Applications for Passes, 1776-1790, Pennsylvania's Revolutionary Governments

APPLICATIONS FOR PASSES, 1776—1790 PENNSYLVANIA’S REVOLUTIONARY GOVERNMENTS (CONTINUED FROM 45:247)1 28 October 1779. Ann Shroudy of the City of Philadelphia, whose husband William Shroudy, late of the City of Philadelphia, mariner, having been during this present unnatural conflict between Great Britain and the North American States under the power of the British government and army and finding no convenient opportunity to leave them, hath divers times solicited her to come to New York that he may have it in his power to provide for her support and maintenance more readily, requests pass for herself and her niece Jane Lowrey to go to New York and thence to Great Britain, offering William Rush Esq’r and William Moulder of the said City as securities. Character endorsement that Mrs. Shroudy and her husband are each good friends to the American States by Jos. Cowperthwaite, James Duncan, Wm Hodge, And’w Hodge, Hugh Hodge, James Johnston, Joseph Ker, Joseph Rush, Ja’s Craig junr, Peter Knights, Rob’t Mullan Capt’n Marines, Lewis Farmer, Jeremiah Fisher, Anthony Wilkinson.2 22 May 1781. William Allmore requests a pass for Mrs Rachel Sikes (widow of George Sikes) to go to New York with Miss Betsey O’Brien, daughter of William O’Brien Esq’r of Jamaica, a young lady of about 13 years of age, who was first here about seven years since to be educated; her Father has lately sent for her, and desires her to be sent by that route; Mrs. Sikes is desirous of accompanying her to New York, not only to take care of the child, but also to solicit from Mr. O’Brien’s correspondent there the payment of her account for the child’s education and maintenance amounting to upwards of 200 Guineas, which from his letter (received by the Flag lately from New York) she hopes to receive on her applying for it personally at that place. [No indication if granted.] 17 4th month [April] 1782, New York. “Dear Rachel, This is to acquaint thee of our Arrival here the other day from Charlestown with Intention to go to Philadelphia as soon as possible but find that without permission from Congress we wou’dn’t be allow’d to pass through the Country, so dear Rachel I beg thee will use thy Interest in procuring a Pass for me my Son Joseph and daughter Rachel, and send it to me with all the Speed thee can, direct to me to the Care of Thos. Mendenhall Wm. Street I expect to get a flag to Elizabeth town, perhaps thee 1 Records of Pennsylvania’s Revolutionary Governments 1775—1790, Pennsylvania State Archives Record Group 27, 54 rolls of microfilm. The passes comprise all of roll 30. Originals are at the Bureau of Archives and History, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, Harrisburg. In addition to the Pennsylvania Archives Reading Room in Harrisburg, this microfilm is at the Family History Library in Salt Lake City (FHL #1,759,080) and the Genealogy Section of the Dallas [Texas] Public Library. 2 The jacket of her petition says “1779 October 28. Petition of Mrs Anna Shroudy” then in a different ink “Read in Council Feb’y 18 1780–granted.” The Council minutes of 3 November 1779 indicate that the petition was read and considered, but not granted; the minutes of 18 February 1780 indicate the petition was read and granted (Colonial Records of Pennsylvania: Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania, 16 volumes [Harrisburg: State of Pennsylvania, 1851—53], 12:157, 256). Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine Vol. 45 (2008) Final copy 28 October, 2008 361 362 Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine Vol. 45 cou’d get some friend to come meet us at Elizabeth Town–all from thy aff’t Father Thos. Sikes. N.B. for fear one Letter should miscarry I have sent two.” 3 May 1782 (date read in Council). Joseph Hillborn on behalf of Thomas Sikes late an Inhabitant of Ireland lately arriv’d at New York with intention to settle in some of the United States requests pass for him, his son Joseph, and his daughter Rachel. [Granted on condition.] 2 October 1782, Philadelphia. Jacob Siltzel (German signature) of Philadelphia baker, for the purpose of seeking some employment and better providing for his family, requests pass to go to Albany where he has some friends and relations and in his way call for work in the French Army where he has several acquaintances and has been used to bake for the Kings Troops in the last war in Germany. [Granted.] 19 August 1779, Philadelphia. Susanna Simmons of the City of Philadelphia, whose husband John Simmons has been absent from her since the English left the City and is now in the City of New York, has three small children and her aged mother to maintain for whose support she has struggled hard but finds herself unable any longer to provide for herself and them, the winter season fast approaching, requests pass for them, 2 beds and 2 small trunks, one for herself and one for her aged parent. [No indication if granted. 3] Character endorsement by Jos. Cowperthwaite, William Rush, Jas. Craig junr, and Geo: Glennworthy. 27 August 1779. Bond for £500 by William Rigby of the City of Philadelphia joiner and Windsor chairmaker that Susanna Simmons, who has received permission to go to New York, will not return without permission. Witnesses Georg Heÿl and James Trimble. 15 August 1781. Samuel Simpson of Philadelphia, whose brother Benjamin Simpson of Honeyhill in the county of Monaghan in Ireland deceased in his last will and testament of the 26th of October 1771 did devise unto him and his children all his freehold and personal estate, requests pass for his two sons Benjamin and William Simpson to New York within the British lines in order to proceed to Ireland for the recovery of the said estate. [Granted on condition.] 4 February 1780. Thomas Smily of the City of Philadelphia carpenter, who has resided a few years in this City and followed the business of a carpenter but at present that trade is of so little use as not to be sufficient to support him, and wishes to return to Scotland the place of his nativity, requests pass to move into the City of New York where he expects to meet an opportunity to transport himself to his native country. [Rejected.] Walter Drummond of this City innkeeper and Samuel Griscom of the same place carpenter offer themselves as security. Character endorsement by John Miller and John Mease describing Thomas Smail [sic] as a sober, honest, innofencive young man. 23 November 1779, Philadelphia. Mary Small, whose husband is a native of Holland and went about two years ago to his native country leaving her here with three children, the eldest of whom a lad about 17 years old went to sea and was taken and is now a prisoner with the English, has long scuffled for a livelihood for herself and the two children with her but finds it impossible any longer to earn or procure bread, much more house rent, cloathing, fuel and every other necessary of life, and she understands that her husband is now in New York and requests 3 On 17 August, a request for a pass for Susanna Simmons was not granted, she not being recommended by any person known to the Board, but on August 20, being recommended by several Gentlemen of Character, she was granted a pass on giving security not to return (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 12:75, 79). Final copy 28 October, 2008 2008 Applications for Passes, 1776—1790 363 pass for herself and two children. Witnesses John Thompson Major S.B.C. and Am’s [Ambrose] Croker. [Granted.] 30 November 1779. Bond for £1000 by John Pitman wheelwright of Bucks County and John Thompson waterman of the City of Philadelphia that Mary Small, who has received permission to go to New York, will not return without permission. Witness James Trimble. 6 March 1783, Philadelphia. Helena Ritchie, relict of Robert Ritchie late of the City of Philadelphia merchant, whose brother Edward B. Smith, hearing of her distress’d circumstance and to settle some mercantile transactions, has lately arriv’d at New York from Ireland, but by reason of the war he cannot accomplish his benevolent intentions towards her whilst at that distance; that she has long languish’d under a painful illness, which utterly prevents her from traveling, requests pass for him, whom she has not seen for near twenty years. [On jacket: Ordered that leave be given to Edward Brice Smith to come from New York to Philadelphia, that he report himself to Council on his arrival in Philadelphia and return to New York at the expiration of thirty days from the time of such arrival.] Character endorsement by John Mease that he is well acquainted with the circumstances which induc’d Mr. Smith to come to America which were not only to help his distress’d sister Mrs. Ritchie but to recover some debts due him previous to the War and that he has reason to be assured he is friendly to our most glorious, happy revolution. Statement by Nic’s Romayne M.D. that Mrs. Ritchie’s health prevents her from going any distance and that her brother is a friend to the American Revolution. 1 April 1783, Philadelphia. Robert Smith, who has property in New York in the hands of persons who it is probable will leave the City with the garrison, as the happy period is now arriv’d when the Enemy will evacuate New York, requests pass to recover his property. [Granted.] 4 May 1779, Philadelphia. Sarah Smith, whose husband William Smith is now in England, is left with a small child without any means for her support and is desirous to go to her husband, and as she is a native of England and has friends there, is fully resolved to stay and not return again to this county, requests pass for herself and child. Witnesses William Miller printer, Francis Wrigley, Peter Grenion, John Beard, and Wm Sellers junr. [No indication if granted. 4] 6 May 1779, Philadelphia. Agreement to provide [unspecified] security by William Cox and George Shaw. 14 May 1779. Bond for £1500 by William Cox chairmaker and George Shaw joiner both of the City of Philadelphia that Sarah Smith, who has received permission to go to New York, will not return without permission. Witness James Trimble and Tho’s Wilson Jur. 2 April 1783, Philadelphia. Thomas Smith is a native of the City of New York with considerable property in that City. Mr. Edward Leaight one of the executors of his late Father’s estate is notoriously disaffected and will be obliged to leave the Continent with the Enemy. Thomas has been a permanent Friend to his Country having in the beginning of the Revolution acted as a Volunteer with the Armies of the States and suffered a long imprisonment and much cruelty and has resided in this state for most part of the time since he left his native city and requests pass to go within the Enemy’s lines to endeavour to get the writings out of the hands of said Mr. Edward Leaight. [Granted.] Character endorsement by Moses Gomez, Nic’s Romayne, Tho’s Franklin. 9 June 1782, Lebanon. Petition from Philip Marsteller, Esqr., stating that Jacob 4 On 7 May she was granted permission to go, giving bond for £1500 not to return without permission (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 11:770). Final copy 28 October, 2008 364 Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine Vol. 45 Snevely (son of Capt. Caspar Snevely) of Lebanon Town and Adam Rice (a brother-in-law of Marsteller’s) being willing and desirous to travel to Holstons River in the State of Virginia and from thence to return to this state, requests individual passes for them, as they cannot perhaps always be together. [No indication if granted.5] 23 June 1780. Mary Span, finding it exceeding difficult to support herself, child, and young sisters, as having no friend to assist her, has a desire to go to New York, as having received full assurance of her husband being arrived there and having sent for her, requests pass, also for her young sisters, motherless, helpless, and left under her care. [Rejected.] 29 June 1780, Philadelphia. Mary Spangler, being deprived of her husband is now left a widow with three helpless children, requests pass for herself and her three Babes to go to New York where she hath friends who are able and willing to give her assistance, taking her bedding, one chest, and a little box. [No indication if granted.6] 26 August 1778, Philadelphia. Davis Bevan petitioned for Mary Spence wife of James Spence who rented Turners place and had everything in plenty but those ravagers during their stay here took everything, compelled James Spence to go with them, and have left his wife with two small children without means to support them, having sold almost all her furniture to raise as much as would do, her finances being almost exhausted, requests pass for her to go to New York. Beven has known her six years. [No indication if granted.] 26 February 1783, Philadelphia. Lethea Spring of the Northern Liberties of Philadelphia, has some debts owing to her by persons in New York who in all likelihood will soon leave that place, and as she is now in great need of the money, requests pass. [Granted.] Character endorsement by William Rush, James Read, Tho. Britton, Jos. Cowperthwait, James Ash, Peter Knight, Wm. Coats Liet. CP, and Tho. Falhar[?]. 29 November 1779. Margret Stackhouse of the Township of Makefield in the County of Bucks, whose husband Haston Stackhouse late of said County is now residing in New York or within the British lines, from whence she can receive no manner of support for herself and two small children, requests pass to move within the British lines taking two children, one aged about four years by name Ezekiel Robins Stackhouse, the other an infant not yet named, with one bed and furniture for it. [Granted.] Character endorsement by John Connelley and Jon’a Smith. 17 March 1783, Philadelphia. Ezekiel Robins in behalf of his sister Margaret Stackhouse an inhabitant of New York, states that his father is in a very infirm state of health and being desirous of seeing his daughter, she likewise being very anxious at the same time of an interview with her parent, requests pass for her to return to this state. [Granted.] 3 November 1782, Philadelphia. Rachael Stanley, a widow having at present seven children, five of whom she is obliged to support, having lost her husband in the service, her eldest son is now in the Continental Service and has been since 5 Passes for them to go and return were granted 13 June (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 13:302). 6 On July 7 a pass was granted for Mary Spangler, wife of George Spangler, convicted and executed as a Spy, in 1778, to leave this State and proceed to New York with her family of three children, her bedding, one chest, and a small box, she to depart immediately (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 12:412). Final copy 28 October, 2008 2008 Applications for Passes, 1776—1790 365 the beginning of the war, all her support was only what was afforded her by her second son, who unfortunately for her is now a prisoner at New York, requests pass to New York to try and gain his exchange or parole and to return. [No indication if granted.] Character endorsement by Joseph Falconer Senr, Robert Knox. 11 December 1780. Joseph Stansbury, confined in the Old Jail by virtue of the warrant of the board, he is conscious of his innocence, but from an early prejudice entertained against him, which he fears is now too deeply rivetted in the minds of the Public, he despairs of living with any kind of comfort or advantage in this county, requests pass to go into the lines of the British at New York, being unwilling to return to England on account of the heavy debts which he owes there and is unable to discharge. He has a wife and six small children. If granted, it shall be the study of his life to convince the people of this state that his real character has been totally mistaken. 7 [Rejected as to going to New York. 8] 21 December 1780. Joseph Stansbury, nearly ready to avail himself of the indulgence shewn to him by the Board and to set off for New York, nothing remaining now to impede him but settling some accounts, which he finds impracticable for want of his book and papers in the hands of the Council, and requests the return of those not necessary for the Council to retain. [Granted.] 3 July 1783, Moores-town, New Jersey. Sarah Stansbury, with her husband and seven children, has lately left the City of New York and removed to a habitation that they have procured in the State of New Jersey,9 that her husband has been before Governor Livingston and the Council, who under the consideration that an offence should not be given by their returning to a sister state, did resolve that her husband, herself, and family should again remove to New York in twenty days, but as the condition of their first departure from the State of Pennsylvania was only to continue in New York for and during the War, they had reason to hope they might now be readmitted into any of the states. She believes her husband has already returned to New York and the government of New Jersey would permit her and her family, some of whom are too ill to travel, to remain where they are if the Council permits until her husband prepares a place of settlement. [No indication if granted.] 25 July 1782, Philadelphia. Rose Stark of the Northern Liberties of Philadelphia states her husband Theobald Stark some years ago became bound for a certain Andrew Bealer in a considerable sum of money for Mr. Samuel Howell of Philadelphia merchant, which debt has not yet been satisfied and Mr. Howell now calls on her husband for the same. She and her husband are both far advanced in years and unable to support themselves and their family by hard labour, Andrew Bealer is a man in good and easy circumstances but resides in the City of New York. She requests pass to go to New York in order if possible to recover the said 7 Hannah Benner Roach, “Petitions and Passes,” PGM 26(1970):261, reports that he was proclaimed a traitor 15 June 1778, apparently released, but in November found in illicit trade with New York and put in jail. He operated a china store. 8 On 18 December permission was given for Joseph Stansbury, with his family, to go to New York, he giving his promise upon honor to proceed immediately to that city and use his utmost endeavours to have Abijah Wright and Casper Geyer, prisoners on Long Island, released and permitted to return home, and that he will not do any thing injurious to the United States; that his effects will be restored to him and himself liberated as soon as he shall be ready to set out for New York; the agent for confiscated estates was to be directed to deliver up the keys of his property (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 12:573—74). 9 On 18 January 1781, Mrs. Stansbury (wife of Joseph Stansbury) received a pass for herself, six children, and a servant maid, with her cloathing, bedding &ca (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 12:594. Final copy 28 October, 2008 366 Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine Vol. 45 money of the said Andrew Bealer and save themselves from utter ruin. [Granted.] Character endorsement by George Leib, Christ’n Baker, Wm. Wild, mentioning that Theobald Stark had performed his tour in the militia of Philadelphia several times, although exempted by law on account of his age and infirmities. 7 September 1782, Philadelphia. Theobald Stark (German signature: Teobalt Stark) of the Northern Liberties of Philadelphia, whose wife Rose Stark on 27 July last past petitioned to go to New York to recover money due from Andrew Bieler (an inhabitant of that City) to Mr. Samuel Howell merchant of Philadelphia, ever since 1775, for payment with interest Theobald was bound in three bonds. The petition was granted, she went to New York, and returned on Saturday last without effecting anything because she could not produce the bonds. Theobald has entered into new bonds with Howell and took up the old bonds. Rose, when she received her pass at New York to return home, was forbid to enter the British lines again, so he requests pass to go to New York. [No indication if granted.] 20 June 1782, Philadelphia. Dorrothy Stautz (her + mark) of the City of Philadelphia, widow with two small children, whose eldest son John Stautz has faithfully served the United States three years as a soldier in Colonel Proctor’s Regiment and having obtained his discharge sailed out of this port in a merchantmen, was taken and carried into New York where he is detained there four months part on board of the Jersey Prison Ship, requests pass to go to New York to get her son’s liberty. [No indication if granted.] Character endorsement by Jacob Huff, Geo: Reinhart and George Heck. August 1779. Bond for £500 by Hugh Carney of the City of Philadelphia cordwainer that Elizabeth Stewart, who has received permission to go to New York, will not return without permission. Witness James Trimble. 27 November 1778. William Straker came into this state in the month of July last with a determination to act as became a resident towards establishing the liberty of this country, but from information received by way of St. Eustatia within these few days past, finds that his mother is about entering into a second marriage, by which conduct she forfeits the trust reposed by his father in her and entitles the children to an immediate division of the estate, which otherwise was to have remained in her possession until the year eighty, and whereas William must be a very considerable sufferer should he be prevented from going, requests a pass to go to the Island of Barbados in order to receive the proportion of his Father’s estate and to return with property and not have it confiscated. [no date.] Mrs. Straker, wishing to go to the island of St. Eustatia and from thence to the island of Barbados, her husband Mr. William Straker having already set out on his voyage there, it is highly probable the vessel in which they shall pass may fall within the fleet of Count D. Etaing, requests certificate of their permission. [No indication if granted. 10] 7 May 1783, Philadelphia. Margaret Strickland, whose son John Strickland left Philadelphia with the Army of his Brittanic Majesty in the year 1778 and has since followed his trade in New York, never having done any thing inimical to these states, requests permission for him to return to Philadelphia for three weeks or longer. [No indication if granted.] 13 July 1779. Bond for £500 by William Von Phul of the City of Philadelphia distiller and Andrew Burkhart of the City of Philadelphia cordwainer that Rachel Stuebert, who has received permission to go to New York with her two daughters, Jacobina and Elizabeth Stueburt, will not return without permission. Wit10 On 4 February 1779 Mrs. Straker, wife of Mr. William Straker, was granted a pass for herself and husband to St. Eustatia, and thence to the Island of Barbados (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 11:684). Final copy 28 October, 2008 2008 Applications for Passes, 1776—1790 367 nesses James Trimble and Wm. Matlack. 5 June 1784. Jacob Sulger of the City of Philadelphia baker, a freeholder in the city, having lately received a letter from his father who lives in Germany who desires Jacob to come visit him, is desirous to go and ready to embark, and requests pass. [Granted.] Character endorsement by Peter Miller. 29 April 1780. Character endorsement by H’n Stout for Elizabeth Sutherland, who has applied for a pass to go to her friends in New York. [Rejected.] 8 June 1780. John Swanwick, who has seen a resolution of the Board for the removal out of the state of the wives and children of persons who have joined the Enemy,11 and who is unfortunate in being the son12 of a person within this description but cannot conceive it to affect him as he took the oaths of allegiance to the state in the year 1777 and has always remained a faithful and dutyfull subject and being no way dependent on his father cannot in reason or justice suffer for his crimes. His mother falling within the persons described and having a protection from the board in 1777 has never since done anything to forfeit it and desirous to live under and obey the laws of the state, and willing to give security that she will in no wise correspond with her husband unless with the approbation of the Board, he requests the board to consider this case. [Rejected so far as it respects his mother.] 9 June 1780, Philadelphia. Statement by John Swanwick: Very often it happens amid the bustle of human affairs that the cries of the distressed reach not the ears of those who could relieve them or pierce through the veil that often too often is drawn between greatness and misfortune . . . his father very unfortunately before John came into this country had accepted an office under the King, an office of the most odious nature, and as he was an Englishman but a few years in this country, he thought it his duty to join the Enemy. . . . John had just planned to remove his mother into town to live with him when the resolution was passed. She cannot go to his father, who has censured her staying so long and preferring to live under and obey the laws of the State . . . [five pages in all]. [No indication if read to Council.] 10 June 1780. Statement by John Swanwick that his mother, preferring all kind of hardships to joining the enemies of this country retired to a house near Wilmington in the Delaware State, requests her case be reconsidered, mentioning the recommendation of her old virtuous and good neighbors in the County of Chester and the quiet on her farm in the country. [Rejected.] 6 November 1781. John Swanwick on behalf of his mother Mary Swanwick for a pass to Elizabeth Town in hopes of being indulged there with a sight of her husband and for Mary Conner who also hopes to see her husband. [Granted.] [no date, but mentioning that the campaign is nearly closed]. Statement by John Swanwick, mentioning his mother is in Wilmington and asking that she be allowed to return to her usual habitation. [No indication if granted.] 11 On 6 June 1780 the Council passed the following: Whereas, the residence of the wives and children of those persons who had joined the enemy, has at all times proved inconvenient to the publick interest, in consequence of the correspondence and intercourse which has been constantly preserved, and as it is now become too dangerous to be longer permitted or connived at: Resolved, that publick notice be given to such persons, that they depart this State with ten days, and any of them remaining after that time will not be deemed as entitled to any protection, but liable to be proceeded against as enemies of the State (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 12:377). 12 His parents were Richard and Mary (Bickford) Swanwick (Roland M. Baumann, “John Swanwick: Spokesman for ‘Merchant Republicanism’ in Philadelphia,” Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography 97[1973]:131—82). Final copy 28 October, 2008 368 Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine Vol. 45 18 October 1779. Character endorsement by John Galloway, John Ewing, Robert Porter, and John Smilie for Mr. James Taggart, who has considerable estate in Jamaica which he was obliged to visit some time before the Declaration of Independence, leaving his family in West Nottingham where he was born, whom he has not seen, nor has he had an opportunity of taking an active part in favour of his native country. They request a pass for him to see his family or for them to go to him. [Pass from New York granted.] 19 February 1779, Philadelphia. James Talbot of the City of Philadelphia, whose mother and sister together with his father left Philadelphia last spring to go to Ireland, but in New York his father died, requests pass for Mary and Jane Talbot, his mother and sister, together with their cloathing. [Referred.] 16 October 1779. Ann Taylor, whose husband has been away from her for four years and left in her care a helpless child, requests pass for them to go to her husband who has lately arrived at New York. [No indication if granted. 13] Character endorsement by Rickoff Alberfoss, George Price, William Parham, Christ. Bitt (his mark). 22 October 1779. Bond for £500 by Joseph Huddell of the district of Southwark lumber merchant that Anne Taylor, who has received permission to go to New York, will not return without permission. Witness James Trimble. 1 May 1779, Philadelphia. P. Taylor14 requests pass for himself and his wife to go to New York and return in order to go to England from whence he came, for his father is dead and his mother is very old and in great distress. He has served Mr Lewston Esqr and Mr Robert Morris Esqr. [No indication if granted.] 11 May 1779. Bond for £500 by Thomas Harrison taylor and Philip Taylor groom, both of the City of Philadelphia that Philip Taylor, who has received permission to go to New York, will not return without permission. Witness James Trimble. 20 January 1778, West Caln, Chester County. John Telles, who by the continuation of this war has been prevented from going to his native country–Portugal– and is still doubtfull of having a safe opportunity, requests the pass and privileges of a foreign merchant, agreeable to the Law of the Land, as well as the Laws of Nations. [No indication if granted.] 13 March 1783. John Thomas of the City of Philadelphia, whose father resides in the City of New York and intends shortly to remove from there, requests pass to see him and return after a few days. [Granted.] 12 March 1783. Character endorsement by Peter Thompson, Peter Browne, Peter Haight, Ed Bartholomew, Jos: Redman, P. Lockyes, Thos. Britton, Jos. Harrison, Presley Blakiston. 28 February 1782, Philadelphia. Elizabeth Sawer, aged mother of Luke Thomas who went to New York in 1778 to receive a sum of money from one Capt’n Club, but being disappointed (he went without liberty) was fearfull to return, requests pass for him to return. [Granted with security.] 20 March 1783. William Thomas of the Northern Liberties of the City of Philadelphia carter, being in the country with our army while the British had possession of Philadelphia, had a cart, timber, wheels, and horses with other property taken by the Enemy, for which his wife who remained in Philadelphia obtained a 13 The pass was granted, she giving security not to return (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 12:133). 14 The jacket mistakenly calls him Peter Taylor, his signature is P. Taylor, and the corresponding bond, signed P. Taylor, is for Philip Taylor. Final copy 28 October, 2008 2008 Applications for Passes, 1776—1790 369 receipt and order for fifty pounds. He understands the money can now be obtained, and as she passed for a widow when she received the said order, requests pass for his wife, Rebecca Thomas, to go to New York and receive the money. [Granted.] Character endorsement by Benjamin G. Eyre, Jos. Cowperthwaite, Paine Newman, John Rice, Francis Grice, Wm. Coats. 25 October 1782, Philadelphia. Catherine Thompson (signature Catherin Thomapson), wife of John Thompson late Lieutenant of the privateer brig Schoolkil, Luke Mathewman Commander, taken off the Island of Cuba, who is now in confinement in the provost New York requests pass to go to New York to procure his parole or exchange. Character endorsement by Jaco: Bankson stating that John Thompson is now a prisoner in the Provost of New York. [Granted.] 1 April 1783, Philadelphia. James Thompson, late Wn: Mr: Ge: to the Army of the United States, in behalf of himself and three children of Captain Thomas Falconer deceased, is married to the widow of Falconer, who held a proprietary share and one for his son in a large grant of land in Hallifax government and laid out large sums of money for the surveying and erecting grist and saw mills thereon for the general good of the settlement. As the British Government is now granting to their Loyalists the said lands to the injury of Thompson and his family, by the advice of Council and Wm. Parr Esqr (the other acting executor), tis thought necessary to memorial Sir Guy Carleton in behalf of said children who are not yet of age and by this claim to prevent their being exchate [escheated] or settled on by said Loyalists, requests pass to go to New York for the above purpose and to recover for himself if possible three Negro lads who were decoyed from him by the British, two of them whilst in the service. [Granted.] 26 June 1779. Bond for £500 by John Armstrong and Thomas Urie Esquires that Lucy Thompson, who has received permission to go to New York, will not return without permission. Witness James Trimble. 23 July 1782, Philadelphia. Margaret Thompson, dwelling in the city of Philadelphia, requests pass to go to New York through New Jersey to procure the enlargement and alleviate distress of James Knight gunner of the privateer brigantine Fair American lately of the port of Philadelphia, who since her capture has been kept a close prisoner. [No indication if granted.] Character endorsement by John M. Carlney, Capt’n, that Margaret Thompson is a good Whig. 4 November 1782. Mary Thompson, whose husband at the beginning of the war was pressed into the Phoenix man of war belonging to the British where he was kept three years, then followed the wood service but last April, that business growing slack, he was forced to go to privateering to support his small family, then he was taken into this port, his wife came to get him released which she got granted. She has three small children with her and was laying in child bed when he was sent to York on his exchange. He intended returning if possible if he could make his escape, but she has had an account of his being pressed and requests a pass for herself and family. [Granted.] 14 August 1779, Philadelphia. Mary Thornbrough,15 having lived for many years with the Rev’d Mr. Barton of Lancaster, was prevailed on when he with Mrs. Barton left this state to undertake the care of the remaining part of his family consisting of five children until he should send for them to England or otherwise dispose of them, a situation that has become insupportably difficult, and not 15 The jacket says Mary Thornberry, but the signature is clearly Thornbrough. Final copy 28 October, 2008 370 Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine Vol. 45 being able to obtain any assistance or direction by letter from Mr. Barton, who is still at New York, requests pass to New York or Elizabeth Town to procure an interview with him. [No indication if granted.] 25 January 1783. Ann Tibbitt,16 whose husband sail’d from Philadelphia on board the schooner Polly and Elsay bound for Dominica, Capt’n McConnell commander, and after being unavoidably detain’d in the River for a considerable time, they proceeded on their voyage, but just at the entrance of the Capes they met with a British frigate which captured the vessel and carried the unfortunate people who mann’d her to New York where doubtless they are suffering every hardship incident of such a situation, requests pass to go to New York to help her husband. [Granted.] 24 January 1783. Character endorsement by James Montgomery, George Duffield, and W. Shippen Jr. 27 March 1783, Philadelphia. Stephen Tinker of the State of Connecticut, who has lately arrived from the State of North Carolina on his way home with business that makes is necessary for him as soon as possible to go to New York before he returns home, requests pass. [Granted.] 15 September 1778. John Tittermary, who is well known to be a steady friend to the Cause of Liberty, had a valuable quantity of cordage seized by the British when they were in possession of Philadelphia, requests pass to New York to secure payment. [Granted.] 21 February 1782. Martha Todd, widow living at Coryelis Ferry in Solebury Township in the County of Bucks, whose husband many years before the present War commenced and long before his decease made certain pacts and agreements with Mr. Charles McEvers, merchant in New York for certain mills, a dwelling house, and a small tract of land which she together with her children now occupy, and being apprehensive the current state of affairs may occasion his sudden departure, requests pass to and from New York to settle the matter of the property. [Granted.] 25 January 1782. Character endorsement by George Wall Junr, James Teller, Nat’l Ellicott, John Chapman, and W. McCalla. 23 December 1778. Catharine Tolley of the District of Southwark, wife of John Tolley, who was one of the persons named in one of the proclamations and who leaving this City sometime before the enemy left it took off a considerable property with design to trade therewith and is now in the City of New York, after the time limit in the proclamation the residue of his property was seized and sold, which she can with great truth say were the hard earnings of her own honest industry, requests pass to go to New York to get her share and return. [No indication if granted.17] 15 June 1779. Bond for £500 by Thomas Hale Esquire and Matthew Hand Innkeeper both of the City of Philadelphia that Catherine Tolly, who has received permission to go to New York, will not return without permission. Witness James Trimble. 30 April 1783, Philadelphia. Robert Tomkins of the Northern Liberties of the City of Philadelphia, from whom some short time before the Brittish troops evacuated Philadelphia they took three valuable horses without making him any 16 The jacket mistakenly says Catherine Tibbitt; petition says Ann Tibbet, signature is Ann Tibbitt. 17 Her petition was apparently not read on this date. On 11 June 1779 a pass to New York was granted with £500 bond not to return (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 12:21). Final copy 28 October, 2008 2008 Applications for Passes, 1776—1790 371 compensation, as they are evacuating, requests pass to New York. [Granted.] 11 June 1779, Philadelphia. Margaret Tonry,18 who has for some time been earnestly desirous of returning to Ireland, her native Country, requests pass to New York for that purpose, not to return. [Granted, with security.] 16 June 1779. Bond for £500 by Williamson Tolbert and Alexander Boyle of the City of Philadelphia innkeepers that Margaret Tonry, who has received permission to go to New York, will not return without permission. Witnesses James Trimble and Will’m Matlack. 27 April 1780, Philadelphia. Anne Toomey, wife of Daniel Toomey who is now in New York, has a young child and is not able to support them, requests pass to New York. [Rejected.] Character endorsement by John Pringle and Rob’t Budges. 18 September 1782, Philadelphia. Character endorsement by Chris’n Marshall Junr, Charles Marshall, and Robert Knox that Ann Toy, widow of Nicholas Toy late of Southwark, understanding that her son is a prisoner in New York, requests pass to go there in hopes of procuring his liberty. [Granted.] 2 May 1780, Philadelphia. Matthew Tracey (signature Mathew Tracy) of the City of Philadelphia butcher, who has been long out of employ and destitute of the means of getting a livelihood for himself, wife, and four small children, having suffered much for the six months past, requests pass for himself and family to New York to get a passage to Ireland, of which he is a native, where he expects to get assistance to maintain and educate his children. [Rejected.] Character endorsement by George Evans and William Pinchon. 1 August 1782. Rebecca Trested (her mark), whose husband sailed from the port of Philadelphia in the ship Mar[quis] La Fayette commanded by Capt. Vallance, bound to Hispaniola and from thence to France and whose misfortune it was to be captured by a Bermudian privateer and carried into that island where he has ever since been, not having heard anything from him for some time past, requests pass to the aforesaid island. [Granted.] Character endorsement by James B. Smith, James Boyer, John Dunlap, William Marshall, and George Duffield. 27 December 1781. Sarah Tricketts of the City of Philadelphia, who not many years since together with her husband William Tricketts late deceased came over from England and resided in Philadelphia, having received a letter from her only sister in England with a pressing invitation to return as she and an aged father still living desire to see her, and having a certain annuity during life, requests pass to New York to take passage for England. [No indication if granted.19] 17 March 1781. Mary Turner, whose husband is in New York and having no way of supporting herself and family here, requests pass for herself, child, infant, and its nurse. [Granted, but not to return.] 2 May 1780, Philadelphia. Amos Wilkinson, having been late a prisoner with the Enemy at New York with a number of other liege subjects of the United States, experienced the greatest humanity and relief from Mrs. Mary Turner, widow of the late John Turner a proscribed person, lately kill’d at York town, Virginia, the said Mrs Turner being a native of this City requests she may be permitted to 18 Jacket says Tonery, but her signature and bond say Tonry. 19 On December 28 the pass was granted, not to return (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 13:161). Final copy 28 October, 2008 372 Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine Vol. 45 return to the City of Philadelphia to take a leave of her friends and connexions previous to her departure for Europe, for which place she intends to sail the first opportunity after her return to New York. [Rejected.] 9 July 1782, Philadelphia. Catharine Urquhart, who left Philadelphia about eighteen months before with her husband Aneas Urquhart, who was ordered away by the Board for the West Indies, afterwards died, and she returned to Philadelphia by way of New York. She wants to remain in Philadelphia, but left a son with her cloaths at New York and requests pass to go there to get them out. [Rejected.] 16 July 1783. John Mease of the City of Philadelphia merchant has had and continues to have transactions of consequence in the mercantile way with Mr. Anthony Van Dam, a reputable merchant of the City of New York. He labours under considerable inconvenience for want of settlement of the accounts which cannot be effectually accomplished without Van Dam being in Philadelphia and requests pass. [No indication if granted.] 20 March 1783, Philadelphia. John Vanderen has a considerable sum of money owing to him in New York and requests pass to go to try and recover his debts. [Granted.] Character endorsement by Clement Biddle, Jos Carson, Isaac Howell, John Pringle, John Ramsey, Rob’t Bridges, Rich Backe, D. Lenox, Geo: Hughes, Matthew Jones, W’m Pollard, John Taylor, And’w Caldwell, and James Caldwell. 25 March 1783, Philadelphia. Christian Von Phul at present of the City of Philadelphia, formerly an inhabitant of the City of New York where he was possessed of property in considerable amount, took an early and active part in the present contest in defense of the country and marched into the field with the militia of that city, commanded by Colonel – Lashert a few days previous to the Enemy’s taking possession thereof and thereby abandoned all his property to the mercy of the Enemy. After discharge from the Militia of New York, he came to Philadelphia to his relatives where he has remained and took the oath of allegiance to this state 2 August 1777. He requests pass to New York to look after his property. [Granted.] Character endorsement by W’m Will, L’t Col’l 3d Reg’t Philadelphia Militia. 1 May 1779, Philadelphia. Henry Van Vleck late of the city of New York merchant now of Bethlehem in the County of Northampton in this State, who five years ago for his wife’s health sake retired from New York and left his chief concerns there to the management of his eldest son and partner in trade Abraham H. Van Vleck who is since deceased, by which his mercantile and other private affairs are become greatly perplexed, and he left a Negroe man with his wife to take care of his dwelling house and effects in the same which by the late fire have been consumed and he wishes to reclaim these Negroes and if possible take them home, requests pass to New York to settle his affairs and to return with said Negroes. [No indication if granted. 20] 1 April 1783. Isaac Van Vleck, who was formerly an inhabitant of New York and left the city at the time the enemy took possession thereof and has a considerable part of his property in the hands of persons who will in all probability leave the City with the garrison, requests pass to endeavor to recover his property there. [Granted.] 20 The pass was granted the same day (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 11:765). Final copy 28 October, 2008 2008 Applications for Passes, 1776—1790 373 3 January 1779 [sic, jacket indicates it was read to the Council 3 February 1780], Philadelphia. Elizabeth Voght of Lancaster, whose husband Christian Voght late of the Borough of Lancaster abandoned his place of abode and her and joined the British Army in the City of Philadelphia during the invasion of this state and retired with the said Army to the City of New York where he still remains, in consequence of which he stands attainted of High Treason, and all his estate real and personal has been seized, confiscated, and sold, whereby she is reduced to great poverty and distress, requests pass to go to him in New York, which he has requested. [Granted.] 26 October 1778, Philadelphia. Elizabeth Wade (her mark), wife of Captain John Wade late of the City of Philadelphia, at present in London in the Kingdom of Great Britain, has received a letter from her husband informing her that he sent to her by one certain Captain Harthorn the following goods to wit: peices of linnen at 1/6 pr yard and the patron [pattern] of three gownds and a hatt and cloak for his daughter Elizabeth and locket and wyers for her ears, which she believes are now in the possession of Captain Harthorn in the City of New York, requests pass to go recover her goods. [No indication if granted.] 30 July 1781.21 Bond for £200 by George Evans of the City of Philadelphia, Innkeeper that Elizabeth Wade, who has received permission to go to New York, will not return without permission. Witnesses James Trimble and John Cook (his mark). 11 December 1780. Ferrall Wade, having met with a number of disappointments in trade during his stay in this place, owing to the depreciation of the money &c, so as to oblige him to go among his friends in Europe for the purpose of collecting monies due to him, requests pass to New York to get passage and not return during the Present War. [Rejected.] Character endorsement by his brother Franc’s Wade, mentioning Ferrall will have an opportunity to see his brothers, sisters, and friends in Ireland. 7 May 1783, Philadelphia. Franc’s Wade, having had an account of the death of his sister Mrs. Devine in London by way of New York wishes to send his son James there, and requests pass for James to sett off tomorrow morning by the stage. [Granted.] 9 February 1780, Philadelphia. Joseph Walker of Philadelphia has heard that his father, who is an aged man, is in great distress at the City of New York, now in possession of the King of England’s troops, and as his only son, who was brought up and educated by him in the most affectionate manner, requests pass to visit New York and bring his dear father out of that place of confusion. [Dismissed.] 10 July 1782. Ann Wall of the City of Philadelphia, with whom Pearce Morran, mariner lodged. He was taken by the British in the ship Philadelphia Capt. Lawler and is now a prisoner in New York and having no friends or relatives, requests pass to New York [jacket says Dobbs Ferry and to return] to procure his exchange. [No indication if granted. 22] Witnesses by M. Lawler and Rob’t McClenachan. 26 March 1783, Philadelphia. Samuel Wallis of the City of Philadelphia, who has debts due to him to a considerable amount in the City of New York, from those 21 Because of the dates, it is not certain that these documents apply to the same woman. The only entry in the minutes is for 28 July 1781 for Elizabeth Wade and daughter to be granted a pass, giving security not to return (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 13:17). 22 The pass was granted to Dobbs Ferry, but not to return (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 13:330). Final copy 28 October, 2008 374 Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine Vol. 45 who, he believes, will very shortly leave the continent, requests pass to New York and to return. [Granted.] Character endorsement by Isaac Howell, Plun’t [Plunket] Fleeson, and Reuben Haines. These may certify that the bearer hereof Mr. James Walsh armourer hath been employed in the Public Armoury at this place for some time past and in every respect hath acted as a good and faithfull subject to the United States of America. Hearing the enemy have left Philadelphia and having business there and in the neighbourhood thereof. It is requested he be permitted to pass to said city unmolested and back again to this place. Given at Carlisle the 24th day of June 1778. Cha’s Lukens, Com’r Mil’y Stores. 9 February 1780. James Walsh of Philadelphia, having lately receiv’d an acc’t of the death of his father, requests pass for himself and family to go to New York where he expects a speedy opportunity of going to Ireland, there to inherit what his deceac’d father has bequeathed him. [Rejected.] Character endorsement by James Pearson, Com’s M’y stores, and James Carter, stating James Walsh was employed in various departments as a gunsmith from the commencement of the War until this time. 7 June 1782. Sarah Walsh, whose husband was captured in the brig Navarra Captain Keiler and carried to New York and put on board the prison ship, but in attempting to make his escape he was taken and is now in irons in the Provost, requests pass to Elizabethtown so that she may endeavour to make interest if possible to have her husband releas’d from his confinement. [No indication if granted.23] Character endorsement by Robert Knox, Geo. Duffield and W’m Shute. 28 March 1783, Philadelphia. Bernard Ward Lieuten’t in Colonel Attlee’s late Regiment was a prisoner over three years with the enemy during which time he married on Long Island and as his wife has considerable property there both real and personal, requests pass to go into New York to secure the said property. [Granted.] 15 June 1782. Catharine Ware of the Southern District of Philadelphia, whose husband was taken by the enemy in the schooner Buckskin Captain Wicks and carried into New York where he remains a prisoner on board the prison ship in a distress’d situation, requests pass to endeavour to obtain her husband’s liberty. [No indication if granted. 24] Character endorsement by Allen Moore and Sam’l Church. 29 March 1783, Philadelphia. Isaac Warner requests pass for his son William Warner to go to New York to get two Negro men that went away with the Brittish when they left this City. [Granted.] 18 September 1782, Philadelphia. Conrad Weckerly of the City of Philadelphia requests pass to go to Boston in New England. [Granted.] Character endorsement by George Esterly Capt, Conrad Haass, Peter Ozeas Left’n, and Lawrence Herbert. 23 She received a pass to go to Dobbs Ferry and return (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 13:300). 24 She received a pass to go to Dobbs Ferry and return (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 13:304). Final copy 28 October, 2008 2008 Applications for Passes, 1776—1790 375 24 April 1783, Philadelphia. George Weiss requests pass to go into New York to call on Mess’rs Carter and Wadsworth to come to this City as witnesses in a cause of great importance fixed for trial on Saturday next. [Granted.] 31 July 1782. Christian Wenger25 (German signature) of Brother Valley in the County of Cumberland, originally a subject of the King of France in whose territories his father John Wenger now lives vizt at Blumbergeswald in Alsas, and last winter received a letter from his father, who called him home. He is now going to France by way of Boston and requests pass. [Granted.] 6 July 1782, Brothers Valey Township Bedford County. Whereas the bearer hereof Christian Winger is called upon, by a letter from his father living in Garminy [Germany] and the said Christian Winger is now willing to travel from america to garminy afther his lawfull bisness, these are therefore to cartify that the said Christian Winger has alweis conducted himsalve as an honest and true subjact to the libertis of America and that he may be permited to pase and repase in any of our united States of America, he beheving him salve as a true subject ought to do, given under my hand and seal as one of the Justices of the Peace and Commen Please for said county. Abraham Cable, Esq’r. [Granted.] 23 April 1779, Philadelphia. John White, one of the escorts to the Hon[ora]ble Board of War, in behalf of his wife Catharine White, having two sons in the City of New York, one of which by the Enemy’s sudden taking possession thereof was prevented getting out, and the other (fighting in the cause of his country) was taken prisoner and has been detain’d near two years in the City, she being desirous of seeing her captive children, requests pass. [No indication if granted.] 15 October 1782, Philadelphia. Sarah White, whose husband William White of Philadelphia pilot was lately taken in a brig Capt. Savage and carried prisoner to New York and is now exceeding ill in the hospital ship, and he is the only prop and support of his wife and children who are now in great distress, requests pass to effect his exchange or liberty to come home on parole. [No indication if granted.26] Character endorsement by William Rush and Rob’t Bethell. 10 December 1778, Philadelphia. Sarah Whitebread, who had the very great trouble and misfortune of having her young son carried away (by the people of the Brittish Sixteenth Light Dragoons) on the morning of the day on which the enemy evacuated this City, he is a boy of about eleven years old, and was either forced away, or inticed through promises and carried to New York, requests pass to recover her son. [No indication if granted.] 1 March 1782, Philadelphia. Sarah Whitebread of the City of Philadelphia, who in the fall of the 1778 requested a pass to New York in quest of her son, then about ten years old, who had been inveigled and carried off by some of the Brittish Army, which was granted, and on her going there she had the mortification to find he had sailed for England three days before she arrived there, so she was obliged to return without him, and through the kind assistance of her friend has procured the return of her son from England to New York, and requests pass. [No indication if granted. 27] 25 Signature gives surname as Wenger. 26 Jacket gives date of 17 January 1783; on 19 January Sarah received pass to go to Dobbs Ferry and return (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 13:482). 27 Both passes were granted (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 11:644; 13:208). Final copy 28 October, 2008 376 Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine Vol. 45 11 March 1783, Philadelphia. Anne Whitelock of the City of Philadelphia, whose brother William Whitelock was taken a prisoner at sea and carried to New York, requests pass to go for his relief. [Granted.] Character endorsement by W’m Henry, Ephraim Bonham, and Robert Knox. 11 May 1780, Philadelphia. On the 24th of last month, John Whittingham submitted a petition for a pass for himself and his wife Mary to New York to get a passage home to England, their native country, but was told that no passes would be issued until after the 10th of this month. He came back and the doorkeeper told him they were sitting in the next room, so he asked if he would pass the petition in, the doorkeeper told him he must first advance him ten dollars and five shillings, which he did. Whittingham met with one of the Members, who asked him questions and told him to attend at the Secretary’s office at four oclock, which he did and Mr. Matlock told him it was rejected. He asks them to reconsider, saying he is by trade a bookbinder and a very poor man, having no property in this country, and the bookbinding business is so dead in this City that he cannot get a days work throughout the trade since the 6th day of last March and has sold the best of his wearing apparel and some of his furniture; he is in the 49th year of his age, infirm, obliged to wear a truss because of a rupture, and has rheumatism and gravel, and therefore wants to get home to England in hopes his father is still living and is in the 77th year of his age. [Rejected.] 22 April 1780. Character endorsement by Allen McLane, W’m Trickett, Samuel Taylor, John Strence[?], Richard Barrett, and Richard Skeltorn. 26 September 1780, Philadelphia. Mary Wittingham, whose husband John Wittingham is in the City of New York and has written for her to come to him, requests pass. [No indication if granted.] 23 January 1783, Philadelphia. William Wikoff and Lardner Clark of the City of Philadelphia, merchants, have purchased a quantity of goods and propose to transport them into the Illeanois Country. They have certificates of the legal importation of every invoice and package that was not manufactured in America and have taken every measure required by the laws to secure the goods from any seizure between this and Fort Pitt, but conceive that there is a risk in meeting with some difficulty on the road from evil disposed persons and request pass for themselves and their goods. [No indication if granted. 28] 14 February 1783, Philadelphia. W’m Wikoff and Lardner Clark, having another large quantity of goods, wares and merchandize belonging to themselves and fellow citizens, which they want to convey to Pittsburgh by land, and from thence by water into the Illinois Country, and as there have been instances of waggons and the goods with which they were loaded having been stopped and detained on the road, request pass. [Granted.] 18 June 1782, New York. Sarah Williams, who wants to have her daughter Nancy with her, as does her son, requests pass for her to New York and to return. [No indication if granted.] 21 December 1778. Sarah Williamson, who has a son and a brother by the names of William Williamson and William Britton, now prisoners with the British Army or Navy in New York, who were taken on board a vessel outward bound from this port, after leaving the Capes two days, has learned by letter of the 7th instant December, they were in a distressed condition with a raging fever on board the prison ship, but thro’ the intercession of Mr. Yorke were permitted to come on shore, where they were taken care of, and a Doctor to attend them, by means whereof the fever was abated, and as soon as they grew better, they were 28 The pass was granted to Fort Pitt and from thence down the river Ohio (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 13:486). Final copy 28 October, 2008 2008 Applications for Passes, 1776—1790 377 to return to the prison ship, a dreadful situation indeed! She requests pass to go to New York and carry them some necessaries to relieve them in their distressed situation, where she, with God’s assistance, may be a means of saving their lives. [No indication if granted. 29] 14 January 1783. Ann Wilson, whose husband was taken by the enemies of the United States in Capt. Hardins brig’t Constant and is now a prisoner in New York, her husband has been prisoner off and on these two years, and hath not made one safe voyage in said term, requests pass to Elizabeth Town to procure her husband’s liberty. [Granted.] Character endorsement by Thomas Ustick, Tho’s Shields, Sam’l Penrose, and Sam’l Meredith. 2 April 1782, Philadelphia. James Wilson, Capt., and Marcus Young, Lieut., retiring officers of the Pennsylvania Line, request passes for eight months to go to port Lorient in France, as their continuance in the Army since the year seventy five has reduced them greatly. [Granted.] 1 December 1778. Joseph Wilson, who left Ireland in the year 1774 with intention to settle in America, but finding his business would not answer, and having a desire to return home, was induced to make a voyage to sea which he acomplish’d and was in the year 1777 by way of Chesapaick on a second voyage taken in said bay by some boats belonging to the Richmond Frigate and sent to the Army then at the head of Elk and from thence by said Army brought here. While in Philadelphia, he took his passage in the sloop Chance bound for Ireland and was taken in Deleware bay by some arm’d boats belonging to the State of New Jersey and strip’d of what little property the British had left him. Requests pass to New York to get a passage to go home to his wife and family where all his property lies. [No indication if granted.] 12 December 1780, Philadelphia. Martha Wilson, wife of George Wilson of the District of Southwark who went out from here a private on board the privateer sloop Comet [blank] Brown Esq’r, commander, that said vessel was taken and carried to New York, and he is on board the Jersey prison ship, where he is in a perishing condition for want of cloathing and necessarys, requests pass to go to New York with cloaths &c to her husband. [Granted.] 20 April 1782. Samuel Morris and Reubin Haines of the City of Philadelphia, in behalf of Casper Wistar of Long Island in the State of New York. By the death of Richard Wistar, brother of Casper, his affairs require his presence in this state, that he is a friend to Liberty and the Independence of these States, request pass for him. [Granted.] Petition of Samuel Morris and Reubin Haines in behalf of their brother in law Caspar Wistar of Long Island. That Caspar, having permission a few months past to come into this state to settle his affairs, did while here direct your petitioners to purchase an estate for him, which they have done in Chester County, request pass for him to remove into this state and remain here as a citizen thereof. [No indication if granted.] 10 February 1783. Josiah Wood of the Township of Norriton in the County of Philadelphia blacksmith, having suffered divers losses and great damages by the British Army on their rout from the head of Elk to the City of Philadelphia, his plantation being within the lines at the time of their encampment in the Township of Norriton, whereby his corn, cattle, and hay became foraged to the amount of several hundred pounds and he became otherwise exceedingly 29 Sarah Williamson, wife of Jesse Williamson, received a pass on 22 December to go and return (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 11:649). Final copy 28 October, 2008 378 Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine Vol. 45 distressed and reduced in circumstance, that he has a large and expencive family to maintain, high taxes to pay, and is himself a very weakly person subject to divers infirmitys, requests pass to New York to solicit the army for some restitution. [Rejected.] 13 February 1783, Norriton. Character endorsement by John Chicom, Cephus Bartleson, John McCaman, William Dewees, Nathan Potts, Joseph Crawford, Andrew Crawford, Rob’t McDowell, Rob’t Sherman, Caleb Richards, And’w Ziegler, and John McDowell. 19 August 1779, Philadelphia. Andrew Wright, shopkeeper of the City of Philadelphia, who for many years past has been an inhabitant and behaved himself, but having a small family finds himself unable to provide a competent support for them and as by the decease of his Father there is a portion of estate descended to him in Scotlan, requests pass for himself and his family to New York to take passage to Scotland. [Granted, on condition.] Character endorsement, saying they had known him for a number of years, by Robert Knox, Geo: Duffield, Robert Allison, William Marshall, and Da: Telfair. 27 August 1779. Bond for £500 by George Duffield of the City of Philadelphia that Andrew Wright, who has received permission to go to New York, will not return without permission. Witnesses John Hambright and James Trimble. 24 January 1783, Philadelphia. Henry Wynkoop of the City of Philadelphia merchant, quoting Rivingtons Royal Gazette, that on the 11th instant was brought into the Harbour of New York the Ship Plus ultra prize to ye Charming Polly consigned from Mess’rs Van Eupen of Antwerp and others to Wynkoop, but he has received no letter of advice concerning this particular cargo, supposing they were on board of some vessels that have been captured by the Enemy, but from letters from friends who are subjects of His Majesty the King of Denmark, he has great reason to believe that the ship and cargo is Danish property and that she is run into the port of Antwerpen to strengthen her protection and safety by an Imperial Flag. Wishing to save his friends’ property, requests pass to New York. [No indication if granted. 30] 24 January 1783. Character endorsement by M. Hillegas, Jacob Morgan jr., and Sam’l Atlee. 11 April 1783, Philadelphia. Henry Wynkoop of the City of Philadelphia merchant, having some time ago obtain’d leave to go to New York respecting a certain ship of Antwerp, has purchased her for the original owners with an intent to send her home as a flag, with the captain and crew, but since these happy tidings of a blessed peace, wants to send her back with a cargo of American produce, for which purpose he wishes to go to New York again and requests pass. [Granted.] 18 October 1778. Philadelphia. Deposition: Personally appeared before Jno Ord, one of the Justices of Philadelphia, Sarah Yard of full age, who on 12 July last applied to go to New York on account of her son residing there who she thought might be sent to England and because she was advised by the physicians to ride and take the benefit of the sea air for her health, and offered to purchase for Joseph Reed (of the Council) in New York any necessaries for himself or family, and that he gave her forty half Johannes’s, but only to spend after the enemy left the city. She went and stayed until 13th Inst’t, then being fully satisfied in her own judgment that the British Troops did not intend to evacuate New York this fall, she left and went to Elizabeth Town where she was stopped and her trunks detained. While in New York, having evidence that cloathing and other necessaries were frequently procured from the City for the use of Officers of the American Army, she decided there would be no impropriety in laying out the money 30 He received a pass to go to Dobbs Ferry and return (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 13:486). Final copy 28 October, 2008 2008 Applications for Passes, 1776—1790 379 received from Reed, and that he did not know of that until she arrived in Elizabeth Town and told him by letter. While she was in New York a British Merchant made a proposition to her to bring out to Reed a proposal to supply a quantity of English goods on certain terms, and she believes the proposal is in one of the trunks, and told Reed of it when she arrived in Philadelphia, and he immediately declared it his Duty to communicate the same to Congress. Letter from Mrs. Sarah Yard stating that the small stock of health she had is almost exhausted and requests pass to New York with two trunks and one servant.31 19 December 1781, Philadelphia. John Stille in behalf of Edward Yorke son of the late Capt’n Edward Yorke, deceased, saying that a near relation of the child, a lad about twelve years of age, has written to his parents [sic] and promised to educate him as his own son, his mother being out of town, indisposed, and unable to address the Council, he asks pass for Edward Yorke to the City of New York. [No indication if granted. 32] 5 April 1783, Philadelphia. Mary Yorke of the City of Philadelphia, widow, requests pass to go to New York to see her daughter. [Granted.] 27 June 1781, Philadelphia. Samuel Yorke, whose brother Thomas Yorke now with the Enemy in the City of New York intends shortly to return to England, and Samuel having a demand on Thomas, requests to Elizabeth Town to meet his brother. [No indication if granted. 33] 20 December 1781, Philadelphia. Barbara Young, the wife of Thomas Young, late of the District of Southwark, laborer, whose husband was a native of England and resided some years in this country and about four months ago left her and went to New York to return to his native country. She has received a verbal message by a prisoner lately returned from New York that at request her to come to him, he having a prospect of an early passage from thence to England, and requests pass. [Granted, but not to return.] 3 December 1782, Philadelphia. Carolina Young, wife of Lewis Young of the city of Philadelphia cordwainer, whose cousin Catharine Bieler yesterday solicited permission to go to New York to see her parents,34 and Carolina, wanting to see her uncle Andrew Bieler. [Rejected.] Character endorsement by Charles Cooper, W’m Shannon, Jacob Scoab[?] 3 October 1782, Philadelphia. Elizabeth Young of the City of Philadelphia requests pass to go to New York to see her husband Capt. Samuel Young, who is a prisoner. [Granted.] Character endorsement by Jos Carson. 27 May 1779, Philadelphia. Elizabeth Young of the City of Philadelphia widow, who has struggled hard to procure an hones livelihood for herself and two children, but finding herself advanced in years and unable any longer to earn her daily bread, poor and friendless in a strange country, wants to go with her two 31 The jacket gives the date 18 August 1779, but she received a pass on 7 August 1779 to go and not return (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 12:68). £1500 is written on the jacket, apparently the size of the bond required. 32 Permission for Edward York was granted (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 13:150). 33 The petition was dismissed (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 12:772). 34 Her pass was in Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine 44(2006):179—80. Final copy 28 October, 2008 380 Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine Vol. 45 children to Germany her native place where she has friends and relations to provide for her and her children, and not come back, requests pass to go to New York or elsewhere to procure a quick passage to Germany. [No indication if granted.35] Character endorsement by Reinhardt Kahmer. 14 July 1779. Bond for £500 by Nicholas Weaver of the City of Philadelphia taylor and George Keehmle of the said City surgeon-barber that Elizabeth Young, who has received permission to go to New York, will not return without permission. Witnesses James Trimble and Will’m Matlack. 4 March 1783, Philadelphia. Joanna Young, a native of New York who left it before the British Troops took possession thereof, in the absence of her husband, Capt. John Young, who was then gone to France for a cargoe of powder arms &c, having a number of relations in that City, as well as others with whom she has business of importance, which she wishes to settle before the place is evacuated, requests pass. [Granted.] Character endorsement by Clement Biddle and William Semple. 19 February 1783. Sarah Reynolds, who has a sister in New York named Mary Young with two small children who want to return to New York, and Mr Tho’s Jones intends to go from Philadelphia to Dobb’s Ferry to meet Mary Young and her children to accompany them to this city, requests pass for Mary, children, and Thomas. [Rejected, she not being recommended.] 22 November 1782, Philadelphia. Rebeccah Young, whose husband Francis Young now lives in New York and intends to leave this continent this winter, requests pass to go by stage to Elizabeth Town and not return. [Granted.] Character endorsement by Benj’n McVeagh, Isaiah Worrell, and Daniel Keen. (concluded) 35 Granted 7 July with bond not to return (Minutes of the Supreme Executive Council [note 2], 12:36). It is not certain, given the six-week gap and no mention of children, that these documents are for the same person. Final copy 28 October, 2008