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About Revolutionary War Pensions by Jeannette Holland Austin
Revolutionary War Pensions contain a ton of historical and personal information. There are several things to keep in mind. Most service was in 3-month stretches. This is because people signed up for three months, then went home and tended their crops. Also, planters sometimes sent a slave or paid for a replacement. Although this practice was not wide-spread, sooner or later the British threatened, and the necessity arose to protect family. The affidavits of friends, relatives and neighbors provide personal tid bits you would not otherwise see. It all comes together in describing the times and lifestyles. You get real history. All of you have seen the "R" applications (example pension #R1597). That means that the application was refjected. Usually, the soldier did not enlist in the Continental Army but was probably a member of a local militia which performed spasmotic guerrilla attacks around occupied cities, such as Charleston and Savannah. The "R" applications doubtless represent the unsung hero, the true adventurer. Pensions were not allotted without proving at least one years' service. So the various terms were tallied up in the applications...when, where, commanders, etc. That is why there is more detail in Revolutionary War Pensions than Civil War.
Jeannette Holland Austin, Georgia Author of Genealogy Books
Georgia County Records (digital images) wills, estates, marriages
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