsville, Saline Co. Ill. P.O. of Board, Elizabethtown, Ill State, February 22, 1888. 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: wound in the right hip and that he receives a pension of ten dollars per month. Pulse rate per minute, 106; respiration, 24; temperature, 99; height, 6 feet 1 inches; weight, 159 pounds; age 43 years. He makes the following statement upon which he bases his claim for Increase. That was rated too low also disability is increasing. Have pain all times in hip and back increasing. Have pain all times in hip and back running up right side into shoulder. Am stiff all over principally on right side. Have not done any work or have not been able to since 15th Aug '87. On that day was taken with pain in hips and was confined to bed for 20 days. Since got up have sharp pain stiff all over. Upon examination we find the following objective conditions: Ball entered just below the ank superior process of the illiame and passing directly backward cutting the insertions of the sartoius and tensor vaginne femoris muscles around the hip bone and coming out on a level with entrance and 1/2 inch above and slightly anteris of the great sacro sactic notch. Both scars are healthy, but slightly adherant contracted and oposturion one is slightly depressed. Slight anaisthusin of outer side of right leg. Also of the trapigins muscles. (?) part of right trapsigins muscles is contracted eterdting point of chin and causing stifness of neah. Around middle of thigh right is 1/2 inch larger that left probably caused from bagging of muscles saroris & tension. Vaginai femoris - tendernas in course of sciatic nerve. Claimant walks with decided limp. No atrophy of muscles on hip. Wound has probably caused nuralgis of art. Cruel nerves dorsal, intercostal and nerve of neck & face. Hearing is irretable but other wise normal. All other organs normal. SERGEON'S CERTIFICATE IN CASE OF James H. Duncan, Co. K, 56 Reg't Ill. Applicant for Increase No. 106,023. February 22nd, 1888. Greg Paris, Pres., A.E. Green, Sec'y. J. Butler, Treas.} BOARD. Post Office Elizbethtown, County, Hardin, State, Illinois."
      Increase Rejected: "[Form] (3-145.) Increase INVALID PENSION. Claimant, James H. Duncan. P.O. Mitchellsville. County, Saline. State, Ill. Rank, Private. Company, K. Regiment, 56 Ill. Vol. Inf. Rate $ Rejected. Disabled by gunshot wound of right hip. RECOGNIZED ATTORNEY: Name P.J. Lockwood, P.O., City. Fee $10, Articles filed not. APPROVALS: Subitted for Action July 12, 1888. Approved for gun shot wound right hip. M.S. Robuh, July 24, 1888, Legal Reviewer. Thorn, Examiner. Approved for no increase JC Geo. S. Fox, am Ex. July 30, 1888 (name faded out), Medical Referee. Discharged Aug 12, 1865. Last paid to _, Pensioned from August 13, 1865, at $3, for g.s.w. right hip. Original declaration filed Sep 8, 1866; alleged said wound Inc. to $6 from Oct 8, 1877 and to $8 from Nov 25, 1885 and to $10 from Aug 25, 1886. PRESENT CLAIM. Declaration filed Nov 10, 1887."
      Request for Increase: "Declaration for the Increase of an Invalid Pension. TAKE NOTICE - If this declaration is executed before a Justice of the Peace or a Notary Public, the certificate of the CLERK OF THE COURT, as to the official character and genuiness of the signature of such officer, must be attached. Neglect to comply with this requirement will cause trouble and DELAY. State of Illinois, County of Saline, SS: ON THIS 4th day of September A.D. one thousand eight hundred and 90 personally appeared before me, a County Clerk within and for the County and State aforesaid before me, a County Clerk within and for the County and State aforesaid, James H. Duncan aged Forty seven years, a resident of Independence Twnship County of Saline State of Illinois, who, being duly sworn according to law, declares that he is a pensioner of the United States, enrolled at the Chicago Pension Agency at the rate of Ten dollars per month, Certificate No. 106,023 by reason of disability from Gun shot wound of right hip. Also resulting Sciatic Neuralgia and and (sic) partial loss of use of right- leg incurred in the Military service of the United States, while servomg as a Private in Co. K, 56th Reg't Illinois Inf't Vols. That he believes himself to be entitled to an increase of pension on account of an increase of disability and he thinks the rate of pension he is now drawing, is unjustly and unreasonably low and disproportionate to the rate drawn by others for similar and equivalent disabilities. He, therefore respectfully asks that he be ordered before a competent U.S. Medical Examining Board that justice may be done him. That he hereby appoints, with full power of substitution and revocation. A.L. Cheaney of Harrisburg, Ills. his true and lawful attorney, to prosecute his claim. His Post Office address is Mitchellsville, Saline Co., Ills. Alsey Harris, W.J. Reynolds (Two witnesses who can write, sign here) [signed] James H. Duncan. Also personally appeared Alsey Harris residing at Carrier Mills, Ill and W.J. Reynolds residing in Harrisburg, Ill [not filled in wrong black] 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 James H. Duncan, the claimant sign his name (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. W.J. Reynolds, Alsey Harris, (Signature of Affiants). . (data lost in fold) On this 1st day of September A.D. 1890 and I hereby certify that the contents of the above declaration, &c, were fully made know and explained to the applicant and witnesses before swearing., and that I have no interest, direct or indirect in the prosecution of this claim. James H. Pearce (Official Signature) County Clerk (Official Character). INVALID CLAIM FOR INCREASE, James H. Duncan, Applicant, Co. "K" 56th Reg't Ills. Inf. Vols. Pension Certificate No. 106.023. Filed by S.L. Cheancy, Agt. Harrisburg, Ills."
      Medical Exam: ". Increase, Pension Claim No. 106023. J.H. Duncan, Rank, Private Company K, 56 Reg't Ill. Inf. Claimant's Post Office address, Mitchellsville, Ill. Post Office address of Board, Harrisburg, Ill State, [Date of examination] Jany, 14, 1891. We hereby certify that in complaince 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 wd. Rt. Hip resulting scratica munalgis & partial loss of use rt. Leg and that he receives a pension of Ten dollars per month. He makes the following statement upon which he bases his claim for Increase. On account of insufficient rating. Upon examination we find the following objective conditions: Pulse rate, 94; respiration, 22; temperature, 99; height, 6 feet 2 inches; weight, 165 pounds; age, _ years. Very well unourished. Though is somewhat bent in form and has expression about his face characteristic of one who suffers from pain. G.S. Wd. Rt. Hip - Entrance immediately in front of anterior inferior spinus process of rt. Os Innominatum. Exit immediately over pt. Acetanodum. Both scare and plainly marked and about the size of silver quarter. So tenderness over entrance at present through clt alleges that up to a few years ago it was extremely sensative. Then is marked tenderness over exit and in places along cause of sciatic nerve. Applicant alleges that every few weeks he is laid up for days at a time with pain originating in right hip and extending down leg. That the (?) nerve learns it from the attack to another so it is painful to him to walk. In obsern that all limps decidedly and that he rests almost his entire weight on left leg in standing. The saiotica. He is, in our opinion, entitled to a 14/18 rating for the disability caused by G.S.Wd. Ins. Sciatica for that caused.is certainly the result of the GSW heart and all other organs normal. D.B. Grattan, Pres. Lot Parrish, Sec'y. Absent, Treas. SURGEON'S CERTIFICATE IN CASE OF J.H. Duncan. Co. K, 56 Reg't Ill Inf. Applicant for Increase No. 106023 DATE OF EXAMINATION: Jany 14, 1891. D.B. Grattan, Pres., C.T. Parrish, Sec'y, Absent, Treas.,} BOARD. Post office, Harrisburg, County, Saline, State, Ill."
      Increase of Pension Authorization: "106023 Chicago (Salem). (3-145.) Increase INVALID PENSION. Claimant, James H. Duncan. P.O., Mitchellville. County, Saline. State, Ills. Rank, Pvt. Company, K. Regiment, 56 Ills. vol. Inf. Rate, $14 per month, commencing January 14, 1891. Disabled by G.s.w. of right hip res. RECOGNIZED ATTORNEY: Name, S.L. Cheaney. P.O., Harrisburg, Ills. Fee $10. APPROVALS: Submitted for Sept. 2, 1891. Approved for Gun shot wound of right hip - other alleged recently (? Unreadable scratch) Sept 7, 1891 Jenkins, Legal Reviewer. Paxton, Examiner. Approved for Gun shot wound of right hip and resulting menalgia. 14/18 from Jan. 14, 1891. WWA Jacksonamx Oct. 3, 1891, Tho. D. Lugram, Medical Refree. Discharged Aug. 12, 1865. Last paid to _ at $10. Pensioned from Aug. 13, 1865, at $3, for gsw of rt. Hip. Original declaration filed Sept 8, 1866; alleged same. Inc. to $6 from Oct. 8, 77, " " $8 " Nov. 25, 85. " " $10, " Aug. 25, 86 - Inc. rej. Aug 2, 88-. PRESENT CLAIM. Declaration filed Sept. 8, 1890. Same & us. Deiglic neuralgia & loss of use of rt. Leg."
      Questionnare: "RETURN TO J. MERRIAM, U.S. Pension Agent, 3- 402. CHICAGO, ILL Certificate No. 106023 Department of the Interior, Name, James H. Duncan. BUREAU OF PENSIONS, Washington, D.C., January 15, 1898. SIR: In forwarding to the pension agent the executed voucher for your next quarterly payment please favor me by returning this circular to him with replies to the questions enumerated below. Very respectfully, H. Clay Evanst, Commissioner of Pension. First. Are you married? If so, please state your wife's full name and her maiden name. Answer, yes Nancy Duncan. Nancy Creed. Second. When, where, and by whom were your married? Answer. Town of Independence, Ills Octr. 17, 1880 by T.R. Brener. Third. What record of marriage exists? Answer. Marriage Duly Recorded in County Clerk Office. Fourth. Were you previously married? If so, please state the name of your former wife and the date and place of her death or divorce. Answer. Jurushia (sic) Duncan died April 15th 1876 at Mitchellsville, Saline Co., Ills. Fifth. Have you any children living? If so, please state their names and the dates of their birth. Answer. James A. Duncan, borned Oct 13th 1881. Nancy J. Duncan borned Nov 13th 1882. James H. Duncan (signature). Date of reply, July 4th, 1898."
      Claim Reissued under new laws: "Chicago, Reissue ACT OF MAY 11, 1912. Cert. No. 106023. Claimant, James H. Duncan. P.O. Stonefort. County, Saline State, Illinois. Rank, Private. Service Co. K 56 Illinois Infantry. W.F.F. Rate, $19 per month, commencing May 31, 1912. ATTORNEY OR STATE REPRESENTATIVE. (Order April 25, 1907.) _. APPROVAL. Submitted for Adm. Jan. 28, 1913, E.F. Salazar, Examiner. Approved for admission, Rate $19 per month; age 68 years. Reissue from general law. Length of pensionable service: 3 years, 9 months, 6 days. Deductions in service from any cause? None. Feb, 29, 1913 W.F. Woeks, Legal Reviewer. Feby 21, 1913, W.J. McComb, Re-Reviewer. Enlisted Nov. 7, 1861; honorably discharged Aug. 12, 1865. Length of pensionable service: 3 years, 9 months, 6 days. Pensioned at $14 per month, under General Law. PRESENT CLAIM, ACT OF MAY 11, 1912. Declaration filed May 31, 1912. Age shown by evidence 68 years; date of birth alleged March 9, 1844. Claimant does write. Hon. H. Robert Fowler, M.C. WFW."
      Pension Declaration: "ACT OF MAY 11, 1912. DECLARATION FOR PENSION. THE PENSION CERTIFICATE SHOULD NOT BE FORWARDED WITH THE APPLICATION. State of Illinois, County of Saline, ss: On this 29 day of May, A.D. one thousand nine hundred and twelve personally appeared before me, a Notary Public within and for the county and State aforesaid, James H. Duncan who, being duly sworn according to law, declares that he is 68 years of age, and a resident of Mitchellsville, county of Saline, State of Illinois; and that he is the identical person who was ENROLLED at Golconda, Illinois, under the name of James H. Duncan on the 7th day of November, 1861, as a private, in Co. "K", 56th Reg't. Illinois, Vol. Infantry in service of the United States, in the Civil war, and was HONORABLY DISCHARGED at Little Rock, Ark. on the 1st day of January 1864. Discharged on Aug. 12, 1865 (qualifying as a veteran). That he was not employed in the military or naval service of the United States otherwise than as stated above. That his personal description at enlistment was as follows: Height, 6 feet _ inches; complexion, dark; color of eyes, black; color of hair, dark; that his occupation was farmer that he was born March 9, 1844, at Mitchellsville, Ill. That his several places of residence since leaving the services have been as follows: only resided since discharge in Saline county, Illinois. That he is a pensioner under certificate No. 106,023. That he has applied for pension under orginial No. _. That he makes this declaration for the purpose of being placed on the pension roll of the United States under the provisions of the act of May 11, 1912. That his post-office address is Stonefort, county of Saline, State of Illinois. Attest: (1) Pmt Denny, (2) Philip Denny. James H. Duncan (Claimant's signature in full). SUBSCRIBED and sworn to before me this 29 day of May, A.D. 1912, and I hereby certify that the contents of the above declaration were fully made known and explained to the applicant before swearing, including the words _ erased, and the words _ added, and, that I have no interest, direct or indirect, in the prosecution of this claim. John H. Denny (Signature), Notary Public (official character). 3-014. ACT OF MAY 11, 1912. CLAIM FOR PENSION, Certificate No. 106,023. Name, James H. Duncan. Service: Co. K. 56 Reg't Ill. Vol. Inf. Filed by H. Robert Fowler, M.C."
      Request to Adjutant General regarding soldier's age: "DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, Bureau of Pensions, Washington, Jan. 18, 1913 E.F.S. Respectfully referred to the Adjutant General, War Department, of enlistment of the soldier named below. Inv. Ctf. 106,023. Name Jas. H. Duncan. Service Co. K, 56 Ill. Inf. J.L. Davenport, Commissioner. [Reply] War Department, A.G.O., Jan. 21, 1913. To the Commissioner of Pensions. The age of James H. Duncan, Co. K, 56 Regiment Ill. I., is shown by the records of this office as 20 years. Geo. Andrews, The Adjutant General. Per E. Receipt of papers acknowledged 3-014, Mail Division. ACT OF MAY 11, 1912. CLAIM FOR PENSION. Certificate No. 106,023. Name, James H. Duncan. Service Pr. Co. K., 56th Regt, Ill. Inf. Volunteers." [ED. - It appears that James H. Duncan was never sure about the year of his birth. The year 1846 appears to be the most accurate date, if so he would have been only 15 1/2 years old when he joined the service. Review of the age claims in Duncan's affidavits indicate a variance in birth year.]
      Request for information: "ADJANT GENERAL'S OFFICE 3187019, Jan 25, 1913. 3-094. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR. BUREAU OF PENSIONS Washington, D.C. Jan. 24, 1913. Respectfully referred to the Adjuntant General, War Department, requesting any additional information the records may now afford as to the presence or absence of this soldier during his military Pemcl. James H. Duncan, Co. K, 56 Ill. Inf. Cty. No. 106,023. J.L. Davenport, Commissioner. WAR DEPARTMENT, THE ADJUTANT GENERAL'S OFFICE, WASHINGTON, Jan. 27, 1918. Respectfully returned to the Commissioner of Pensions, with the information that in the case of James H. Duncan Co. K 56 Ill. Inf. the rolls not quoted in the former statement do not show him absent except as follows: June 30, 65 absent, Pro "Guard of 2 Div. Hd. Qrs." Geo. Andrews, The Adjutant General. Per E."
      Pension Records: "(3-230.) INVALID. (Series S266) Cert. No. 106,023. Name, James H. Duncan. Rankm Priv.; Service, Co. K, 56 Ill. Syn. Mechanics Frisbers Vols. Agency{Original Roll: Salem. Transf'd. Ex. Co., 1877, to Chicago. Issued L Oct. 13 Mailed Oct. 16 Rate Period $10 fro Aug 25. Disability G.S.W, if right hip. Issued Oct. 14, Mailed Oct. 31. Disability G.s.w. of rt. Hip resulting neuralgia. 5 Issue, Class Inc. 4 Issie, Class PMC Entered F.10 Freemane. Issued, Feb.14, 1913. Mailed Feb. 25, 1913. Rate, and Period, $19, from May 31. 1912. Disability: ACT OF MAY 11, 1912. INDORSEMENTS, Clev. 18/88 Clt & ally of fyr. 2 May 11/92. P.J. Jackson, return. Disability: Act of May 11, 1912. .. INDORSEMENTS. Cleo 18/88 & alleged ry. 2 May 11/92. P.J. Lockwood returning arm communication that careful search fails to find the claimant left by heirs to home true filed Nov. 11/89. A.A.A. Jan. 18, 1913 A.G. Frage, E.F. d.
      Declaration for Pension: "ACT OF MAY 11, 1912. 3-014. DECLARATION FOR PENSION. THE PENSION CERTIFICATE SHOULD NOT BE FORWARDED WITH THE APPLICATION. State of Illinois, County of Saline, SS: On this 10 day of March, A.D. one thousand nine hundred and fourteen personally appeared before me a Notrary Public within and for the county and State aforesaid, James H. Duncan who, being duly sworn according to law, declares he is 70 years of age, and a resident of Stonefort, Rt. No. 1, county of Saline, State of Illinois; and that he is the identical person who was ENROLLED at Golconda Illinois, under the name of James H. Duncan on the 7th day of November, 1861, as a Private, in Co. K, 56th Regt. Illinois Vol. Infantry. In the service of the United States, in the Civil war, and was HONORABLY DISCHARGED at Little Rock, Ark. on the 12th day of August 1865. That he was not employed in the military or naval service of the United States otherwise than as stated above. That his personal description at enlistment was as follows: Height 6 feet _ inches; complexion, dark; color of dark; color of hair, black; that his occupation was a farmer that he was born March 9th, 1844, at Saline County in the State of Illinois. That his several places of residence since leaving the service have been as follows: Mitchellsville Saline County Illinis and is to this day. That he is a pensioner under certificate No. 106023. That he has _ applied for pension under original No. 106023. That he makes this declaration for the purpose of being placed on the pension roll of the United States under the provision of the act of May 11, 1912. That his post-office address is Stonefort, Route No. 1, county of Saline, State of Illinois. Attest: (1) Pink Denny, (2) Louis Difenbach. James H. Duncan (Claimant's signature in full). SUBSCRIBED and sworn to before me this 10 day of March, A.D. 1914, and I hereby certify that the contents of the above declaration were fully made known and explain to the applicant before swearing, including word_ erased and word_ added; and that I have no interest, direct or indirect, in the prosecution of this claim. John H. Denny, Notary Public. [Stamped] Declaration accepted as a claim under the act of May 11, 1912, Wallace Streater Chief, Law Division."
      Letter Requesting Increase in Pension: "House of Representatives, Washington, Mar. 16, 1914. Hon. Commissioner of Pensions, Washington, D.C. My dear Commissioner: I have the honor to enclose an application for an increase of pension under the Act of May 11, 1912, of Mr. James H. Duncan of Stonefort, Illinois, late of Co. K, 56th Regiment Illinois Infantry Volunteer, Certificate number 106,023. I will be very glad to have you advise me what evidence is needed, if any, before this claim can be speedily and equitably adjudicated. Thanking you in advance for your kindness, with best wishes, I beg to remain. H. Robert Fowler."
      Letter requesting birth record: "LM/M HWT Section G., Civil War Div., I.C. #106,023, James H. Duncan, Co. K. 56 Ill. Inf. July 12, 1915. Mr. James H. Duncan, R.R. #1, Stonefort, Illinois. Sir: You are advised that your above cited claim for increase for pension under the Act of May 11, 1912, requires a properly certified copy of the public, church or family record of your birth. If there is no public or church record, and a copy of the family record is furnished, the officer certifying to the same, should make a copy of so much of the record contained therein as relates to the date of your birth, and certify, under his seal, to correctness of said copy. The officer should also state when the Bible or other book in which the record appears was printed, whether from the appearance of the writing, he believes the record to be a reliable one. This evidence was called for May 21, 1914, but no reply to same has been received. I.C. #106,023. If you are unable to furnish proof of date of birth you should state that fact, and the reasons why, under oath. You should also state clearly, the state, county and town or township in which you were living in June 1850 and 1860, and with whom you were living; and the full names of your parents, brothers and sisters who were living at that time, and if you lived in a city, the ward, street and between what streets. Very respectfully, G.M. SALTZGABER, Commissioner."
      Reply of James H. Duncan as to birth: "State of Ills, Saline Co.}SS. Feb. 19th 1917. I James H. Duncan of the Town of Independence and County of Saline and State of Ill. do here- by certify that I do not find any written record of my birth my Parents was illiterate people and they left no written record of my birth that I can find and I further state that I lived in Cape Giradraw (sic, Girardeau) Co. four miles north of the city of Cape Giradraw Missouria (sic, Missouri) in June 1850 and I lived in Independence Township Saline County Illinois in June 1860 and further state that I was living with my Parents at the above date and their names was Thomas Ducan and Delilah Duncan and my Brothers and Sisters names are Margaret Duncan, Stephen Duncan, Elizabeth Duncan, Nancy Duncan, Mary Duncan, Sarah Duncan, T.J. Duncan, J.F. Duncan. The No. of my Certificate is 106023. James H. Duncan. Subscribed and sworn to before me this the 19th day of February 1917. Thomas Keneiph, Notary Public. Notary Public Commission expires January 7th 1920."
      Questionaire: "Ctf. No. 106023, James H. Duncan, K56 Ills. 3-389 DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, BUREAU OF PENSIONS CSB Division. WASHINGTON, D.C April 12, 1917. SIR: Please answer, at your earliest convenience, the questions enumerated below. The information is requested for future use, and it may be of great value to your widow or children. Use the inclosed envelope, which requires no stamp. Mr. James H. Duncan, R. Mail (Independence), Stonefort, Illinois. Gn Salzgaber, Commissioner. No. 1. Date and place of birth? Answer: (my Parents told me) I was Borned in Gallatin Co. Ills. The name of the organizations in which you served? Answer. Co. K 56th Ills. Infty. No. 2. What was your post office at entlistment? Answer Mitchellsville, Ills. No. 3 State you present wife's full name and her maiden name. Answer. Nancy Duncan, Nancy Creed. No. 4. When, where, and by whom were you married? Answer. October 17th 1880 in Independence Illinois Married by J.R. Bremner. No. 5. Is there any official or church record of your marriage? Yes. If so, where? Answer. Record in County Clerk Harrisburg, Ill. No. 6. Were you previously married? If so, state the name of your former wife, the date of the marriage, and the date and place of her death or divorce. If there was more than one previous marriage, let you answer include all former wives. Answer. Yes, Jerusha Duncan. She died April 15th 1876 in Independence Ills. No. 7. If your present wife was married before her marriage to you, state the name of her former husband, the date of such marriage, and the date and place of his death or divorce, and state whether he ever rendered any military or naval service, and if so, give name of the organization in which he served. If she was married more than once before her marriage to you, let your answer include all former husbands. Answer: No. No. 8 Are you living with your wife? Answer yes. If there has been a seperation give date of same. Answer. No. No. 9 State the names and dates of birth of all your children, living or dead. Answer. Stephen Duncan, Bornd Oct 9th, 1866. Luella Duncan " Sept 9, 1867, Emma Duncan " Sept 21st 1871, Nervia Duncan " Nov. 21st 1873, Arthur Duncan " Oct. 13, 1881, Nancy Duncan " Nov 13th 1882. Date April 20th 1917. Signature James H. Duncan."
      Request for information of Adj. General: "CIVIL WAR DIVISION, SECTION EXR. 3-094. AK-NCN/GWL DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, BUREAU OF PENSIONS. Washington, D.C., May 2/17. Respectfully returned to THE ADJUTANT GENERAL WAS DEPT. for a further report bearing on soldier's military service showing full personal description at enlistment, age at any date of re-enlistment and all other ages of record. 3 Enclosures InvCtf.106,023. James H. Duncan K.56 Ills. Inf. J.M. Salzgaber, Commissioner. WAR DEPARTMENT, THE ADJUNTANT GENERAL'S OFFICE, WASHINGTON, MAY 5, 1917. Returned to COMMISSIONER OF PENSIONS. The case of James H. Duncan of K.56 Reg't Ill. Inf. the records show personal description as follows: Age 18, height 6 feet, _ inches, complexion dark. Eyes black. Hair dark. Place of birth, Saline Ill. occupation farmer. Age at re-enlistment 20 years. Other records & M.O.R. show age 20 years. H.R. McCain, The Adjutant General."
      Pension Increase Record: "Increased, ACT OF MAY 11, 1912 and Act of March 4, 1913. Cert. No. 106023. Claimant, James H. Duncan. Route 1, Stonefort P.O. Independence [crossed out] County, Saline. State, Illinois. Rank, Private. Service, K 56 Illinois Inf. Rate, $25 per month, commencing March 9, 1914. B $30 from March 9, 1919. ATTORNEY OR STATE REPRESENTATIVE (Order April 25, 1907) _. APPROVAL. Submitted for Adm. April 12, 1917, A Kennedy, Examiner. Approved for increase. Rate $25 per month; age 70 years. Date of birth March 9, 1844. Length of pensionable service: 3 years, 9 months, 6 days. May 9, 1917, D. Cawan, Legal Reveiwer. May 9, 1917, O. Udckis, Re-Reviewer. Enlisted November 7, 1861; honorably discharged August 12, 1865. Length of pensionable service 3 years, 9 months, 6 days. Pensioned at $19 per month, under Act of May 11, 1912. PRESENT CLAIM, ACT OF MAY 11, 1912. Declaration filed March 17, 1914. Age shown by evidence 70 years; date of birth March 9, 1844. Claimant does write. No., M.C. Also stamped Approved for Increase $40 from June 10, 1918, dated Jul 31, 1918."
 

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