Valley Southern Claims Commission Papers



Southern Claims Commission: Claim of David Guthrie, 1873, Claim No. 14090

Summary: David Guthrie filed this claim in 1873 for $849, claiming the Union army under General Beatty's command pastured their animals on his property in addition to taking corn, hay, cord wood, rails, and some of his horses in 1863 and 1865. David was a 71 year old farmer who resided near Jonesboro, Washington County, Tennesse during the war. The Union army took his property from there. David moved to Augusta County after the war. All witnesses are from Jonesboro, Tennesse. Included in the claim is testimony of William Watkins, a slave working for David but owned by Susan W. Watkins. The Commission did not consider the second claim separately as it was extremely similar to his first claim. Both claims were disallowed.

Items Claimed:

Item Claimed: Amount Claimed: Amount Allowed: Amount Disallowed:
7 items amounting to $849.00 $0.00 $849.00


Claims Summary:

Claimant is years old, farmer in boro Tennessee during the war and swears to his loyal sympathies and votes. He calls two witnesses who were not intimately acquainted with him and who cannot testify to any loyal conduct or conversation of his but who say they were Union men themselves and think that he was regarded as a Union man in the Community. But on the other hand the claimant received $750 from Confederate Authorities, for leather and horses used for the army during the second or third year of the war, and he travelled back and forth two or three times from Tennessee to Virginia.

In view of these facts the testimony in favor of loyalty of Claimant is insufficient and unsatisfactory and we therefore reject the claim.


Testimony: David Guthrie

David Guthrie Claimant being duly sworn deposes and says I am 71 years of age reside at Fishersville Augusta County Virginia by occupation a Farmer and Merchant.

1. I resided near Jonesboro Washington County Tennessee. I was at my then residence, my occupation was Farming and Merchant.

2. I resided at my then residence in Washington County Tennessee. I was personally here during that period and my business was Farming and selling Goods, and did not change my residence during that time.

3. I never did.

4. I never did.

5. I never did. Never was.

6. Never was.

7. I never did.

8. I never did.

9. Never was.

10. No to all points of the question.

11. No to all points of the question.

12. No to all points of the question.

13. No to all points of the question.

14. No to all points of the question.

15. I did not.

16. I never was.

17. I was arrested by Genl Williams at my Home in Washington County Tennessee in the fall of 1863 and kept under arrest about 4 hours. I took no oath to the Confederacy to get released. I never was arrested by the United States Government.

18. The Rebels took at one time about 1500$ in State Bank money from me and Grain at various times.

19. I was frequently threatened by the Rebels came very near being Shot several times by them on account of my Union sentiments, Genl Williams for one told me if he caught me out of my own yard he would have me shot, and others threatened me whose name I do not recollect.

20. I do no remember of ever being personally molested except when I was arrested by Genl Williams in the fall of 1863.

21. I do not recollect of having done so.

22. I did not, except to feed Union soldiers and Union men.

23. I had some distant relations in both Armys but never saw them and never did anything for them.

24. I never did.

25. I never did.

26. Never was.

27. No to all points of the question.

28. Never was.

29. Never was.

30. Never did. Never was. Was not.

31. Have no recollection of ever receiving any Pass.

32. I am not. Have not.

33. I sympathized with the Union all the time. I was a Union man all the time. I adhered to the Union, voted and acted with the Union cause.

34. In conclusion I do solemnly declare that from the beginning of the hostilities against the United States to the end thereof, my sympathies were constantly with the cause of the United States that I never of my own free will and accord did anything or offered or sought or attempted to do antyhing by word or deed to injure said cause or retard its success and that I was at all times ready and willing when called upon or if called upon to aid and assist the cause of the Union or its supporters so far as my means and power and the circumstances of the case permitted.

And being further examined by James O. Senter Claimants Attorney says, I saw the two acres of Meadow used for pasture for months by Col Reeves of Genl Beatys Command from April to July 1865. I saw the 12 acres of Red Clover pastured by Genl Beatys Command from April to July 1865. I did not see the two Mares taken nor in their possession but was told by several Officers of the Command Maj Lawson for one that they were in their possession and service. The Mares were in good condition sound and was worth 225$ for the two. The 2 acres of pasture was good Meadow and the use of it for three months was worth at least 25$ The Hay that I could have made from it would have been much more. The Clover was good and was worth 50$ at a very low estimate 50$. I never have received any pay for any of said property.

And being further examined by Special Commissioner in asnwer to the second set of questions says.

1. I was when the pasture was used.

2. I saw the Meadow pastured and the Red Clover pastured.

3. I did not.

4. From my premises from April to July 1865 by Genl Beatys Command.

5. John E. C. Smith and others was present.

6. There was officers present but did not know their names. The Officers Headquarters was at Jonesboro at the time.

7. The pasture was used on the premises and the Horses rode off.

8. Horses rode off.

9. Horses taken to Maj Lawsons Camp about one mile from Jonesboro Tenn.

10. The Officers tole me so. Taken for the use of the U.S. Army.

11. No complaint made. Maj Lawson told me the Horses should be returned but they never was.

12. No Voucher or Receipt asked for. I did not get to see any officer to ask for it before they left.

13. Taken and used in the day time openly.

14. No part of the army encamped in that vicinity, had been no battles or skirmishes near there it was after the war had about closed, did not know any of the Q.M.e. names.

15. The Meadow was good and the Red Clover was very good pasture. The Horses was taken in the latter part of June 1865 by Genl Beatys command and was good sound Mares and worth not less than 225$ for the two. The pasture was used between April and July 1865.

16. I had the Meadow and Clover pasture measured and know that there was two acres of the Meadow and 12 acres of the Clover. The Mares I know was taken and Maj Lawson told me they had them.

19. I know that it was taken for the actual use of the U.S. Army.

20. I know that their necessities compelled them to take the property.

21. I know that it was a Military necessity that they used the pasture and took the 2 Mares.

22. I know that they ought to pay me for the property.

23. I believe that it was taken and used under the orders of the Officers who had the authority to order and take such articles for the use of the Army. I owned a farm of about 60 acres at that time about 50 acres of it cleared. I have never received any pay for any of said property. Further this deponent saith not.

David Guthrie

D.G. Thornburgh Special Commissioner


Testimony: Robert L. Blair

Robert L. Blair witness to prove the Loyalty of Claimant being duly sworn deposes and says. I am 66 years of age, reside at Jonesboro Washington County Tennessee by occupation an Iron maker.

I have known Claimant for perhaps 10 years before the war. I was well acquainted with him during the war. I lived about 1/2 miles from him. I saw him perhaps twice a week during the War. I conversed with him about the war its causes and progress. I was an adherent to the cause of the South and Claimant regarded me as a Southern man in sentiment. His sympathies was with the Government of the United States. I know this from his conversations with me on the subject. He conversed with me both in the presence of others and alone. His public reputation as to loyalty was very good. He was regarded as a Union man and never heard it questioned. I do not know of the Claimant ever giving anything to aid the Union causes or ever giving any information to the Officer or soldiers of the Union Army. I do not know of his ever being threatened or molested on account of his Union sentiments. I do not know of him ever contributing anything to aid the Confederate States or ever owning any Confederate Bonds, or ever doing anything to sustain the credit of the Confederate States.

Ques. Do you know of any act done of language used by the Claimant that would have prevented him from establishing his loyalty to the Confederate States had they been maintained as a seperate Government.

Ans. If the Confederacy had beenb maintained as a separate Government he could not have established his loyalty to it by me.

I am not related to Claimant and have no interest in his Claim.

Further this deponent saith not.

R.L. Blair Sr.

D.G. Thornburgh Special Commissioner


Testimony: S. L. Shipley

S. L. Shipley Witness to prove the Loyalty of Claimant being duly sworn deposes and says I am 55 years of age, reside one mile South of Jonesboro Washington County Tennessee, by ocupation a Farmer.

I have known Claimant about 16 or 18 years. I was well acquainted with him during the later part of the war. I lived about one hundred yards of Claimant. I saw him frequently. I frequently talked with him about the War its causes and progress. I was a Union man and Claimant so regarded me. His sympathies appeared to be with the U.S. I knew this from his conversations. His conversations was generally alone with me. He was publicly regarded as a Union man. He was regarded by his loyal neighbors as a Union man as far as I knew. I do not know of him ever giving anything to aid the Union cause, or ever giving any information to the Officers of the Union Army.

I know that he was once arrested by Genl Williams and released I do not know of him ever giving any aid to the Confederacy or ever giving any information to the Officers or soldiers of the Confederate Army, or ever owning any Confederate Bonds, or ever doing anything to sustain the credit of the Confederate States.

Ques. Do you know of any act deed or language used by the Claimant that would have prevented him from establishing his loyalty to the Confederacy had it been maintained as a seperate Government.

Ans. I would consider it doubtful whether he could have established his loyatly to the Confederacy or not, if it had gained its Independence.

I am not related to David Gutherie the Claimant and have no interest in his Claim whatever.

Further this deponent saith not.

Shipley

D.G. Thornburgh Special Commissioner


Testimony: John E. C. Smith

John E. C. Smith Witness to prove the taking of Claimants property being duly sworn, deposes and says I am 35 years of age, reside about 3/4 of a mile West of Jonesboro, Washington County, Tennessee by ocupation a Farmer and Tanner.

And being further examined by James O. Senter Claimants Atty. says.

I saw the 2 acres of Meadow and the 12 acres of Red Clover pastured belonging to David Gutherie the Claimant. I think it was the 4th Tennessee Infantry that pastured the Meadow, and I believe that it was the same command that pastured the 12 acres of Clover, they were all under the command of Genl Beaty. The Meadow and Clover was good. There was about 2 acres of the Meadow and not less than 12 acres of the Clover.

I do not know of him ever receiving any pay for said pasture.

And being further examined by Special Commissioner in answer to the Second set of questions says.

1. I was.

2. I saw them pasture the 2 acres of Meadow and the 12 acres of Clover.

3. I did not.

4. Used on Claimants premises from April to July 1865 by Genl Beatys Command.

5. Claimant and others was present.

6. Officers was present but I did not know them.

7. Used on Claimants premises.

8. Used in the premises by the U.S. Soldier.

9. Taken and used in premises.

10. Taken for the use of Genl Beatys Command.

11. Heard no complaint made.

12. I do not know of any Voucher or Receipt being asked for or received.

13. Used during both day and night openly.

14. No Army encamped near there, had been no battle or skirmish near there, did not know any of the Q.Ms.

15. The Pasture was all good.

16. I believe there was 2 acres of the Meadow from the size of it, and at least 12 acres of Clover or more.

19. I know that it was taken for the use of the U.S. Army because I saw them using it.

20. I believe it was taken in consequence of a necessity for such pasture at that time.

21. I believe that it was a Military necessity that it was taken and used.

22. I believe the Government ought to pay him for it, as they got it and used it for the benefit of the U.S. Army.

23. I believe that it was taken and used by or under the order or authority of some Officer or person having the proper authority to do so.

I am not related to Claimant and have no interest in his Claim. He was the owner of a farm at that time of about 130 acres, the largest part of which was cleared.

John E. C. Smith his mark

D.G. Thornburgh Special Commissioner


Testimony: D.G. Thurnburgh

To the Hon Commissioners of Claims Washington D.C.

Sirs,

I herewith certify that the Claimant David Guthery together with his witnesses Robert L. Blair, S. T. Shipley and John E.C. Smith personally appeared before me the 11th day of May 1872 at Jonesboro Washington County Tennessee appearing as Attorney for the Claimant. The above claimant is a citizen of Fishersville Augusta County Virginia. Witnesses are all citizens of Washington County Tenn Some of the Loyl Citizens of this place agree that this claim is unjust.

Respectfully Submitted

D.G. Thurnburgh

Special Commissioner


Testimony: Claims Commission regarding Gutherie's Second Claim

No. 14090

The Claim of David Gutherie

This Claim consists of 3 items amounting to $300.00. Amount Disallowed. $300.00

Augusta Co., in the State of Virginia.

This Claim is presented by the same party and through the same Agent as Claim 14048 and it dont appear that there is any reason good or bad for dividing the claim into two parts. The evidence of loyalty is not particularly strengthened in this second claim.

Two witnesses are called one of whom was confessed disloyal who gives it as his opinion that claimant was loyal and another knew him only a short time before the close of the war. Claimant himself says nothing about receiving pay for leather and horses in his answer to interrogaties filed with this claim, but alleges that Rebels took $1500 in Bank paper from him.

The facts and circumstances developed in counnection with this claim does not diminish or change the unfavorable impression made by the other, and we therefore reject this claim also.


Testimony: David Guthrie

In the matter of David Guthrie

Claimant aged 71 years Being duly Sworn deposes and says. He resides in Fishersville Augusta County Virginia and has been a Farmer and Merchant, And further says in answer to first set of questions.

1. I lived West about three eights of a miles from Jonesboro Washington County Tennessee. I was at home and was Merchandizing and farming.

2. I resided three eights of a mile West of Jonesboro Washington County Tennessee and was at home until the Spring of 1863. I then went to Virginia two or three times, I went to see my frinds and to lay out my Confederate money in something and was farming I did not chnage my residence.

3. I never did

4. I never did

5. No sir. No sir.

6. No sir

7. No indeed

8. No sir

9. No sir

10. No to all points of the question.

11. No to all points of the question

12. No sir

13. No to all points of the question

14. No to all points of the question

15. No sir

16. No sir

17. I was arrested once but do not recollect the time, by old General Williams of the rebel army. I was at home. I was kept about four hours, I was reprimanded and released. Never was arrested by the U.S. Government.

18. About fifteen Hundred dollars worth of leather at one time, also a couple of horses it was taken in the Winter of 1862-3. It was I suppose to shoe the army. They sent me about seven hundred and fifty dollars.

19. I dont recollect

20. I believe not

21. I never did

22. I never did

23. I dont recollect of having any in either army.

24. I never did

25. Not of my knowledge

26. No sir

27. No Sir

28. No sir

29. No sir

30. No Sir. No Sir. No Sir

31. I dont think I ever did

32. I am not

33. I sympathized with the Union Cause. My feelings and language were for the Union. On the Union side I exerted my influence and Cast my vote. I voted against Seperation. No Ratification I adhered to the Union Cause.

34. My sympathies were constantly with the Cause of the Union, I never of my own free will and accord, did anything or offered or sought or attempted to do anything by word or deed, to injure said cause or retard its success and I was at all times ready & willing when called upon or if called upon to aid and assist the Cause of the Union or its supporters so far as my means and powers and the circumstances of the case permitted.

And being further examined by James O. Senter Claimants Attorney says

I saw the most of the Corn taken, it was ripe and taken out of the field and it was worth One dollar per bushel. And was taken by 7th Ohio Cavalry, in September and October 1863. I saw a part of the hay taken the hay was good, and was worth One dollar per Hundred And was taken by 7th Ohio Cavalry. I saw them driving my two beeves away. They were tolerable good beeves. And was worth about six cents per poud. And was taken by the 12thKyCav. in Sept 1863. I saw them taking the rails. They were medium rails, and were good, and dont know what they are worth. The most of the rails were taken in March and April 1865 by the 4th Tennessee Infantry; never received any pay for this property. I owned a little place here then, One of about fifteen and one twenty seven acres. And the other about fifteen acres. It would average per acre forty or fifty bushels to the acre of Corn. And all together was worth about thirty three hundred dollars.

And being further examined in answer to second set of questions says.

1. Was present

2. I saw the most of the corn and part of the hay. I saw five hundred pounds of the beef & I saw two thirds of the rails taken.

3. I did not

4. In Septemtber 1863 and October, and in April, May, June, and July 1865. taken on my place By the 4thTenn Infantry and by the 7th Ohio Cav. and the 12thKy Cavalry.

5. I dont recollect

6. I dont know

7. Corn was taken in wagons and in sacks. The hay was hauled and carried, I saw them driving the beeves off. Rails were taken for fuel. I saw them burning the rails. I dont recollect any

8. It was removed by soldiers on horseback and in wagons. They carried the rails on their shoulders. and drove the beeves off on foot.

9. It was taken to their camp, I suppose. I got two vouchers for the corn did not follow up for any thing else. The first evening & no other time.

10. I believe it was taken for the use of the army, I suppose. They fed the horses on the corn, I suppose it was my corn. I did not see anything else used that I know of.

11. I dont recollect only to the Q.Ms. Lt. M. Ruth & Lt. A. Hall. They gave me a memorandum receipts.

12. I did not I dont think

13. It was generally taken in daytime all hours of the day did not take it secretly.

14. Yes sir, Camped on and on both sides of my place. 4thTenn Infantry Stayed from April until July. No battle or skirmish near.

15. The Corn was on the stalk and in the field about ripe and in good Condition and was worth One dollar per bushel. The hay was taken out of my barn. It was good. And was worth One dollar per hundred. The two head of cattle were killed after they drove them off and were in tolerable good eating order. And was worth six cents per pound.

16. Only from my own judgement as to amount of corn. I saw one half or two thirds of the Corn taken I dont know how many bushels I saw taken. I knew the amount of hay by the amount of hay I had in the barn it was guess work with me entirely. I cant say how many pounds was taken. I suppose though from two to three thousand pounds taken. They took two beeves I saw and I judged they would weigh two hundred and fifty pounds each.

18. I saw the soldiers carrying and burning my rails. I cant say anything about it as to numbers. I saw taken the rails disppeared and they were camped there about medium rails five or six years old. I dont think the officers tried to prevent them from taking the rails. I am not certain I made any complaint

19. I believe it was taken for the use of the army I dont know what other use they could have for it.

20. I dont know. I dont believe they had supplies. They said they would not take it if I would point out some rebel neighbors corn.

21. I suppose they were justifiable dont think they would taken it if they did not need it.

22. I suppose the Government ought to pay for it. Simply because it was taken for the use of the army.

23. I have no doubt part of it was because they gave me some receipts. I owned some land at this time and it was worth thirty three Hundred dollars. I never received any pay for this property either in part or in whole.

And further this deponent sayeth not.

D. Guthrie

D. G. Thurnburgh Special Commissioner


Testimony: William R. Sevier

William R. Sevier Claimants witness to prove loyalty being duly sworn deposes and says. He is aged 49 years. Resides in Jonesboro, Washington County Tennessee and is a Physician by Profession and further says

I have known the Claimant for from those to five years previous to the war. I knew him well during the war. And were both residents of the town of Jonesboro Tenn. I saw him often. I cannot remember, very likely we did converse about the war. I was a Union man. And I suppose claimant regarded me as being a Union man. I think the Claimants sympathy was with the Government of the United States. I know this from general report and perhaps by conversations with him. I do not recollect distinctly of at any time conversing with him. I think he was regarded as being a Union man. I do not know of his ever giving anything to aid the Union army or cause or that he ever gave any information to aid the officers or soldiers in their movements or cause. The claimant was arrested on the same day I wasSept 16th 1863 and detained an hour or so, and then released. I do not know of claimant contributing any thing to sustain the credit of the Confederate States or that he ever owned any Confederate bonds. I knew nothing of his financial conditionaffairs. I regarded him as a Union man and I think he was uniformly considered as such. I do not know whether this would have prevented him from establishing his loyalty to the Confederacy or not if it had maintained itself as a seperate Government. I am not related to Claimant either by affinity or Consanguinity And have no interest in his Claim And further this deponent sayeth not.

W.R. Sevier

D.G. Thurnburgh Special Commissioner


Testimony: Henry Hoss

Henry Hoss Claimant witness to prove loyalty being duly sworn deposes and says.

He is aged 53 years. Resides One mile North East of Jonesboro Washington County Tennessee. And is by occupation a farmer, And further says. I have been acquainted with Claimmant for several years previosu to the war. I knew him very well, but was not as intimate with him as I was with other men. I lived in about three fourths of a mile of Claimant. I saw him often. I was a Union man and Claimant could not have regarded me otherwise. The general understanding with Union men here was that Claimants sympathy was with the Government of the United States. I do not know of Claimant contributing any money or property to aid the Union Cause or army or that he ever gave any information to aid the officers or soldiers in their movements and cause. I have good reason to believe he was arrested at one time by the Confederate Authorities at this place. I do not know of Claimant ever giving any money property, or information to aid the Confederatement Government officers or soldiers. Or that he ever did anything to sustain the Credit of the Confederate States. I know from Claimants public reputation that he was a Union man. And do not know whether this would have prevented him or not from establishing his loyalty to the Confederacy if it had maintained itself as a seperate Government. I am not a relation of Claimant nor have I any interest in his claim. And further this deponent sayeth not.

Henry Hoss

D.G. Thurnburgh Special Commissioner


Testimony: William Watkins

William Watkins (colored) Claimants witness to prove taking of property, being duly sworn deposes and says

He is aged about 66 years, lives about two miles East of Jonesboro Washington County Tennessee and is farming.

And in answer to claimants attorney James O. Senter says. I saw them taking the Corn. The corn, was on the stalk and was sound and ripe. And I dont know what corn was worth. It was taken by the Federal Soldiers I dont recollect at this time what Command it was. And it was taken about October 1863. I saw them, have some of Claimants hay. I saw where they had taken it out of the barn and saw where they had strewn the hay on the ground. The hay was No one hay, and I think it was at that time worth about One dollar per Hundred. And was taken about October 1863 And do not at this time recollect what Command it was. I saw them take a bay horse common size. And from three to five years old. And was an good nice horse. And was worth One hundred and twenty five dollars at the least. I saw them taking the rails. And they were good Chestnut rails. And were old. They were burning them at their camp fires. I dont know what they were worth. Cannot price them. I do not know the Command that took the horse or rails. The horse was taken in October or September 1863. And the rails were taken about that tim a part of them and others taken at different times. I saw them taking the Cord wood at the same time the wood had been cut and was green and was good fire wood. And the wood was worth two dollars per cord delivered in Jonesboro. And it was taken in September or October 1863. I was seeding wheat at the time. I dont know the Commands that took any of hte property. I do not know of Claimant ever receiving any pay for this property. The Claimant owned some land at that time about forty five or fifty acres and I think he held it at forty five dollars per acre. I was a slave at that time and lived with Claimant and I belonged to Mrs. Susan W. Watkins.

And being further examined in answer to second set of questions

1. I was present

2. I saw some of the corn taken load after load in the day. I saw them carrying hay. I saw them take the horse. I saw them take and burn a part of the rails in day and I saw them taking the cord wood.

3. I did not

4. In September and October of 1863. And was taken on Claimants farm, And was taken by Federal Soldiers do not know the Command.

5. The Claimant was present. And his family.

6. There was some officers there. I heard the officers order it taken. They said they had to have feed for their horses did not make any difference whether it was Federals or rebels they took from.

7. It was carried off in wagons and sacks. And I suppose without leave.

8. It was taken by soldiers in wagons and in sacks. They carried the rails and burned them in their camp fires. The horse they led away. They cord wood they burned at their camp fires.

9. They used it their on the farm. I saw them using it right there..

10. It was taken to keep the stack up. I saw them feeding and using it.

11. I did not hear any.

12. I did not hear any asked for

13. It was taken day and night. They did not take it secretly they took it boldly and above board.

14. Yes sir. They camped on it and close around the edge of the farm. Do not know the command. They were there two or three times and staid all night once, and three or four days the other times. No battle of skirmish near. I did not know the Q.M.

15. The corn was on the hard order betwixt and between ripe and green. The corn was in the field, dont know what it was worth. The hay was in the barn, and was good sound hay, And it was worth One dollar per Hundred. The bay horse was a nice good sized horse. And was from three to five years old. And was worth One Hundred and twenty five dollars at a low rate. And it seems to me he was branded. I am not certain.

16. I have been farming all my life and I believe there was four hundred bushels taken, the field had about twenty acres in all And I dont think they left more than fifty or seventy five bushels in the field for I gathered the ballance. I cant say how much hay they took.

17. I say fifteen cords of wood or more. I saw them burning it. It was not measured. The wood was green and was cut to haul to town. And was taken on Claimants farm and was worth two dollars a cord in Jonesboro.

18. I saw them taking the rails. Soldiers were carrying them and puting them on the fire. I think the fence I saw them taking was One hundred panels long one of them and the other seventy five panels long. And they were ten rails for I built them myself. The rails were good Old Chestnut rails. The officers did not try keep them from burning them all burnt the rails together. I think the old man Complained about burning his rails and some of the soldiers threatened him.

19. I fully believe it was taken for the use of the army for I saw them using it.

20. I suppose it was necessary for them to take a part, but they waste as as they use.

21. I recon they were justifiable in taking it. They were away from home and had to have some thing to go on.

22. I would say he was entitled to some pay.

23. I believe the officers ordered it taken, because they were there and did not object. I do not know of Claimant ever geting any pay. He owned some land at that time, a Small farm. I was a slave at that time. And was working for him. Mrs. Susan W. Watkins was my mistress. I have no interest in this Claim.

And further this deponent sayeth not.

William Watkins his mark

D.G. Thurnburgh Special Commissioner


Testimony: J.E.C. Smith

J.E.C. Smith Claimants witness to prove taking of property being duly sworn deposes and says

He is aged 35 years. And lives One mile West of Jonesboro Washington County Tennessee, Farmer by Trade.

And in answer to claimants Attorney James O. Senter says.

I saw the Federal Soldiers and they said they belonged to the 7th Ohio Cav. taking Claimants Corn. And I am not certain but think it was in the Fall of 1863. It was good corn and was in the field, and was on the stalk. And dont recollect what it was worth but think about seventy five cents a bushel. I saw them pasturing their stock on his fields and in his meadow. The claimant owned a farm, it was a pretty good place. I do not know of Claimant ever geting any pay for this property. I am not related to the Claimant And have no interest in this claim

And being further examined in answer to second sett of questions says

1. I was

2. I saw them take the corn

3. I saw them pasturing also

4. In the Fall of 1863 on Claimants farm. And the soldiers said they belonged to the 7th Ohio Cavalry.

5. I saw Claimant and his folks in his yard about fifty yards from the field

6. I expect their was. (I dont know) As to ballance of corn.

7. I dont know whether the Claimant give them leave of not.

8. It was taken in their arms and on their shoulders and in sacks on their horses.

9. They carried it to camps near town and near Claimants house. I saw them it was in plain view of me. I did not follow them.

10. It was taken for to feed their horses on. I saw them feeding the corn what I saw them taking.

11. I didnt hear any

12. Not as I know of

13. What I seen was taken in the morning early and of an evening late. They did not take it secretly.

14. Yes Camped right there by him it was called the 7th Ohio Cav. I cant say how long they were there. No skirmish. I did not know the Q.M. or any of the officers.

15. The corn was ripe, and in the field on the stalk, and was pretty good corn and I think it was selling at seventy five cents at that time.

16. I dont know as to quantity. I dont know how much I saw taken.

19. I think it was taken for the use of the army I saw them feed the Corn.

20. I dont think they had much supplies here at that time. I dont think the officers would have let them take the corn if they had had supplies.

21. I expect the necessity justified them to take it.

22. I dont know they had nothing to feed, and I guess they ought to pay for it.

23. I do not know whether it was or not. I am not related to Claimant. The Claimant owned a farm at that time a small farm. And I suppose it was worth about fifteen dollars per acre. I do not know of Claimant ever geting any pay for this property. And further deponent sayeth not.

J.E.C. Smith

D.G. Thurnburgh Special Commissioner


Testimony: William R. Boyd

William R. Boyd Claimants witness to prove taking of property being duly sworn deposes and says.

He is aged 41 years. Resides in Jonesborough Washington County Tennessee. And is a Cabinet Maker by Trade.

And in answer to second sett of questions of Claimants Attorney James O. Senter says

I saw the beef of Claimant taken in the Fall of 1863. I dont know the Command. I think he had about three head of beeves taken. And they would have weighed about two hundred and fifty nett. And I suppose it was worth about ten cents per pound at that time. They were good grass fed beeves. I do not know of Claimant receiving any pay for this property. The Claimant owned some land at that time. I suppose the land he owned was worth two or three thousand dollars. I am a poor judge of the Value. I am not related to Claimant and have no interest in his Claim in any way.

And being further examined in answer to second sett of questions says

1. I was present

2. I saw the three beeves as will as I remember taken

3. I did not

4. I think it was in the Fall fo 1863 taken of of his premises. I do not know by whom it was taken.

5. I believe William Watkins (cold) was present.

6. That is a question I cant answer

7. & 8. They just went into the field & drove them out, I dont recollect what they said about it.

9. I saw them take them and bring them into town here.

10. I suppose they eat them up themselves. I did not see them butchered.

11. Not that I know of.

12. None that I know of

13. No sir in the day, I dont know as to the hour probably about the middle of the afternoon. They took it publicly

14. I dont think there was on the farm by a little distance off I do not know the Command. They staid here about two weeks. No battle or skirmish near. I did not know any of the Q.M. or officers

15. There was three I think of cattle taken and were drove off on foot. They were not fat would have weighed about two Hundred and fifty pounds each. And at that time we had to pay about ten cents per pound. I have not talked to Claimant about the Value.

19. I suppose they took it for the use of the army.

20. I cant tell

21. I cant answer that

22. I suppose they took it and eat it. I cant say whether they ought to pay for it or not.

23. I suppose the soldiers took it by authority or they would not have done it. The Claimant owned some land at that time and I think it was worth two or three Thousand dollars. I am not related to Claimant nor have no interest in his claim. I do not know of his every receiving any pay for this property.

Wm. R. Boyd

D.G. Thurnburgh Special Commissioner


Testimony: D.G. Thurnburgh

To the Hon Commissioners of Claims Washington D.C.

Sirs

I herewith certify that the claimant David Guthrie together with his witnesses Dr. William R. Sevier, Henry Hoss, William Watkins colered J.E.C. Smith and William R. Boyd personally appeared before me the 6th day of May 1872 at Jonesboro Washington County Tennessee and were duly sworn and deposed as their deposions show James O. Senter of Panther Springs Hamblin County Tennessee appearing as Attorney for the Claimant. The claimant is a citizen of Fishersville Augusta County Virginia witnesses are all citizens of Washington County Tennessee.

Respectfull Submitted

D.G. Thurnburgh Special Commissioner


Testimony: John Boyd

State of Tennessee, Wasington County

Personally appeared before me John F. Grisham Clerk of the County Court in and for the State and County aforesaid John Boyd who being duly sworn according to Law says: that he was acquainted with Mr. David Guthrie and lived within a few hundred yards of him during the late Rebellion. Affiant has had divers conversations with Mr Guthrie which lead affiant very clearly to believe Mr Guthrie to be a Union man and a friend of our Government that the said Guthrie was by Union men generally considered a friend to the Union, that from the best of my knowledge information and belief I can but believe said Guthrie to have been a Union man

John Boyd

Sworn to and subscribed before me this 11th day of March 1874 and I have no interest in this claim.

John F GrishamCo.Ct. Clerk


Testimony: S.T. Shipley

State of Tennessee Washington County

Personally appeared before me John F. Grisham Clerk of the County Court in and for said State and County. S.T. Shipley who being duly sworn according to law says: that he was acquainted with Mr. David Guthrie that he lived a near neighbor to him from about the middle the year 1862 up to the time of his removing to Virginia which was some time in the year 1866. that I believed him and always looked upon him as a Union man and a friend ot the Government.

S T Shipley

Sworn to and subscribed before me this 11th day of March 1874. And I have no interest in the prosecution of this Claim.

John F Grisham Clerk


Testimony: Letter from David Guthrie to J. T. Harris

Fishersville Dec 29/74

Hon J.T. Harris

Dear Sir, I have been waiting to hear from Jonesborough when it will be necessary for myself to go to Tennessee on other business & then try to get signed to a petition for a rehearing which a friend wrights to me I can get as many loyal signers as I want & will herein enclose a letter from Mrs Mary J. Ryle now living in RenesvilleTenn who boarded at my house nearly all the war time & within say 300 yds the remainder of the time & learning by letter that Congress had rejected my claim set down under & sent me the enclosed statement which I suppose she intends for me to use if necessary She is a Lady of very high standing High minded & I know if I was at JB at this time that I could see to sign a statement to prove the same. The Rebel Genl Jackson lived in fully view of my house so not over 300 yds distant Therefore Jackson askd the favor of me as his neighbor to protect his farm in from injury by Loyal troops with the promise to do as much for my family (Mrs Ryle then boarding at my house)

I see I have a Petition paper here ready for the signatures of Loyal persons & suppose will have to go to Jonesborough to procuse signers as a friend there has written to me that I could get as many Loyal signers as I want of attendance to, and suppose I had better go very soon if not too late now but will be governed by your advice in the matter as I know you will direct what think will be best for my interest as I am now a broken down old man not able now with a very delicate wife to make a living. Your advice and attention will very oblige your fr.

D Guthrie


Testimony: Letter from David Guthrie to J. S. Harris

Fishersville Va March 13/74

HonlJno T. Harris

Dear Sir

I was so much surprised at the idea of being reported as disloyal I concluded to write to Shelby T Shiply Sherriff of Washington County for number of years both prior & since the war whose House & Home was just across the road from my house in talking distance informing him of the report of disloyalty & He has taken the trouble to get up a certificate from himself and one from Mr Jno Boyd also a very close neighbor & saw each other almost every day and have every chance of knowing my true sentements & acts and suppose would have stated the facts of Dr Sevier & myself both being put in prison by the rebels dangerous union men which was certainly no secret (but forgotten) The cruel War I certainly labored against beleiving that I would loose greatly by it which is certainly true and have realy lost nearly all I was worth at the commencement of the war & if I loosethe my claim now will place me without means for a support in my 74thyear. I hope it is not too late to introduce evidence to prove the report of disloyalty as realy a slander & I must suspect & certain Rebel Genl of that county as that man who I know is since the war is realy an enemy your attention to this matter if not too late will certainly greatly oblige your friend D Guthrie

PS It can be proven that the rebel army whilst located at Renersville sent an agent & he locked up my store by impressing nearly every thing it sontained over $2,000 a greater part in Spanish sole leather. I had succeeded in getting through the rebel lines, but a rebel telegram informed the rebels then at Renersville in less than two days They afterward took possession of my store room & a dwelling attached & hotel untill the surrender simply because I was Union &c. D G


Testimony: United States War Department

WAR DEPARTMENT ADJUTANT GENERAL'S OFFICE, April 29, 1892.

Respectfully returned to the Department of Justice, by authority of the Secretary of War, inviting attention to the following report, viz:

There are on file in this office five vouchers signed by D. Guthrie (in favor of David Guthrie) and dated Jonesboro, Haynesville, & Bristol, Tenn., and Abingdon, Va., for rent of house, hauling, one mule, and forage. Also two claims of David Guthrie, of Washington Co., Tenn., for value of leather &c seized by the C.S.

No further information found.

Allen J. Wilkins Ass't Adjutant General


Bibliographic Information : Southern Claims Commission: Claim of David Guthrie, 1873, Claim No. 14090, Source copy consulted: National Archives, Washington, D.C., RG 123, Congressional Jurisdiction #14048 / #14090.



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