He was born on 16 March 1840, in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, to Andrew Collins and Eliza Walter. [sources: date: 7, 19; 4 (24 in 1864), 9 (12 in 1850), 10 (20 in 1860). place: 4, 9, 10. parents: 7]
In 1850, he was living in Southampton Township, Bedford County, Pennsylvania. He was living with Andrew and Eliza Collins and others. He had attended school within the year. [source: 9]
In 1860, he was living in Southampton Township, Bedford County, Pennsylvania. He was living with Eliza Collins and others. He was a farm laborer. [source: 10]
On 23 March 1862, he married Barbara Tewell, in Southampton Township, Bedford County, Pennsylvania. They were married by James Pennell. She was born on 1 September 1837, in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, to Moses Tewell and Mary Gordon. They had three known children:
John W Geary Collins was born about a week after General John W Geary was elected governor of Pennsylvania, and was named after him. [sources: 7, 11, 13 (0 children, 0 living in 1900), 17, 19, 20]
When he enlisted, he was a farmer. [source: 4]
When he enlisted, he was 5 feet 8-1/2 inches tall, and had a fa[ir?] complexion, blue eyes, and light hair. [source: 4]
He was drafted from the sixteenth congressional district. He enlisted and was mustered into service on 21 September 1864. He enlisted for one year, at Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. (He reported to Chambersburg with Isaac W Smith and Thomas Hymes (I). While they were on the way, Collins told Hymes '[t]hat he was a sound and healthy man and would be compelled to go, as he had no claim for exemption'.) He was a private in company F. [sources: 1, 4, 5 (Oct 64), 16, 17]
His messmate, Isaac W Smith (F), later said:
that some time about the first of November this affiant and the said Collins participated in an advance upon the Weldon Railroad; that the marching was very heavy, and the weather inclement; that on said march the said Collins first manifested sympoms of diarrhea, which continued up to the 28th of March, 1865, when the said Collins and this affiant were sent to the 5th Corp Hospital, at City Point, Va., where they remained until about the first of April when they were removed to "Soldiers' Rest" in the same place, where they remained until about the 14th of April 1865, when they joined their command, and remained with it until discharged; that the said Collins appeared to be weak and suffering more or less from diarrhea up to the date of said discharge.
[source: 17]
On 28 March 1865, he was admitted to the 1st Division Hospital, Fifth Army Corps, and was transferred to the Depot Field Hospital, 5th Army Corps, at City Point, Virginia. He was admitted for treatment of acute bronchitis. [source: 17]
On 29 March 1865, he was returned to duty. [source: 17]
He was discharged near Washington DC by general order on 1 June 1865. He was a private, in company F. [sources: 1, 3, 5 (May 65), 16, 17 (30 May 65)]
On 8 February 1867, he died. He died of incipient phthisis (and perhaps also diarrhea). He was buried in the Mount Zion Graveyard, in Southampton Township, Bedford County, Pennsylvania. His grave has a Grand Army of the Republic star and flag. [sources: 2, 7, 8 (Mount Zion Christian Cemetery, Chaneysville, Bedford Cty PA), 17]
On 18 August 1869, his widow, Barbara Collins, successfully applied from Pennsylvania for a pension. Her witnesses included Moses Tewell and John Johnson, and Isaac W Smith. Her original attorney was Joseph R Durborrow, of Bedford, Pennsylvania, later replaced by James A Morgan. She was admitted on 6 June 1870, and received a pension of $8 per month, plus $2 for each child less than sixteen, retroactive to 8 February 1867. [sources: 6, 15, 17]
On 27 December 1869, someone sent a letter to the Pension Office under the name 'P.M.'. This person alleged that the neighbors of "Smith", whom he did not live near, report 'that he draws a pension on account of blindness and ... that it is only a pretence'. PM claimed he did not know whether that was true, but was 'aware that he is a considerable Rebel to his Government'. I do not know who Smith was, or whether the Pension Office took any action on PM's claims about him. But PM added a note about Barbara Collins' application for pension:
There is an application depending [sic] for Pension through J R Durborry [?] of Bedford Pa. for a pension for Barbary [sic] Collins Widow of Isaiah Collins a private in the 91st Pa Vols. She is not entitled to any Pension. her husband taken [sic] sick and died a considerable time after he was home discharged out of the army and his mother and Brothers say he was stouter after his return from the army than ever before, and he said so himself and done larger days work [sic]. If you write his mother Eliza Collins - His Brother James Collins they will vouch to [sic] these facts and they have threatened to write the Pension Office about it. they say his widow is not entitled to any Pension. The widow lives at Home with her father and her three children and her father is in good circumstances. In fact think [sic] he is the wealthiest man in the County and is him [sic] that is trying to get the pension. I do not write the above out of any Ill feelings towards any of the parties, but it would be an outrageous thing If she was [sic] to receive a pension. I could write you the character of the witnesses or [sic] a heart of stone, but will write no more. please do not Expose me about this matter. I have wrote [?] you facts for your Guidance, and I can bring the Whole Community to substanciate [sic] that there never ought any [sic] Pension to be granted in this Case.
[source: 21]
In 1870, his widow, Barbary Collins, was living in Southampton Township, Bedford County, Pennsylvania. She was living with her children Francis, Ester, and John, along with two others. [source: 11]
On 1 February 1875, someone in the Pension Office must have noticed the reference in PM's letter to Barbara Collins. The letter has written on it, 'Extract filed in case Feb. 1, 1875'. No doubt beause of this, an investigation was ordered. [source: 21]
On 17 April 1875, Special Agent W H Corkhill investigated PM's complaint, and recommended that Barbara Collins be dropped from the pension rolls. He interviewed Jacob Potts, Susannah Morse, Isaiah's mother Eliza, Isaiah's brothers James and Elijah, Isaac Collins, and Dr Thomas B Robasson. Potts allegedly claimed that Collins had a cough for some years before enlisting. Morse claimed that Collins frequently visited his brother in October 1865, when he was confined to bed with consumption (in her house because he had married one of her nieces). Eliza and James claimed that Isaiah's father had lung disease:
[He] was always troubled with an affliction of the Lungs, + that he the father had but one sound Lung, the other being partially destroyed. But that the father died of Typhoid fever[.]
According to Eliza and James, Isaiah did not have lung disease before enlisting, but seemed as healthy as ever when he returned, and told them (at different times) that serving in the army had improved his health. They and Elijah testified that Isaiah and worked as usual at all the manual labor involved in farming until October 1866. Isaac Collins reported that he was healthy in summer 1865, was plowing with a hill-side plow, and reported that his health was as good as ever. Finally, Dr Robasson reported that he had no records about Collins; his practice was to destroy the pass books with his accounts when the accounts were settled, since the information was 'of use no longer'. [sources: 17]
In his Corkhill correctly noted that Barbara Collins had presented little evidence for her claim. (But the evidence from his mess-mate Isaac W Smith and the physician Dr Robasson seems to me relatively high-quality evidence.) Corkhill correctly summarizes the evidence he gathered as inconsistent with Barbara Collins' claims, and with the testimony of Smith and Robasson. He denigrates the physician's testimony in this way:
from the service Dr Robasson says he attended the soldier in his last illness. "That said Collins shortly after his discharge from the US as a soldier died." the Dr in his second statement says A short time after his discharge he was called to see him. found him suffering[.] some idea of what the Dr. means by the word "shortly" may be seen when it is remembered [?] that the soldier did not die until about twenty months after his discharge + yet the Dr says "he died shortly after discharge".
Now, Corkhill refers to two statements by Robasson, and I found only one (dated 14 May 1870). But in that statement, Robasson clearly says that he saw Collins shortly after he returned from the Army 'and found him labouring under Chronic Diarrhoea, and incipient Phthisis, from effects of which disease he died'. That statement clearly does not claim that Collins died shortly after returning. Further, on 2 September 1880, Jacob Potts testified that in fact he did not know whether Collins before or after enlisting, and was actually in Ohio for three years beginning Spring 1863; while the signature on his affidavit before Corkhill is his, the statement wasn't read to him or written in his presence, and 'at a time affiant was out of the house cutting some wood he requiested affiant to sign it and he done so the signature Jacob Potts is his[;] that affiant was very anxious to be rid of him at the time [two illegible words] putting him out of the house ... he was intoxicated'. [source: 17]
On 20 May 1875, the Pension Office's Medical Division apparently recommended dropping Barbara Collins. The Special Services Division rated Corkhill's investigation 'Fair', which was the intermediate possibility, between 'Thorough' and 'Insufficient'. [sources: 17]
And on 1 June 1875, the Pension Office instructed the pension agent to drop Barbara Collins, because the 'soldier did not die of disease contracted in the service'. They notified Barbara Collins on 31 May 1875, and sent a letter to W C Smith on 22 June 1875. [sources: 17]
On 1 May 1879, the Pension Office sent Barbara Collins a letter. [sources: 17]
On 14 March 1880, Barbara Collins applied for readmission to the pension rolls, claiming:
That she was dropped from the pension rolls for some reason which to her was unknown, That she has no knowledge of any proposed or [illegible] investigation; that she was never notified that an investigation was proposed or intended and that without any knowledge or information on her part she is informed that a report was made to the pension department containing a certain statement of facts upon which the Commissioner of Pensions ordered that her name be stricken from the rolls, That from the information she has received as to the report or the alleged investigation and the statements made in said report, she is led to believe that the statement of facts made in said report are false, and that parties made affiants under a misapprehension and without knowing the contents of the papers to which they were sworn; That she now has in her possession a letter from one Jacob Potts in which he denies having made any affidavit and declares that the Agent who appeared to be investigating the matter interrogated him on the subject and that he told him he knew nothing of the matter; That Potts stated the same facts to affiant verbally and further told your affiant that the agent at the time was intoxicated[.]
She offered to provide 'abundant testimony' supporting her claims. [source: 17]
On 14 May 1880, in response to Barbara Collins' letter, someone at the Pension Office wrote:
It is alleged + I fear it may be true that the investigation in this case may not have been entirely fare [sic]. Please examine the papers and inform John M Coffrith [??] H + R whether another investigation should not be had - + tell me what you think
[source: 17]
Special Agent M E Jenks was sent to investigate. On 21-23 September 1880, he interviewed many witnesses: Lewis M Smith (I), Leonard S Tewell, Barbara Collins, Jacob Potts, David Tewell, Mary Tewell, Zack A Shaffer, John Johnson, Elijah Collins, Susannah Morse, Israel Bennet, Isaac Collins, and Dr Thomas P Robosson. Rather than summarize each bit of evidence, I will quote Jenk's thoughts:
I called at the residence of Dr Robisson Sept 21 on my way from Cumberland to the residence of claimant[.] I was informed he was from home. The claimant asked me if I had seen the Dr[.] I told her no, would call on him on my return to Cumberland. When I visited the Dr residence [sic] again Sept 23 I found him in Conversation with Daniel Tewell a near neighbour of claimant (Ev herewith)[.] Immediately after I entered the Drs [sic] house Mr Tewell instructed him to step out with him a moment[.] After an absence of about 15 minutes the Dr returned[.] I then stated the nature of my business to the Dr. He was in no manner surprised said he could not state anything different from his affidavit filed in the claim[.] had I that affidavit. I did not have said affidavit with me, and answered no. He then desired to see his affidavit before Mr Corkhill. I allowed him to read the same. He said yes that was all true but, he further told Mr Corkhill, that all his knowledge of the facts in the case was expressed in his former affidavit. I asked him if he would re-affirm his testimony before Mr Corkhill, he said yes. I wrote an affidavit to that effect, but he declined to sign it and said he preferred writing his own statement. I found the Dr a pleasant agreeable gentleman[.] I have no evidence that Mr Tewell spoke to him relative to Mrs Collins [sic] claim. I however mention the facts.'
...
In justice to Mr Corkhill I would say I am of the opinion he made an honest investigation. If the evidence filed by him is untrue it is the fault of the witnesses. With the exception of Jacob Potts such witnesses as I saw reaffirm their testimony. And they made substantially the same statements before I read their testimony to them[.] In reference to Mr Potts I would state he volunteered the information that Mr Corkhill staid [sic] all night in his house[.] I mention the fact to show his statement herewith is somewhat inconsistant.
Eliza Collins the mother of the soldier died quite recently[.] I made an earnest effort to procure the evidence of James Collins Mr Bowman with whom he recently made his home told me had gone to Bedford[,] that although he expected him back his return was indefinate [sic]. For some slight reasons that came to my notice I suspected he was kept out of the way intentionally.
I soon learned after arriving at Chaneysville the investigation would be troublesome and unsatisfactory as the matter had been much talked of and that persons who knew all the facts would not testify
Amos Collins the soldiers [sic] uncle always lived near him said he could not testify in the claim knew nothing of the condition of his health prior to enlistment or subsequent to service[.] knew nothing of his death or the cause thereof.
Ex Sheriff Lashly Abner Tewell Thomas Tewell + Moses Tewell knew just as much as Amos Collins. they could not testify. they all lived near the soldier
The country in the vicinity of the late residence of the soldier is thinly settled[.] I was assured by Isaac M Bennet very few of the original settlers now lived in the vicinity[.] There is much ill feeling between claimant + her family, and the Collins family. The same being the result of a law suit in the settlement of an estate
I saw such witnesses as the claimant desired[;] told her that the evidence was against her. She desired me to see Daniel Tewell, Mr Schaeffer Jacob Potts Isaac M Bennett + Dr Robisson[] She also hoped the testimony of Abraham, David and Phillip Ritchey now residing near Sullivan "Moultrey" Co Illinois would be obtained as they lived near the soldier for years. I have no doubt they will be notified
I do not think I have had a fair chance in this investigation[.] I do not think some of claimants [sic] friends and advisers have acted wisely[.] I have obtained the best evidence I could under the circumstances[.] I would state I have no positive evidence of any unfair or improper action on the part of the claimant or her friends. at the same time I have an opinion in the matter that is unfavorable to fair dealings[.]
I would mention when I called at the house of Elijah Collins he remarked I expected to see you today. As a man called at my house last night and tried to "pump" me about what testimony I would give in case any one called to see me in relation to Barbara Collins [sic] claim.
Isaac Collins said he knew an agent was in the neighbourhood. These persons live in isolated localities. that is some distance from the claimaint: The distance is not so great but two mountains has [sic] to be crossed the roads are [illegible]'
The Special Services Division rated Jenks' investigation 'fair', and noted: 'In view of the Agent's effort in the case a fair rating is given'. [sources: 17, 24, 25]
Despite Jenks' skepticism, on 22 November 1880, someone recommended restoring Barabara Collins' pension. And she was readmitted 22 November 1880, and received a pension of $8 per month, plus $2 per month for each child under 16, retroactive to 4 March 1875. [source: 17]
In 1880, his widow, Barbara Collins, was living in Southampton Township, Bedford County, Pennsylvania. She was living with Mary Tewell, and with her children Francis, Ester, and John. [source: 12]
Beginning 19 March 1886, Barbara Collins received a pension of $12 per month. The certificate was dated 1 May 1886. [source: 18]
In 1890, his widow, Barbara Collins, was living in Southampton Township, Bedford County, Pennsylvania. She was receiving a pension. [source: 5]
In 1900, his widow, Barbara Collins, was living in Southampton Township, Bedford County, Pennsylvania. She was living with her son John and his family. [source: 13]
In 1910, his widow, Barbara Collins, was living in Southampton Township, Bedford County, Pennsylvania. She was living with her son John and his family. [source: 14]
On 26 September 1915, his widow Barbara Tewell, died, in Southampton, Bedford County, Pennsylvania. She died of chronic interstitial nephritis, which she had had for three years. On 28 September 1915, she was buried, in Mt Zion Cemetery, Southampton Township, Bedford County, Pennsylvania. [sources: 7, 8, 17, 18, 19, 20]
On 13 October 1915, their son J G Collins sent a letter to the Pension Office, asking that the pension due her be sent to him, to pay off a $50 doctor bill for her. On 20 October 1915, the Pension Office sent a reimbursement blank to J G Collins. The pension certificate file does not refer further to a reimbursement request from him. [source: 17]
1 Bates, Samuel Penniman. History of Pennsylvania volunteers, 1861-5. Harrisburg: B. Singerly, state printer, 1869-71. 5 volumes. 'Ninety-first regiment', volume 3, pages 186-233. (In the roster) (Isaiah Collins)
2 message, from David and Carol Eddleman, 24 October 2002, on PABEDFOR list at RootsWeb, transcribing burial list from the Bedford Inquirer, 22 May 1908 (Isaiah Collins)
3 company F, register of men discharged (Isaah [?] Collins)
4 company F, second descriptive roll, #33 (Isaac [sic] Collins)
5 1890 US census, veterans' schedule, Pennsylvania, Bedford County, Southampton Township, supervisor's district 7, enumeration district 89, page 1 (Isaiah Collins)
6 pension index, by regiment, 91st PA Infantry, company F (Isaiah Collins)
7 'Michael S Caldwell's genealogy database as of 23 January 2011', a gedcom, available on RootsWeb WorldConnect, contact Michael, last updated 23 January 2011, accessed 5 February 2011 [citing James Smith Esq. 1760-1861 of Bedford County Pennsylvania and his descendants] (Isaiah Collins)
8 Find a grave, memorial 16835480, created by Kat, added 29 November 2006, accessed 5 February 2011 (Isaiah Collins)
9 1850 US census, Pennsylvania, Bedford County, Southampton Township, microfilm series M432, film 751, page 150 verso = 300 handwritten (Isaiah Collins)
10 1860 US census, Pennsylvania, Bedford County, Southampton Township, post office Ebbensville, microfilm series M653, film 1072, page 548 = 8 handwritten (Isah [sic] Collins)
11 1870 US census, Pennsylvania, Bedford County, Southampton Township, post office Chaneysville, microfilm series M593, film 1304, page 626 = 17 handwritten (Barbary Collins)
12 1880 US census, Pennsylvania, Bedford County, Southampton Township, supervisor's district 8, enumeration district 236, microfilm series T9, film 1098, page 335 = 23 C handwritten (Barbara Collins)
13 1900 US census, Pennsylvania, Bedford County, Southampton Township, supervisor's district 13, enumeration district 31, microfilm series T623, film 1376, page 161 = 10 A handwritten (Barbara Collins)
14 1910 US census, Pennsylvania, Bedford County, Southampton Township #3, supervisor's district 16, enumeration district 28, microfilm series T624, film 1312, page 3 = 3 A handwritten (Barbara Collins)
15 pension index, by name (Isaiah Collins)
16 index to compiled service records of volunteer Union soldiers who served in organizations from the state of Pennsylvania (Isaiah Collins)
17 abstract of widow's pension certificate file, National Archives and Records Administration, record group 15, WC 143,246 (Barbara Tewell widow of Isaiah Collins)
18 US Veterans Administration pension payment cards (Barbara Collins widow of Isaiah Collins)
19 'Isaiah Collins', in Hutchinson family tree (an Ancestry family tree), owner huguette23, accessed 1 Jan 2015 [this tree includes photos of Isaiah Collins and of Barbara Collins] (Isaiah Collins)
20 death certificate, Bedford County Pennsylvania, file 92623, 26 September 1915 (Barbara Collins)
21 letter, P.M. to Commissioner, Pension Office, 27 December 1869
22 M Corkhill, report of investigation, undated, but probably April-May 1875 (Isiah Collins)
23 Lewis M Smith, testimony, 21 September 1880 (Isaiah Collins)
24 statement by M E Jenks [about Dr Robosson], 23 (?) September 1880
25 statement by M E Jenks, 23 (?) September 1880 (Isiah Collins)
| line | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 |
| Dwellings visited | 109 | |||||||
| Families visited | 109 | |||||||
| Name | Andrew Collins | Eliza " | James " | Sarah " | Martha " | Isaiah " | John " | Elijah " |
| Age | 45 | 38 | 18 | 16 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 2 |
| Sex | m | f | m | f | f | m | m | m |
| Color | ||||||||
| Occupation of males over 15 years | Farmer | " | ||||||
| Real estate owned | 1500 | |||||||
| Birthplace | " [sc. Penna] | " | " | " | " | " | " | " |
| Married within year | ||||||||
| Attended school within year | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | ||||
| Over 20 & can't read/write | ||||||||
| Deaf, dumb, blind, etc. |
| line | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 |
| Dwelling number | 549 | |||||||
| Family number | 522 | |||||||
| Name | Eliza Collins | James " | Sarah " | Martha " | Isah [sic] " | John " | Elijah " | Samuel Jos " |
| Age | 50 | 26 | 24 | 22 | 20 | 18 | 11 | 8 |
| Sex | f | m | f | f | m | m | m | m |
| Color | ||||||||
| Occupation | Farm Lab | Serving | " | Farm Lab | " " | |||
| Value of real estate owned | 1000 | |||||||
| Value of personal estate | 500 | |||||||
| Place of birth | Md | Penna | " | " | " | " | " | " |
| Married within year | ||||||||
| Attended school within year | 1 | 1 | ||||||
| Cannot read & write | ||||||||
| Deaf, dumb, blind, etc. |
| line | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | 32 | 33 |
| Dwelling-house number | 127 | |||||
| Family number | 127 | |||||
| Name | Collins Barbary [sic] | - Francis F | - Ester | - John W. G. | Johnson Mary | Leasure Tommy |
| Age | 32 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 69 | 15 |
| Sex | F | F | F | M | F | M |
| Color | W | W | W | W | W | W |
| Occupation | House Keeping | At Home | At Home | At Home | Living with Brother | Working on Farm |
| Real estate value | 500 | |||||
| Personal estate value | 100 | |||||
| Birthplace | Pa | Pa | Pa | Pa | Pa | Pa |
| Father foreign born | ||||||
| Mother foreign born | ||||||
| Birth month if born within year | ||||||
| Marriage month if married within year | ||||||
| Attended school past year | 1 | 1 | ||||
| Can't read | ||||||
| Can't write | ||||||
| Deaf, dumb, blind, etc. | ||||||
| Male US citizen at least 21 years old | ||||||
| Male US citizen at least 21 years old who can't vote ... |
| line | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
| street name | |||||
| house number | |||||
| dwelling visit # | |||||
| family visit # | 192 | ||||
| name | Tewell Mary | Collins Barbara | - Francis | - Ester | - John W. |
| color | W | W | W | W | W |
| sex | F | F | M | F | M |
| age | 66 | 42 | 17 | 15 | 13 |
| month born if born in year | |||||
| relationship | Son | Daughter | Son | ||
| single | 1 | 1 | 1 | ||
| married | |||||
| widowed/divorced | 1 | 1 | |||
| married during year | |||||
| occupation | Keeping house | At home | Farm laborer | At home | Work on farm |
| months unemployed | |||||
| currently ill? | |||||
| blind | |||||
| deaf/dumb | |||||
| idiotic | |||||
| insane | |||||
| disabled | |||||
| school this year | 1 | 1 | |||
| can't read | 1 | ||||
| can't write | 1 | ||||
| birthplace | Pa | Pa | Pa | Pa | Pa |
| father's birthplace | Pa | Pa | Pa | Pa | Pa |
| mother's birthplace | Pa | Pa | Pa | Pa | Pa |
| line | 30 | 31 | 32 | 33 | 34 |
| street | |||||
| house number | |||||
| dwelling number | 169 | ||||
| family number | 173 | ||||
| name | Collins John G. | - Agnes H. | - McKinley | - Sylva M | - Barbara |
| relationship | Head | Wife | Son | Daughter | Mother |
| color | W | W | W | W | W |
| sex | M | F | M | F | F |
| birth date | Oct 1866 | Sept 1868 [?] | Mar 1895 | Apr 1899 | Sept 1837 |
| age | 33 | 31 | 5 | 1 | 62 |
| married? | M | M | S | S | Wd |
| # years married | 6 | 6 | |||
| mother of how many children? | 3 | 0 | |||
| # of children living | 2 | 0 | |||
| birthplace | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania |
| father's birthplace | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania |
| mother's birthplace | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania |
| immigration year | |||||
| # years in USA | |||||
| naturalized citizen? | |||||
| occupation | Farmer | ||||
| # months not employed | 0 | ||||
| # months in school | |||||
| can read | yes | yes | yes | ||
| can write | yes | yes | yes | ||
| speaks English | yes | yes | yes | ||
| owned/rented | O | ||||
| free or mortgaged | F | ||||
| farm/house | F | ||||
| # of farm schedule | 113 |
| line | 46 | 47 | 48 | 49 | 50 |
| street | |||||
| house nr | |||||
| dwelling nr | 48 | ||||
| family nr | 48 | ||||
| name | Collins, John W. | - [illegible; may be 'Obelena A.'] | - , McKinley | - Sylva M. | - Barbara |
| relationship | Head | Wife | Son | Daughter | Mother |
| sex | M | F | M | F | F |
| color | W | W | W | W | W |
| age | 42 | 40 | 15 | 10 | 72 |
| marital status | M1 | M1 | S | S | Wd |
| #years present marriage | 16 | 16 | |||
| mother of # children | 3 | ||||
| mother of # living children | 2 | ||||
| birthplace | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania |
| father's birthplace | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania |
| mother's birthplace | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania |
| immigrated | |||||
| naturalized/alien | |||||
| speaks English | English | English | English | English | English |
| occupation | Farmer | None | Farm Laborer | None | None |
| nature of industry etc. | Home farm | Home farm | |||
| employer etc. | Emp | W | |||
| out of work 15 Apr 1910? | |||||
| # weeks out of work 1909 | |||||
| can read | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes |
| can write | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes |
| school since 1 Sep 09 | yes | yes | |||
| owned/rented | R | ||||
| owned free or mortagaged | |||||
| farm/house | H | ||||
| nr on farm schedule | 32 | ||||
| civil war vet | |||||
| blind | |||||
| deaf & dumb |
Sir
I can not [sic] say but little in regard to Smith[.] he does not live close my [sic] place. It is reported by his neghbors [sic] that he draws a pension on account of blindness and it is said that it is only a pretence, and that he only does so in order to draw his pension[.] how it is I cannot say. I am aware that he is a considerable Rebel to his Government.
There is an application depending [sic] for Pension through J R Durborry [?] of Bedford Pa. for a pension for Barbary [sic] Collins Widow of Isaiah Collins a private in the 91st Pa Vols. She is not entitled to any Pension. her husband taken [sic] sick and died a considerable time after he was home discharged out of the army and his mother and Brothers say he was stouter after his return from the army than ever before, and he said so himself and done larger days work [sic]. If you write his mother Eliza Collins - His Brother James Collins they will vouch to [sic] these facts and they have threatened to write the Pension Office about it. they say his widow is not entitled to any Pension. The widow lives at Home with her father and her three children and her father is in good circumstances. In fact think [sic] he is the wealthiest man in the County and is him [sic] that is trying to get the pension. I do not write the above out of any Ill feelings towards any of the parties, but it would be an outrageous thing If she was [sic] to receive a pension. I could write you the character of the witnesses or [sic] a heart of stone, but will write no more. please do not Expose me about this matter. I have wrote [?] you facts for your Guidance, and I can bring the Whole Community to substanciate [sic] that there never ought any [sic] Pension to be granted in this Case.
P.M.In justice to Mr Corkhill I would say I am of the opinion he made an honest investigation. If the evidence filed by him is untrue it is the fault of the witnesses. With the exception of Jacob Potts such witnesses as I saw reaffirm their testimony. And they made substantially the same statements before I read their testimony to them[.] In reference to Mr Potts I would state he volunteered the information that Mr Corkhill staid [sic] all night in his house[.] I mention the fact to show his statement herewith is somewhat inconsistant.
Eliza Collins the mother of the soldier died quite recently[.] I made an earnest effort to procure the evidence of James Collins Mr Bowman with whom he recently made his home told me had gone to Bedford[,] that although he expected him back his return was indefinate [sic]. For some slight reasons that came to my notice I suspected he was kept out of the way intentionally.
I soon learned after arriving at Chaneysville the investigation would be troublesome and unsatisfactory as the matter had been much talked of and that persons who knew all the facts would not testify
Amos Collins the soldiers [sic] uncle always lived near him said he could not testify in the claim knew nothing of the condition of his health prior to enlistment or subsequent to service[.] knew nothing of his death or the cause thereof.
Ex Sheriff Lashly Abner Tewell Thomas Tewell + Moses Tewell knew just as much as Amos Collins. they could not testify. they all lived near the soldier
The country in the vicinity of the late residence of the soldier is thinly settled[.] I was assured by Isaac M Bennet very few of the original settlers now lived in the vicinity[.] There is much ill feeling between claimant + her family, and the Collins family. The same being the result of a law suit in the settlement of an estate
I saw such witnesses as the claimant desired[;] told her that the evidence was against her. She desired me to see Daniel Tewell, Mr Schaeffer Jacob Potts Isaac M Bennett + Dr Robisson[] She also hoped the testimony of Abraham, David and Phillip Ritchey now residing near Sullivan "Moultrey" CCo Illinois would be obtained as they lived near the soldier for years. I have no doubt they will be notified
I do not think I have had a fair chance in this investigation[.] I do not think some of claimants [sic] friends and advisers have acted wisely[.] I have obtained the best evidence I could under the circumstances[.] I would state I have no positive evidence of any unfair or improper action on the part of the claimant or her friends. at the same time I have an opinion in the matter that is unfavorable to fair dealings[.]
I would mention when I called at the house of Elijah Collins he remarked I expected to see you today. As a man called at my house last night and tried to "pump" me about what testimony I would give in case any one called to see me in relation to Barbara Collins [sic] claim.
Isaac Collins said he knew an agent was in the neighbourhood. These persons live in isolated localities. that is some distance from the claimaint: The distance is not so great but two mountains has [sic] to be crossed the roads are [illegible]'
I have the honor most respectfully to submit the following report of my investigation of the above case[.] Isiah [sic] Collins the husband of Pensioner was mustered as a prv. of Co. F 91st Reg Pa Vols on 21st Sept. 1864 for one year. Generally mustered out on May 30 1865 "No evidence of Disability"[.] The widow in her application for pension filed 16th August 1869 declares among other things that her Husband Isiah Collins died on or about the 8th day February 1867 of Chronic Diarrhea contracted in the line of duty in the service of the United States.
There is but little evidence on file in support of this claim. Thomas Hymes swears on the 26th August 1869 "That he accompanied the said Collins to Chambersburg when he was Drafted[.] On the way Collins told him that he was a sound healthy man and would be compelled to go as he had no claim for exemption" Isaac W Smith swears 24th August 1869. That Soldier was a sound healthy man before he entered the service[.] That he and soldier were sent to the 5th Corps Hospital at City Point Va. were then removed to Soldiers rest in same place where they remained until about the 14th April 1865 when they joined their command + remained with it until discharge. That said Collins appeared to be really suffering more or less from Diarrhea up to the date of their discharge"[.] Thomas P Robasson has two sworn statements on file on 20th Feb 1869 declares that he attended the soldier in his Last Illness[.] That shortly after his discharge from the U.S. Service he died of Lung disease + Diarrhea which he undoubtedly contracted in the service of the U.S. his next statement date 14th May 1870 A short time after the return of said Collins from the service he was called to see him the said Collins. found him labouring under Chronic Diarrhea and incipient Phthisis of which disease he died
John Johnson + Abner Tewell swear August 26th 1869 that they saw Soldier after his death and that they attended his funeral. That is the amount of the Evidence on file in support of the claim.
The attention of the Hon Com is now called to the testimony of such witnesses as have been examined by the Agent. The most important of which is that of the Mother + Brother of the soldier. Jacob Potts knew but little in refference [sic] to the case. Exhibit A. Miss Maize has know [sic] the family a long time. says the soldier called frequently at her house to see a sick [illegible] Thought soldier in as good health after his return from the Army as he had been before see Exhibit B. Eliza + James Collins mother + Brother of soldier declare that soldier returned home about the 9th June 1865 that he was then in as good health as he had ever been. at different time [sic] declared that the Army serivce had improved his health. say soldier made a full hand [?] in all kinds of hearvest [sic] work without a murmur of a days [sic] sickness. health continued good until the month of Oct 1866 when he complained of pains in Breast + shoulder[.] declare his first Medical treatment to have been in Nov. 1866. and Death to have occurred 8th Feb 1867. See Exhibit C
Elijah Collins Brother of Soldier says he regarded soldier as in better health after his return from the serv. than it had been before, made a full hand all through hearvest [sic][.] says the soldier was not unwell until about the month of Novem 1866. at which time he called upon Dr Robasson [?] for Medicine + advice see Exhibit D
Isaac Collins declares that soldier told him that his health was as good + that he felt as stout as he ever did in his Life. this conversation occurred in August 1865 - see Exhibit E
Thomas P Robasson MD can not say much about the case. has no record of his services see Exhibit F
From the Testimony herewith presented it is clear to the mind of your Agent that the soldier did not die of any disease contracted in the U.S. Service. according to the Testimony of the Mother + two Brothers of the soldier he arrived at home about the 9th Jun 1865. was not a day sick until about the month of Oct. or Nov. 1866. at least 18 months after his discharge from the service Dr Robasson says he attended the soldier in his last illness. "That said Collins shortly after his discharge from the US as a soldier died." the Dr in his second statement says A short time after his discharge he was called to see him. found him suffering[.] some idea of what the Dr. means by the word "shortly" may be seen when it is remembered [?] that the soldier did not die until about twenty months after his discharge + yet the Dr says "he died shortly after discharge". Your Agent took no testimony in refference [sic] to the ages of children[.] was not instructed to do so. in fact i did not deem this necessary. It is the opinon of the Agent. that Isaiah Collins. Prv Co F. 91 Regt Pa Vols. did not die of any disease contracted while in the US Service. and therefore recommends [sic[ that the name of Barbara Collins be Dropped from the Pension Rolls
I am sir| CLASS. | RATE. | DATE OF COMENCEMENT. | DATE OF CERTIFICATE. |
| 12 | 19 Mar 1886 | 1 May 1886 |