What is the Point of Revolutionary War Pension Records?
The Revolutionary War Pension Records are a valuable resource for genealogists, historians, and researchers seeking to understand the lives of the brave men and women who fought for American independence. But what is the point of these records, and what can they reveal about our ancestors?
Understanding the Context
The Revolutionary War Pension Records were created in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, as the Continental Congress and later the U.S. government sought to provide financial support to soldiers who had served in the war. The records consist of applications, supporting documentation, and pension files, which provide a wealth of information about the soldiers, their families, and their experiences during the war.
Key Information Revealed
Revolutionary War Pension Records can reveal a wide range of information, including:
- Biographical details: Names, dates of birth and death, places of residence, and other personal details.
- Military service: Dates of enlistment, discharge, and rank; battles fought; and military units served with.
- Injuries and illnesses: Details of wounds, illnesses, and disabilities incurred during the war.
- Family relationships: Marriage, children, and relationships with other family members.
- Land ownership: Information about land grants, purchases, and sales.
Why are these Records Important?
Revolutionary War Pension Records are important for several reasons:
- Genealogical research: These records can help researchers connect with ancestors who served in the war, providing valuable information about their lives and experiences.
- Historical research: The records offer insights into the war itself, including the experiences of soldiers, the impact of the war on civilians, and the challenges faced by the Continental Army.
- Understanding the war’s legacy: The pension records can help us understand the impact of the war on American society, including the settlement of the West, the development of the U.S. military, and the shaping of American identity.
- Preserving family history: The records provide a unique window into the past, allowing us to learn about our ancestors’ lives and experiences in a way that is not possible with other historical records.
What Can You Learn from these Records?
Here are some examples of what you can learn from Revolutionary War Pension Records:
- Who served: The records reveal the identities of soldiers who served in the war, including both officers and enlisted men.
- Where they served: The records provide information about the battles and campaigns in which soldiers participated.
- What they suffered: The records detail the injuries, illnesses, and disabilities that soldiers incurred during the war.
- How they were compensated: The records show how soldiers were compensated for their service, including the amount and type of pension they received.
Accessing the Records
Revolutionary War Pension Records are housed at the National Archives in Washington, D.C. and are available online through various databases and websites, including:
- Fold3: A subscription-based database that provides access to a wide range of Revolutionary War records, including pension files.
- Ancestry.com: A subscription-based database that offers access to Revolutionary War records, including pension files and other historical documents.
- National Archives: The National Archives website provides free access to Revolutionary War records, including pension files, through its online catalog and databases.
Conclusion
Revolutionary War Pension Records are a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the brave men and women who fought for American independence. By studying these records, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the war, its participants, and its legacy, as well as connect with their own ancestors who played a role in this pivotal moment in American history.
Table: Key Information Revealed in Revolutionary War Pension Records
| Information | Description |
|---|---|
| Biographical details | Names, dates of birth and death, places of residence, and other personal details |
| Military service | Dates of enlistment, discharge, and rank; battles fought; and military units served with |
| Injuries and illnesses | Details of wounds, illnesses, and disabilities incurred during the war |
| Family relationships | Marriage, children, and relationships with other family members |
| Land ownership | Information about land grants, purchases, and sales |
Bullets List: Why are Revolutionary War Pension Records Important?
• Genealogical research
• Historical research
• Understanding the war’s legacy
• Preserving family history
