Documents

1856 Revolutionary War Widows Pension - Testimony of Sarah Gardner

6 February 1856, Warren County, New Jersey

In the 1850s, Sarah Gardner, wife of Joseph Gardner, was trying to obtain a widow's pension. Her husband died in 1838 and had not previously had a pension. In order to receive a widow's pension, she had to prove her relationship to Joseph and prove that Joseph served in the Revolutionary War. This required documentation and witness affidavits.

The testimony of Sarah Gardner, age 81, widow of Joseph:

-Joseph Gardner was a team driver for more than 2 years in the Revolutionary War.
-Joseph entered into service sometime in 1778. He served under Captain John Gardner, his brother.
-A pension was granted to Elizabeth Gardner, the widow of James, brother of Joseph.
-A pension was granted to John Gardner, Wagon Master. His widow now has a pension.
-She married Joseph Gardner in the house of her grandfather, John Hendusbot in Greenwich Township on 6 May 1792. Her maiden name was Hess.
-Joseph Gardner died on 17 Jun 1838. She has remained a widow.
-She and Joseph had: Rachel, Elizabeth, Catharine, William, Mary, Ellen, Sally Ann, Lavira, and Joseph.

Fold3.com, Revolutionary War Pensions (New Jersey), Joseph Gardner, p. 9-11 of 62