Jacob Alexander Robbins and Matilda Lucinda Goldsmith

Jacob Alexander Robbins was the son of Jonathan Robbins and Mary Masagee or Massingale.  He was born 28 November 1824 in Randolph County, North Carolina.  He died 26 April 1867 at his home in Jackson County, Kentucky, of fever brought on by liver and kidney ailments that he felt were the result of his Civil War service. Jacob served as a Private in Co. A, of the 47th KY infantry Volunteers.  Jacob Alexander's Civil War application for a pension based on disabilities was rejected.  (See complete copy of J.A. Robbins pension papers at the bottom of this page.)  I don't believe Jacob Alexander ever went by the name Jacob, he either used Alex, or J.A. Robbins.  In family records, I have most commonly seem him listed as J.A. Robbins, and sometimes even A. J. Robbins.  Although I knew the A. stood for Alexander, it wasn't until I got his Civil War pension papers that I discovered his first name was Jacob.  I have seen Jacob Alexander mistakenly referred to as Jason.  Jacob Alexander Robbins married Matilda Lucinda Goldsmith on 12 October 1841 at the home of her brother, William Goldsmith in Buncombe County, North Carolina.

According to her Civil War pension deposition, Matilda and Jacob Alexander had 13 children, four of whom were still born, one who predeceased her husband, (James Wilburn who died 1862) and eight who were alive when her husband died.

Children of Jacob Alexander Robbins and Matilda Lucinda Goldsmith

1. Sarah Adeline Robbins was born 8 August 1842 in Buncombe, North Carolina. She married Menitree Turner 23 June 1859 in McKee, Jackson, KY. Menitree was born in Perry County. KY in about 1839 to John C. Turner and Mary Pennington.(1850 Owsley pg. 284, 101/101)  He served in Co. C. 7th KY Infantry from 19 August 1861 until 24 February 1864. He re-enlisted as a veteran and served in Co. D of the same regiment until 11 March 1866.  He was discharged at Baton Rouge, LA.  During the February 1872 term of the Jackson County Court, Minatree Turner was appointed committee for Matilda L. Robbins.  Sarah died 23 February 1883 in Jackson County.

2. James Wilburn Robbins was born in 1845 in Buncombe County, North Carolina. He was underage when he enlisted at London, KY on the 1^st day of November 1861 as a private in Company A, 24 KY Infantry Volunteers, commanded by Col Grigsby Hurt. He died on the 23^rd day of February 1862, after contracting measles during his service.  James never married. Matilda Goldsmith Robbins eventually received a pension benefit based on her son's military service.  

3. Lemuel Turner Robbins was born 30 September 1847 most likely in Clay County, KY. He married Rachael Turner on 23 Nov 1865. Rachael was a sister to Menitree Turner, and a daughter of John C. Turner and Mary Pennington. (1850 Owsley, pg. 284, 101/101).   In Rachael's deposition of 10 October 1888, (for her mother-in-law's pension application) she said that she had not lived with Lemuel for 15 years. In Matilda Robbins' deposition of 4 October 1888, she said she didn't know if Lemuel were alive or dead. In his aunt's deposition for her widow's pension, (Abigail Ball) she stated that Lemuel was with her husband Addison when he was hurt during the war, but she doesn't know where Lemuel is now because he "took off for parts unknown."

Rachel Turner was a widow when she married Lemuel Robbins.  She had previously married Hiram Casteel on 3 March 1859 in Jackson County. Rachel and Hiram appear on the 1860 census of Jackson County (p. 847, 49/49.)  Hiram was born about 1838, the son of John Casteel and his first wife Nancy Black.  He was enrolled as a Private in Co. C of the 7th KY Infantry of the Union Army on 19 August 1861 at London, Kentucky, when he was 23 years old.  He was demoted from Sgt to Pvt on the 28th of February 1862 "on account of ill health." but he appeared to have been "Present from Muster (22 September 1861) 'til death."  He died of measles 26 June 1863 at Black River Bridge in Mississippi. 

4. Jonathan Goldsmith Robbins was born 24 November 1849 in Clay County, KY. He married Margaret Gabbard 11 February 1873 in Jackson County, KY. He died 14 March 1877 in Jackson County, KY.

5. Wiley Marion Robbins was born 5 October 1851 in Clay County, KY. He married Mary E. Miracle about 1872.

6. Mary Elizabeth Robbins was born 5 October1853, in Clay County, KY. This date is not a mistake, according to Lucinda's pension application Mary and Wiley were both born on the 5^th of October, but two years apart.  Mary Elizabeth married Isaac Isaacs, son of Andrew Isaacs and Lucinda Carpenter on 16 January 1869, in McKee, Jackson Coutny, KY. Mary died 10 September 1896 in Delany, Madison County, Arkansas, giving birth to twins. The first twin, Mary Elizabeth was born alive, but the second twin, an unnamed female, died. Isaac Isaacs died 6 July 1930 in Oklahoma.

8. Nancy Jane Robbins was born 30 May 1859 in Jackson County, KY. She married William A. Baldwin on 25 January 1875 in Jackson.

9. William Alexander Robbins was born 17 March 1864 in Jackson County, KY.

Civil War Pension Applications of Jacob Alexander Robbins and Matilda Lucinda Goldsmith Robbins

To all whom it may Concern:

Know ye, that Jacob A. Robbins, Private of Captain John Pennington's Company (A) 47^th, Regiment of Kentucky Infantry Volunteers who was enrolled on the twenty eighth day of July, One Thousand Eight Hundred and Sixty Three to serve one year(s) or during the war, is hereby Discharged from the service of the United States this twentieth day of December, 1864, at Lexington, Kentucky by reason of expiration of term of service. (No objection to his being re-enlisted is known to exist.)

Said Jacob A. Robbins was born in Randolph County in the State of N.C. is Thirty Eight years of age, five feet ten inches high, Dark Complexion, Black eyes, Black hair and by occupation when enrolled, a farmer.

Given at Lexington, KY this, twentieth day of December, 1864.

Signed: J.C. Henderson, Maj 24, KY Inf.

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

On this 2^nd day of February 1869, personally appeared before me a clerk of a County of Record in and for the County and State aforesaid: Matilda L. Robbins, resident of Pond Creek in the County of Jackson and State of Kentucky aged 44 years, who being duly sworn, makes the following declaration in order to obtain the Pension provided by the Act of Congress approved July 14, 1862. That she is a widow of Jacob A. Robbins who was a private in Company A, commanded by John Penington in the 47^th Regiment of Kentucky Inft in the War of 1861 that her maiden name was Matilda L. Goldsmith and that she was married to said Jacob A. Robbins on or about the 12^th day of October 1842 at William Goldsmiths in the County of Buncombe in the State of North Carolina by Robert Paterson, Preacher, and that she knows of no record evidence of said marriage that she has been informed that the records was destroyed in time of the war that the preacher is gone distracted, but she can prove the marriage by eye witnesses.

She further declares that said Jacob A. Robbins her husband died at home in the state of Kentucky on or about the 26^th day of April 1867 of fever brought on from a disease in his side contracted in the service and in the line of duty. She also declares that she has remained a widow ever since the death of said Jacob A. Robbins and that she has not in any manner been engaged in or aided or abetted the rebellion of the United States and she hereby appoints M. C. Hughs of Green Hall, Kentucky as her lawful Attorney, with power of substitution and authorizes him to present and prosecute this claim and to receive her pension certificates. The following are the names and dates of birth and place of residence of all the children of her deceased husband who were under sixteen years of age at the time of his death: Wiley M. Robbins was born October 5^th 1851, Mary L. Robbins was born October 5^th, 1853, John H. Robbins was born September 13, 1855, Nancy Jane was born May 30^th 1859, William A. was born March 17^th 1864.

My Post Office address is Green Hall, Kentucky

Matilda L. Robbins

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

On this 15^th day of May, 1869, personally appeared Mrs. Matilda L. Robbins a resident of Jackson County, KY a person whom I certify to be respectable and entitled to credit and being sworn says that she is the applicant for Pension No. 172,712 as widow of Jacob A. Robbins who was private in Co. A, 27^th, Reg of KY Vols and who died 26^th day of April 1867, and that she had left her by her deceased husband the following named children under 16 years of age at his death,

to wit:

Wiley M. Robbins was born October 5^th 1851

Mary E. Robbins was born October 5^th 1853

John H. Robbins was born September 13, 1855

Nancy Jane was born May 30^th 1859

William A. was born March 17^th 1864

that these are the only legitimate children left her by her husband that there was no former marriage by either, that she has not remarried but continues his widow. That she believes she will not be able to prove her marriage by record evidence having been informed that the clerk’s office in county where done was burned up in time of the war, and that the preacher who married them had become insane, that she has not abandoned any of her children nor suffered any of them to be adopted by any other person as their child or children.

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

On this 25^th day of May 1869, personally appeared Mrs. Elizabeth Truett and Nancy Arnold, respectable citizens of Jackson County KY whose statements I hereby certify are entitled to full faith and credit and being duly sworn as the law requires says that they are and have been for many years acquainted with Mrs. Matilda Lucinda Robbins and with Jacob A. her husband, and know that they lived together as husband and wife and was so recognized by all the community where known that the following are the names and date of birth of their children under 16 at the death of their father Jacob A. Robbins, to wit, Wiley M born October 5^th, 1851, Mary E born October 5^th 1853, John H. born September 13^th 1855, Nancy Jane born May 30^th 1859, William A. born March 17^th 1864 and that the date of birth is correct as they believe they being present at the times nurses or helps living close neighbors that they are the only legitimate children left by this soldier., that the widow has not remarried not abandoned any of their children nor permitted them adopted by any other person and we are not connected or interested in this claim in any way.

Elizabeth Truitt

Nancy Arnold

Wit: Sarey Isaacs, Lydia Truitt

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

On this 26^th day of May 1869, personally appeared Addison Ball and Abigail Ball respectable residents of Jackson County KY whose statements I hereby certify are entitled to full faith and credit and being duly sworn as the law requires says that they upon their oath that they were present and saw Jacob A. Robbins and Matilda Lucinda Goldsmith, married on about the 12^th day of October 1841. That they were lawfully married lived together as man and wife up to his death 26 April 1867 never heard their marriage disputed had several children about 5 under 16 years of age at the death of their father these 5 are their only legitimate children left by this soldier or his widow. There being no former marriage his widow Matilda L. has not remarried since the death of her husband nor has she abandoned their children nor suffered any of them to be adopted by any other person as his her or their child, they further state that they know of no public record of marriage and that report say the clerk office and papers were destroyed in time of the war of 1861 and that the man that married them has gone distracted and perhaps dead and no other know who was present i.e. in this county that they have no interest in this claim for pension.

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

On this 15^th day of November, 1869, before me John Farmer, Clerk within and for the County and State aforesaid, personally appeared Matilda L. Robbins, who being by me first duly sworn and on oath declares that she is now applicant no. 172,712 for Widow’s pension which application is still pending. That the name of her child is Mary E. not Mary L. and it written Mary L, it was so written by _________and error as it is Mary E. and she is not aware of her having signed a paper in which the name of her child was written otherwise than Mary E.

Matilda L. Robbins

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

On this 1^st day of May 1871, personally appeared Dr. John Ward an eminent physician of the above named county and state and person whose statement is entitled to full faith and credit and being sworn deposed and sayeth, that for 20 years before his death, he was personally acquainted with Jacob A. Robbins, whose widow is applicant for pension no 172,712.....

Goes on to discuss medical history in detail

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

On this 15^th day of June 1871, personally appeared Mrs. Elizabeth Truett and Nancy Arnold, respectable citizens of Jackson County KY whose statements I hereby certify are entitled to full faith and credit and being duly sworn as the law requires says that they have lived neighbors for over 20 years to Jacob A. Robbins and Matilda L. Robbins applicant for pension no. 172,712. That there was no former or other marriage with either party, and that they were present at the time of the births of their children whose ages is as follows and we believe true, to wit, Wiley M born October 5^th, 1851, Mary E born October 5^th 1853, John H. born September 13^th 1855, Nancy Jane born May 30^th 1859, William A. born March 17^th 1864 these are the only legitimate children left by this soldier, that the widow has not remarried since his death, nor has she abandoned any of their children nor permitted them adopted by any other person and we are not connected or interested in this claim in any way.

Elizabeth Truitt

Nancy Arnold

Proof As To Service

Proof As To Death  The Adjutant General U.S.A. reports the military history of the soldier as follows: Jacob A. Robbins dates of enlistment muster and discharge as on preceding page - On the Muster Out Roll of Co. dated December 26, 1864, he is reported a Private, Mustered out with Company on that date without demark. No evidence of disability.

Date of filing: Surgeon General reports "No information in the case from the records of Nicholasville and Ch. Nelson, KY. John Penington, late Capt. (Service verified, July 6, 1869, Dec 8^th, 1869, May 28, 1877) Soldier performed his duty until about July 1864 when he was taken sick at Nicholasville, KY, was placed in a meeting house at that point used as a hospital and was attended by a citizen doctor. He had some kind of fever, and was very low, but finely (sic) recovered a little but complained of a pain in his side occasionally from that time to his death.

Dr. Farris, 6 July 1869

Testifies soldier died of enlargement of the liver (permanent) was called to visit him soon after his discharge and found his health destroyed. Was a sound healthy man before he enlisted.

Dr. John Ward – Aug 4, 1876, July 8, 1871, Oct 4, 1875, July 18, 1876, Mar 20, 1876, Aug 7, 1876, Sept 20, 1876

Testified that the soldier died 26 April 1867 of disease of the liver. After his return from the service affidant visited him found him diseased with a pain in the side about the liver and treated him occasionally until his death. Visited the soldier on or about January 1, 1875, was not present when he died. Treated him to within a few days of his death. Dr. Ward in affidavit filed Oct 4, 1875, states that he believes that the immediate cause of his death was disease of the kidney and ____ of the bladder: The Dr. is affidavit filed Sept 20 1876 stated that the pathological connection between the disease of the soldier and the disease of the Kidneys of which he describes as follows: The soldier had an attack of hep___ and hypertrophy of the liver and cessation of the liver functions, the bile being carried off by the skin and kidney set up a general state of irritation and congestion of the urinary organs which terminated in the inflammation of the same of which he died.

This claim was rejected June 2, 1877.

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

On this 23^rd day of January 1880, before me John Farmer, Clerk within and for the County and State aforesaid, personally appeared Matilda L. Robbins, who being by me first duly sworn states that she is 55 years of age and the widow of Jacob A. Robbins who was a private in Co. A, 27^th, Reg of KY Vols commanded by Col. Clark in the War of 1861. That her late husband while in said service and in the line of his duty at Nickolasville, KY by hard duty and exposure contracted disease of the liver which resulted in his death which occurred after his discharge while at his home in Jackson Co. KY on the 26^th day of April 1867. She states that her husband was a sound and healthy man at the time he entered the service above normal and free from any disease. She further state that she was married to said Jacob A. Robbins in the County of Buncombe and State of North Carolina by Robert Patterson, a minister on the 12^th day of October 1841. That the following are the names and dates of birth of all of the children of her said late husband

Wiley M. Robbins born October 5^th 1851

Mary E. Robbins born October 5^th 1853

John H. Robbins born September 13, 1855

Nancy Jane born May 30^th 1859

William A. born March 17^th 1864

who were under sixteen years of age at the date of the death of her said husband. She makes this application for the purpose of obtaining the Certificate of an Act of Congress granting pensions to Widows and Minors of Soldiers of the War of 1861. She states that she has heretofore made a declaration and applied for said pension...which application was rejected on account of the time for completing the proof expiring before the claim was completed. Said claim was numbered 172,712 and is hereby referred to for any proof that may be required of her she make ___ a part of this declaration and respectfully request that it be considered. She hereby constitutes and appoints Gilmore & Co. of Washington D.C. her true and lawful attorneys to present and prosecute this claim merely revoking all powers of attorney that may have been given heretofore for a similar purpose. That her residence is in Jackson County, KY and her Post Office address is Moore’s Creek, Jackson Co. KY.

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of the pension claim of Matilda L. Robbins, widow of Jacob A. Robbins, late Co A 47^th KY . On this the 7^th day of October 1882, personally appeared....John Pennington, well know to me to be reputable and entitled to full faith as a witness.. His present age is 55 years and by occupation a farmer, his residence is Chinquapin Rough, Jackson Co.....

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of the pension claim of Matilda L. Robbins, widow of Jacob A. Robbins, late Co A 47^th KY . On this the 6^th day of February 1884, personally appeared....Matilda L. Robins, well know to me to be reputable and entitled to full faith as a witness....states the her present age is 60 years old that her present post office address is Moore’s Creek, Jackson Co. KY. That in relation to the aforesaid claim as follows: That her husband Jacob A. Robbins was a stout able bodied man previous to and up to date of enlistment July 1863 that if he had not been she would have know it that her husband was taken sick at Nicholsville, KY in July or August 1864. That on or about the first days of August 1864, he was sent home on sick furlough for 30 days said furlough was extended 30 days by Dr. James D. Foster of Laurel Co. KY under whose instructions he was treated while at home a part of the prescription was to sponge himself daily in salty water, warm she believes and was rubbed off with a course towel that after the expiration of his furlough he ordered to rejoin his regt and company to be mustered out of the united service December 1864. He was then in feeble health complaining of severe pain under his left shoulder and in his side recollects him drawing a blister on his side when he returned home about the first days of January 1865. He was very bad off, complaining of same symptoms as above stated was then treated by Dr. John Ward till sometime in the year 1866 was then treated by Dr. P. A. Faris til his death the 26^th day of April 1867, that the aforesaid Jacob A. Robbins continued to grow worse was finally bed fast about 9 months complaining all the time as above stated with misery all over him until his decease. That the affidavit - Drs Ward and Faris is now on file in the department in her claim that she is deprived of furnishing the affidavit of Dr. James D. Frost who first treated her husband for the reason that after such laps of time and the absence of records that he cannot now recollect sufficiently to make a statement that the affidavit of Capt John Penington and Comrade Jacob Gabbard is now on file.

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of the pension claim of Matilda L. Robbins, widow of Jacob A. Robbins, late Co A 47^th KY . On this the 11^th day of March 1884, personally appeared....William Dees, well know to me to be reputable and entitled to full faith as a witness.... His present age is 72 years , that his present port office address is Moores Creek, Jackson Co. KY and by occupation a farmer. He was well and personally acquainted with the aforesaid Jacob A. Robbins for the 10 years preceding his enlistment July 1863. .... The reason why he knows the above facts, he lived about one mile of said Robbins, sat up with him and visited him frequently during his sickness.

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of the pension claim of Matilda L. Robbins, widow of Jacob A. Robbins, late Co A 47^th KY . On this the 11^th day of March 1884, personally appeared J.M. Browning, etc. ....His present age is 44 and his residence Green Mt. ? Laurel Co. KY and by occupation a farmer. He was well and personally acquainted with the aforesaid Jacob A. Robbins for one or two years previous to his enlistment in July 1863..... The reason why he knows the above facts, he lived in sight of said Robbins, sat up with him and visited him frequently during his sickness.

War Department

Adjutant General’s Office

Washington April 3, 1885

No. 172.712

Respectfully returned to the Commission of Pensions Jacob A. Robbins (age 36) a private of Company A, 47^th Regiment, Kentucky is reported on roll from enlistment to Oct 31^st 1863 present. Same to Apr 30^th, 1864. (Last muster roll on file.) Regtl Return for May 1864 (last on file) does not report him absent.

Records of the District of Kentucky show a furlough granted him Nov 23^rd 1864 for 20 days. Cause not stated. No Medical Certificate, nor Books of organization including Regimental Hospital Records, nor Company Returns, on file.

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of the Pension Claim of Matilda L. Robbins, widow, no. 172,712. On this the 25^th day of February, 1885, personally appeared before the claimant in this case, 60 years of age respectable in every way who being duly sworn states that she makes this as an amended affidavit in her claim. That her husband Jacob A. Robbins was examined in December before he died in April 1867, by Dr. P. A Faris now of East Bernstadt, Laurel Co. KY. That her husband at that time told Dr. Faris that while at Nicholsville, KY, while in the Army and line of duty he had taken a pain under his left shoulder blade and that he had never been free from pain since. The Dr. then put his ear down to her husbands side and placed his hand where the misery was but told her husband that he could not cure him, but might relieve him some but could not cure him her husband always told her he had never been free from that misery since his army service and told others that waited on him the same. He also told the Dr. that the misery was the ground work of his disease, and she respectfully requested that Dr. P.A. Faris be asked about the within statement as she is very poor and notable to get round to see parties to develop the true facts in her pension claim.

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

On this the 8^th day of October 1885, personally appeared before me a presiding judge of the aforesaid county court, Matilda L. Robbins, well known to be chase and reputable and entitled to full faith as a witness who being duly sworn deposes and says that she is 61 years old, that her residence and post office address is Moores Creek county and state aforesaid. That she is widow of Alexander Robbins, decd and mother of James Wilburn Robbins deceased who enlisted Not 1^st 1861 in Co A 24 Reg, KY infantry and died at Bardstown, KY, February 3rd, 1862 of fever contracted in service and line of duty (died in Hospital). Said James W. Robbins was 18 years old when enlisted and she was dependent on him for her support in part - and she makes this her application for pension under the laws of Congress allowing pension for dependent relations.

That she has made a prior application for pension for her husband Jacob A. Robbins who was late a member of Co. A, reg, KY vols Inft. That claim was rejected on the grounds that her husband did not contract his fatal disease in the Army.

That when her son claimed for enlisted as above stated her and her husband resided in Laurel County, KY near Mershoms Cross Road and had contracted for as small tract of land, but was unable to pay for it – that when her son died in Feb 1862 they (her and husband) resided in Jackson County, KY near where she now resides on rented land of Preston Pennington (he is dead his wife lives on same place). That when her son claim__ for enlisted he was paid $13.00 which amount he sent home to her. That he never sent her any further money contributions for the reason that he was never paid any more while in the army. That all the property owned by claimant, her husband during the year 1862 consisted of one horse, two cows not exceeding in value $100 (one hundred dollars). That she has never owned any real estate since the death of said son – She requested that the testimony filed in her claim for pension in the case of her husband Jacob A. Robbins, late of Co. A 47^th reg KY Inf be taken in consideration to prove the ages of her children and her widowhood and all of her material proof that can he used for her as dependent mother. That she also request that the records of the Hon Sec of the Treasury department at Washington D.C. who paid her son’s final pay and bounty on or about the winter of 1867 be taken to prove the relationship marriage and all testimony that is material to her claim and dependent mother. That she has never owned any material estate real or personal since the death of the son claimed for never owned any land and owned one horse up to 16 years back when it died. That she owned one cow at the death of her son it died about ten years back she has had no income only what she had earned with her own hands. That she is now unable to work and has to depend for her support on the charity of others. That she give her all to the government both her husband and son and she requests that all these things be taken in consideration. That she is uneducated and through the ignorance of ___ she was induced to make application for pension for her husband when she should have made application for her son.

A statement showing the amount of taxable property listed for taxation in Jackson County, KY in the name of Jacob A. Robbins, and Matilda Robbins from the year 1862 to the year 1885

1862 50 acres land in Laurel Co. KY, 1 house $25.00

1863 one horse $50.00

1864 two horses $150.00, 4 head of cattle

1865 Jacob A Robbins listed 1 horse $65.00, 1 cow

1866 nothing

1867 nothing

1868 Matilda L Robbins 1 horse $50.00, 4 cattle

1869 Matilda L Robbins 1 horse $50.00, 5 cattle

1870 Matilda L Robbins 2 cattle

1871 Matilda L Robbins 1 cattle, 5 hogs

1872 Matilda L Robbins 1 cattle, 1 hog

1873 nothing

1874 Matilda L Robbins 1 cattle

1875 Matilda L Robbins 1 cattle

1876 nothing

1877 nothing

1878 nothing

1879 nothing

1880 nothing

1881 nothing

1882 nothing

1883 nothing

1884 nothing

1885 nothing

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of Matilda L. Robbins, widow of Jacob A. Robbins, late Co A 47^th KY and the mother of James Wilburn Robbins, late of Co. A. 24^th reg KY Inf Vol. On this the 2^nd day of December 1886, personally appeared the claimant, Matilda L. Robbins well known to be chase reputable and entitled to full faith as a witness who being duly sworn deposes and says, she is 62 years old that she resided in Jackson Co. KY and her p.o. address is Moore’s Creek, KY. That she made application for pension for her husband who died of disease contracted in service and line of duty that claim through the interference of malicious meddlers because they had some personal spite at her son Lemuel Robbins was reflected in the year 1871. That she used what diligence she could but failed to get a rehearing.

That in October 1885 she filed application for her son James W. Robins who died in service and line of duty, who was under age and on whom she was in part dependent for her support. She caused this application to be filed in Oct 1885. She asked the commissioner of pensions to inform her in what condition her claim is and what will be necessary to complete said claim. That she has no home and is dependent upon the charity of other she respectfully asked that her claim as widow of Alexander Robbins be placed in the hands of a special examiner as to determining its merits.

DECLARATION FOR ORIGINAL PENSION OF A MOTHER

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

On this 19^th day of September, 1887, personally appeared before me...Matilda L. Robbins, aged 63, a resident of Moore’s Creek, Jackson Co. KY. She is the widow of Jacob A. Robbins and mother of James W. Robbins who volunteered under the name of James W. Robbins at London, KY on the 1^st day of Nov, 1861 as a private in Co. A, 24 KY Inf Vols, Commanded by Col Grigsby Hurt war of 1861-65 who died while in the service on the 23 day of Feb 1862 at Bardstown, KY and who bore at the time of his death the rank of Privt in Co. A 24 KY Inf Vols and said son James W. Robbins left neither widow or wife nor child under sixteen years of age surviving, that she was dependent upon said son for support: that her husband the aforesaid Jacob A. Robbins died April 1867 and that she is still the widow of the aforesaid Jacob A. Robbins. And that there were surviving at date of said son’s death, his brothers and sisters as follows:

Sarah A Robbins born 1842 and died in 1883

Lemuel T. Robbins born 1847

Jonathan G. Robins born 1849

Wiley M. Robins born 1851

Mary Elizabeth Robins born 1853

John H. Robins born 1855

Nancy J. Robins born 1859

William A. Robins born 1844

That she has not in any manner engaged in aided or abetted the rebellion in the United States that prior application on account of son has been filed - for husband no 172712.

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of Matilda L. Robbins, widow of Jacob A. Robbins, late Co A 47^th Ky. On this the 8th day of February 1888, personally appeared the claimant, Matilda L. Robbins well known to be chase reputable and entitled to full faith as a witness who being duly sworn deposes and says, I am 63 years old and I reside in Jackson Co. KY and my P.O. address is Moore’s Creek, KY. I am applicant for pension for my late husband the aforesaid Jacob A. Robins. I was married to the aforesaid Robins Oct 12^th 1841 in Buncombe County North Carolina and lived with him continuously until his enlistment in Co. A 47^th KY V.I. ... Medical stuff......he told me he had been talked in regard to pension and told me if he never got well to go on and get the pension due him. I wish to further add that about 1861 my husband and myself and some of our children had what was called yellow jaundice. My husband went about his work and did not have them but a few days. I wish all the facts proven in this matter I wish the matter fully and fairly investigated. He was confined in his first illness about nine months that time he was taken down about the first of August 1866 and died the 26^th day of April he complained of the same symptoms all day-he told me he did not think he would ever get well and that his army service was the cause of his trouble. I have failed to get this pension after repeated efforts other parties who have lost husbands and son have been allowed pension I have labored with my own hands and raised my helpless children without assistance and have a character untarnished by falsehood in trying to obtain what I believe to be my just dues - hoping that right will finally prevail.

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of the pension claim of Matilda L. Robbins, widow of Jacob A. Robbins, late Co A 47^th KY . On this the 10^th day of February 1888, personally appeared - Samuel E. Johnson, well know to me to be reputable and entitled to full faith as a witness. I am 54 years old. I reside in this county. My P.O. is Peoples Laurel Co. KY. I am a farmer and minister of the Gospel. I moved to this neighborhood about Feb 1867 and shortly went to see the aforementioned Robbins who was then down sick.....medical stuff.... I waited on him more or less until he died in a month or two, when he died I was present. When he died myself and Wiley Angel laid him out. ....he lived on this place here he was very poor and the bed he died was not a suitable place for a well man. He had no property that I know of he lived in a mere hovel. The rumor was the neighbors carried in provision and bed clothing. ...Mrs. Matilda L. Robins is a woman of high Christian character and perfectly reliable. I am not related and have no interest in this matter.

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of the pension claim of Matilda L. Robbins, widow of Jacob A. Robbins, late Co A 47^th KY . On this the 10^th day of February 1888, personally appeared - Elisabeth Pennington, well know to me to be reputable and entitled to full faith as a witness. I am 55 years old. I reside in this county. My P.O. is Peoples Laurel Co. KY. I am the widow of Preston Pennington. My husband enlisted Nov. 1^st 1861 Co. A, 24^th Regl KY at the time my husband enlisted he aforesaid Jacob A. Robbins lived on our farm. He made two crops and got wood for me during the winter of 1861 and 1862. He was a healthy industrious man. I never hear any complaint in anyway. My husband died in Nov 1864, I then went to Owsley Co. KY. I came back home in March 1867 at that time Robins lived in less than one mile of me. He was very sick and remained so till he died. One John Ward was treating him he said for dyspepsia I heard Robins say Ward had given him medicine that had worked against his disease and that Ward was a quack and that Ward knew but little about disease or medicine. He complained all over was in great misery. He looked bad, had a yellow skin, he told me he had never been well since he came out of the army. He told me this before I moved back where I went to see him in February 1867, he was bloated about the eyes but could not sit up when I came back. He complained mostly of his side and back but said he was hurting all over. The neighbors all waited on him....he was a man everyone liked even to the children. I am no way related and have no interest in this matter.

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of the pension claim of Matilda L. Robbins, widow of Jacob A. Robbins, late Co A 47^th KY . On this the 18^th day of February 1888, personally appeared...James O. Holt, well know to me to be reputable and entitled to full faith as a witness. I am 51 years old. I reside in this county, I am a farmer, I am a nephew to claimant. I knew Jacob A. Robbins ever since I knew anybody. I never knew him to have any serious sickness until after he returned from the army....I heard him preach the last sermon he ever preached. He told them then his health was bad and it would be the last sermon he would preach he went home and was took down and never did preach any more.

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of the pension claim of Matilda L. Robbins, widow of Jacob A. Robbins, late Co A 47^th KY . On this the 18^th day of February 1888, personally appeared....Daniel Parker know to me to be reputable and entitled to full faith as a witness. I am 46 years old. I reside in Jackson Co. KY. My post office is Peoples Laurel Co. KY. I became acquainted with the said Jacob A. Robbins before the war.... after he came home he lived near to me.....I was in the same regiment with Robbins but not in the same co. I am not related....

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of Matilda L. Robbins, widow of Jacob A. Robbins, late Co A 47^th Ky. On this the 20^th day of April 1888, personally appeared the claimant, Matilda L. Robbins well known to be chase reputable and entitled to full faith as a witness who being duly sworn deposes and says, I am 63 years old and I reside here at Moore’s Creek, KY. I am the widow of Jacob A. Robbins who was a member of the aforesaid Co and Reg. My husband died in the spring of 1867 with disease contracted in service and line of duty. I am destitute have nothing but my own labor and the charities of others to depend on for my support. The continued sickness of my husband and being left with a large family has kept me financially unable to hire parties competent to present the facts in my claim. The claim was first filed soon after my husbands death by a Mr. Hughes of Green Hall, KY who blundered about until he died.....

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of Matilda L. Robbins, widow of Jacob A. Robbins, late Co A 47^th KY, no. 172,710. On this the 8^th day of August 1888, personally appeared the claimant, Matilda L. Robbins well known to be chase reputable and entitled to full faith as a witness who being duly sworn deposes and says, I am 64 years old and I reside here at Moore’s Creek, KY, that is my post office address. I am applicant for pension no as above. I have lost both a husband and a son in the U.S. Army and have been an applicant for pension for many years - the long sickness of my late husband left me destitute with a large family dependent on me for support. My children have all scattered off and left me dependent on charity. I have neither personal or real estate. I have made two or three affidavits tending to make my claim special. I request that my claim be made special and either settled as it is or placed in the hands of a special examiner. I am unable to labor.

Beginning of Special Examination Interviews

Case of Matilda L. Robbins, No. 172.712

On this 4^th day of October 1888, at Near Moore Creek, County of Jackson, State of Kentucky, before me, James H. Clements, a Special Examiner of the Pension Office, personally appeared Matilda L. Robbins, who being by me first duly sworn to answer truly all interrogatories propounded to her during this Special Examination of aforesaid pension claim, deposes and says:

My age is 64 years, I have no occupation. I have no permanent home, reside sometimes with my Son William A. Robbins and sometimes with a grandchild and around among the neighbors. My P.O. address is Moore’s Creek, Jackson Ky. I am ____ and for a pension as the widow of  Jacob A. Robbins, who died on a place he had bought but was not able to pay for and it passed back into the hands of the party from whom he bought it, Henry Alle. (Deed) It was about three miles from where Moore’s Creek P.O. now is, on the 26 day of April 1867. I don’t know what was the immediate cause of his death, but as well as I remember his disease was said to be disease of liver and kidneys. For nine months before he died, he was only able to go about the house and yard, totally unable to work he did ride on house back a little bit as a recreation during that time. For twelve weeks, before he died he could only get in and out of bed with assistance. His symptoms were pain under left shoulder blade, left side and breast, and towards the last of pain all over him. I don’t remember that he was troubled with his bladder, or any difficulty in passing his water, or any excess in the flow of urine, or want of control of urinary organs. My said husband had the pain in his person, under left shoulder blade, side and breast at date of his discharge and before that time. I know it because he came home on a sick furlough about the last of July or first of August 1864 from Nicholasville, and he had the pains described then. He told me that these pains first attacked him suddenly at Nicholasville, KY when he was walking with his gun on his shoulder. He did not give any cause for the origin of the pain. He had never been so troubled before he enlisted. We were living on the Waters of Pond Creek, near Chinquapin Rough, (now Annville) when he came home on furlough and when he enlisted. Mrs. Truitt and Mrs.Cope had been to Nicholasville to see their sons who were in same regiment with my husband, and he got his sick furlough while they were there, they brought him home in their wagon. He was confined to bed for some considerable time after he reached home and when the furlough expired he was unable to go back to his command, said pains still troubling him. We got an extension of his furlough from Dr. Foster at London, and Foster told him to use a salt water sponge bath for the pains. I don’t remember whether Dr. Foster gave him any medicine at that time, or while he was on furlough. I saw what he called the furlough, but I can’t read or write. Sometime after the furlough was extended his Captain wrote to him to come to Camp if possible to be mustered out. I think he got a letter from his Captain, but I know he got a message from his Captain telling him to come to camp to be mustered out. He did go back to Camp on horseback and returned on same horse I think. He returned to Camp about the first part of December 1864 and came back home discharged early in January 1865, he was still complaining of the pains referred to, but was not as bad off as he was when he came home on sick furlough. Soon after he came home he bargained for the piece of land I told you of, that he was never able to pay for, and we moved on to it. He worked along some with assistance of our children, but was never able to do much. I don’t remember that he had a Doctor during the year immediately following discharge. I don’t remember that he was laid up during the first years, but he was always complaining. He took pills that he brought from the store, and made bitters of herbs that he gathered and took them. About the first day of August 1866 he had been over on Pond Creek, to see my daughter Sarah, wife of Menitree Turner, and he came home very sick and went to bed. I was sick myself with chills and fever then, and when he came home sick I asked him what was the matter, he replied that he was taken as he had been at Nicholasville only worse. He called in Dr. John Ward at that time, however was much better after that, but did get so he could get about some as I stated before. I don’t know whether he had chills and fever when he came home from said daughter’s. If he had any chills and fevers I don’t know it. He sometimes complained of feeling chilly and cold but he had no shakes like I and the children did, either when he came home from my daughters or afterwards. I was sick nearly all the summer and fall, with chills and fever. Don’t know how often Dr. Ward visited my husband, but I remember Dr. Farris was called in December 1866 to see my husband. I don’t know whether my husband took quinine or whether he took the same medicine I did. I remember that Mrs. Cynthia McDowell, wife of Dr. William F. McDowell came to see us in the summer of 1866. I don’t know whether she prescribed for me or my husband. Dr. McDowell is dead, Mrs. Cynthia McDowell is still living. I believe she lives near where my husband died. I reckon she practices medicine. I have heard of her practicing medicine, but don’t know it as a fact. When Dr. Farris attended my husband in December 1866 said husband was setting up, but bad off, he was very weak. I asked the Doctor if he was going to give him any strong medicine, the reply was that he was not, he told me what he was giving. I remember he mentioned several things, but I only remember one by name, that was a brown colored powder, it was a mixture he said it was Peruvian bark, it was mixed with water before taking. Dr. John Ward only came to the house to treat my husband in August 1866, I think, though he may have come after that. My daughter Sarah Turner is dead, her husband Menitree Turner was in the Army when my husband visited Sarah in August, no that is wrong, Menitree was at home. He is now living and his residence is in Powell Co. near Clay City, but I think he is now visiting over a about - Chinquapin Rough. Dr. Farris was the lst physician who visited said husband,. I was married to deceased soldier October 12, 1841. I had thirteen children by him, four of them were still born. I had a record of their births, but is was burned about 16 years ago last February. Eight of said children were living when my husband died. One of my children, James Wilburn Robbins, was a soldier in 24^th Kentucky Vols and died in service. The eight who were living when my husband died were:

Sarah Adeline born August 8, 1842

Lemuel Turner born September 30, 1847

Jonathan Goldsmith born November 24, 1849

Wiley Marion born October 5, 1851

Mary Elizabeth born October 5, 1853

John Henry born September 13, 1855

Nancy Jane born May 30, 1859

William Alexander born March 17, 1864

Sarah died Feb. 23, 1883. Jonathan G. died March 14, 1877. John H. died October 1, 1886, the others are living to best of my knowledge. Wiley M. is living near Pineville, Bell Co. KY. Mary Elizabeth is, I believe living with her husband at Delaney, Arkansas. Nancy Jane is, I believe living with her husband William Baldwin near St. Paul, Arkansas. William Alexander is living near ___ or Pond Fork, Jackson Co. KY. I don’t know whether Lemuel Turner is living or dead, I understand that I have the privilege of being present in person or by Atty, or both during the function _________ of my claim, to introduce and question witnesses. I don’t wish to be present. I desire Mr. Wm B. Johnson to represent me if you have no objection. He has been attending to the claim for me through I never made a contract with him nor agreed to pay him any particular amount. I did tell him that if I get the pension I would see him satisfied or pay him for his trouble, or words to that effect. I desire you to see as witnesses to prove that my husband was sick in service, Captain John Pennington, Lieut Godfrey Isaacs, Sergeant William Moore, and Comrade Jacob Gabbard, also comrades Alfred York and Caleb Cope. They all live within five or six miles of here. And Dr. John Ward, Sam Johnson, and John Brown to prove continuance to death. You can also see Mrs. Cynthia McDowell, and Elizabeth Pennington for same purpose. My maiden name was Matilda L. Goldsmith and I was married to the soldier at the home of my brother William M. Goldsmith, about 18 miles west of Asheville in Buncombe Co. N.C. The license was obtained at Asheville, N.C. I don’t wish to say anything more at present. I understand your questions, my answers are correctly recorded in this deposition.

witnesses, Jacob Gabbard & James H. Clements.

Signed: Matilda L. Robbins (her mark)

Sworn to and subscribed before me this 4 day of October 1888, and I certify that the contents were fully made known to deponent before signing. James H. Clements.

My age is 53 years, occupation farmer, P.O. address High Know Clay Co. KY though I reside in Jackson Co. KY. I was a Private in Co A 47^th US Cal Inf. Enlisted July 1863, and mustered out with the Co. December 26, 1864. I was acquainted with the deceased soldier Jacob A. Robbins in Service, and had met at Preaching before service, he served in said Co. A.

Continues to talk about health and medical treatment, etc.

My age is 63 years. Occupation farmer, P.O. address Pond Fork, Jackson Co. KY. I was first Lieut. Co A 47 KY Vol Inftry in late war. I knew Jacob A. Robbins who was a Private in said Co. Knew him before he enlisted, he was a Preacher, and I attended his meetings sometimes. Continues to talk about health related issues.

My age is 43 years. Occupation  farmer. P.O. address Annville, Jackson Co. KY. I was a private in Co. A 47^th KY Vol Inftry. in the late war. Enlisted in July 1863 and was mustered out with the Co in December 1864, was on furlough on account of sickness in the fall of 1863 for 20 days. Also had furlough for 20 days just before muster out when the whole regiment was furloughed. I knew William A. Robbins who was a Private in said Co. A in service, had no personal acquaintance with him before enlistment. He appeared to be sound at enlistment, I know that said soldier was sick at Nicholasville, sometime in the summer of 1864. Caleb Cope, a brother-in-law of mine, a soldier in said Co. was sick with fever at Nicholasville in the summer of 1864 and was in a house they called a school building and was attended by a Dr. Poor. I waited on said Cope during the time he was sick and remember that deceased soldier Jacob A. Robbins was sick in that building at same time.

....My recollection is that at the time Redden Truitt, my mother, Elinor Hellard and my wife, Sallie York, came to Nichlasville to see me and other friends, said Jacob A. Robbins got a pass from Captain Pennington to be absent 48 hours or for a short period, and that he left to Nicholasville, with said persons. I know he was absent from Camp a good while after that, and I have heard my mother and wife say be came home with them.

My age is 69 years, occupation farmer. P.O. address, Annville, Jackson Co. KY. I was a soldier in Co C 7^th KY Vol Inftry in the late war, was discharged on Surgeon Creek, Certificate of disability Dec 1862. I lived about four miles from here on Laurel Fork, in the summer of 1864 at that time Alfred York, my wife’s son was a soldier in Co. A 47^th KY Vol Infry, at Nicholasville KY. My wife, Sallie York and Elinor Hellard and I went to Nicholasville in a wagon to see said Alfred York.

We were three days on the journey home, we camped out one night, said soldier was sick all the way home, but I don’t know what his disease was. ...left him on the road before getting to his house, when we got to my home, don’t know exactly where he did live at that time, Miss York came on with him when he left. It was Mr. Cope’s wagon and they continued on in the wagon leaving my wife and I at home.

My age in 61 years, occupation farmer, P.O. address Annville, Jackson Co. KY. I am acquainted with the claimant Matilda L. Robbins, and knew her deceased husband before he enlisted and during his service in Co. A 47 Inf, of which Co I was Captain.

Talked about his memories of Jacob’s health.

My age is 42 years. Occupation farmer: P.O. address Annville, Jackson Co. KY. I was a private in Co. A 47^th KY Vols in the late war.

My age is 47 years, occupation farmer, P.O. address Tyner, Jackson Co. KY. I was a private in Co. A 47^th KY Vol Infty in the late war. Knew deceased soldier Jacob A. Robbins, before enlistment in service.

My age is 48 years, occupation farmer. P.O. address Tyner, Jackson Co. KY. I was 1^st sergeant Co. A 47^th KY Vol Inftry in the late war. I am acquainted with the claimant Matilda L. Robbins. Was acquainted in Service with her deceased husband Jacob A. Robbins, who was a Private in said Co A knew him before he enlisted, he was a farmer and preacher.

My age is 79 years, occupation practicing as a physician, have practiced medicine for 44 years. P.O. Malden, Jackson Co. KY. I am well acquainted with the claimant Matilda L. Robbins and was well acquainted with her deceased husband Jacob A. Robbins, better known as Aleck Robbins, he was a farmer and preacher, and was a soldier in the U.S. Army in the late war.

Deposition L – 9 Oct 1888 at Near High Knob P.O., Jackson, KY – Samuel Peters

My age is 49 years, occupation farmer; P.O. address is High Knob, Clay Co. KY thought residence is in Jackson Co. KY. I was a Private in Co. A 47^th KY Vol Inftry in the late war, was acquainted in the service with Jacob A. Robbins who served in said Co. A, he was a preacher and sometimes preached to the boys. I did not know him before enlistment.

My age is 46 years. Housekeeper, P.O. address Annville, Jackson Co. KY. My maiden name is Rachel Turner, am a sister of Menitree Turner. My husband was a son of deceased soldier Jacob A. Robbins, and the claimant Matilda L. Robbins. I was married to Lemuel T. Robbins, 23 November 1865. I have not lived with him for fifteen years. During the war I lived with my mother on Pond Creek about two miles from here, and I remember that deceased soldier came from the Army with some other people to the house of Mr. Cope, Mr. Redden Truitt was one of the persons he came with, he was sick and I heard of it and went to Mr. Cope, and got him to come over to my mothers about a half a mile or less from Mr. Copes. It was my step mother, not my own mother, but I lived with her. Soldier staid at my step mothers a few hours he laid down and rested on a bed and then went on home on horse back. I went on with him. I think there were others with him I walked. He was sick after getting home but I don’t know what was the matter with him. I don’t know how long he was sick.....I lived at the same house with deceased soldier for three weeks after I married his son in November 1865. He was complaining all that time of misery in his shoulders....

My age is 48 years. Occupation farmer, P.O. address Clay City, Powell Co. KY The claimant is my mother in law. I married her daughter Sarah Robbins about June 1859. My wife has been dead about four years. I knew the deceased soldier Jacob A. Robbins, husband of claimant very well. I served in Co. C, 7 KY Inftry from 19 August 1861 till 24 Feb 1864, reenlisted as a veteran and served in Co. D of the regiment till 11 March 1866, was discharged at Baton Rouge, GA. ....When I was discharged in March 1866, said father in law was living about four miles from me and so lived until he died.

My age is 56 years, pensioner as widow of Preston Pennington Co. A 24, KY Vol. P.O. address Peoples, KY. I am well acquainted with the claimant Matilda L. Robbins, she and her husband deceased soldier Jacob A. Robbins, lived on land rented from my husband until a few months before he (Robbins) enlisted. Don’t remember not just where he did live when he enlisted, but it was not very far off. The time they left our land he was regarded as a healthy man, he worked on the farm and preached in the neighborhood. My husband died in November 1864 and I went to Owsley Co. in October 1865 and remained about 18 months or till March 1867, said soldier died within a month or two after I returned. I came back in February 1867 on business before I moved back to stay, and at that time, said soldier was confined to his bed....

My age is 59 years, Occupation. practicing medicine, am widow of Dr. W. F. McDowell, P.O. address Peoples, Kentucky. ....Medical information after that.

My age is 50 years, occupation farmer. I am also a Notary Public, have been NP about 5 years. P.O. address, Moores Creek, KY. I have been attending to the pension claim of Matilda L. Robbins, I have taken several depositions or affidavits in her claim ....she had a son who served in my Co. A 24 KY Vol and died in service and she was a friend to my mother and to me, she is extremely poor and I have helped her and supplied some of her wants, and given her some money, but I have no account against her, and don’t propose to receive a fee from her for my services.

Widow’s Pension, Claimant: Matilda L. Robbins, P. O. Moore’s Creek, Jackson, KY

Soldier: Jacob A. Robbins, Rank Private, Co. A, Regiment: 47^th, KY Vol Inf

Rate $8.00 per month, commencing April 26^th, 1867 and $12 per month from March 19, 1886, and two dollars a month additional for each child, as follows:

Wiley M. – born Oct. 5^th 1851, sixteen on Oct 4^th 1867

Mary E. – born Oct. 5^th 1853, sixteen on Oct. 4^th 1869

John H. – born Sept. 13^th 1855, sixteen on Sept 12^th 1871

Nancy J. – born May 30^th 1859, sixteen on May 29^th 1875

William A. – born March 17^th 1864, sixteen on March 16^th 1880

Payment for listed children to commence on 27 April 1867.

Recognized Attorney:

Name: George E. Lemon

P.O. Washington D.C.

Fee: $25.00

Articles filed: Aug 18^th 1884

Approved: 27 June 1888

Claimant does not write.

Important dates:

Enlisted 28 July 1863

Mustered 5 Oct 1863

Discharged 26 Dec 1864

Died 26 April 1867

Declaration filed: 10 Mar 1869

Invalid application filed – none

Invalid last paid to – none

Former marriage of soldier – none

Death of former wife – none

Claimant’s marriage to soldier – 12 Oct 1841.

This same form was filed August 18, 1884 and rejected 23 Oct 1888, "the grounds that evidence advanced on Special Examination fails to show that soldiers’ death (believed to have been brought on by bilious intermittent fever) was due to his military service. Oct 22, 1888, signed by A.J. Throp, the re-reviewer, who writes "death probably due to malarial fever contracted after discharge."

Richmond, Madison Co., KY

Hon John C. Black

Commissioner of Pensions

Sir:

I have the honor to review the papers in claim orig no. 172.712 of Matilda L. Robbins, widow of Jacob A. Robbins, late Private Co. A 47^th KY Vol Inf. P.O. address Moores Creek, Jackson Co. KY. Claim was originally filed Mar 10, 1859, alleging death of soldier April 26, 1867 from disease in sides, contracted in service and line of duty, Adjutant General report shows no disease or disability in service, soldier was mustered out with his Co. The claim was rejected June 11, 1877. Reopened May 12, 1888 and referred to SED June 27, 1888 for Special Examination to immediate cause of death, and general merit. It was taken up by me on 4 int. because other work made "Special" by order of the Hon Commissioner took me to same neighborhood in which claimant and some of her witnesses resides.

Claimant is a very poor woman, of good reputation, she has no education, but is intelligent, has apparently a very good memory, though it is a fault sometimes. She was duly notified of intended examination, and informed of all her rights and privileges. She waived delay, and personal presence, but was represented by her agent, Wm B. Johnson, who was present during the examinations of each witness appearing before me except Dr. John Ward, all the testimony was read over to claimant in his presence and hearing before taking her final statement.

The witnesses examined by me are of fair to good reputation, all are friendly to claimant, indeed all persons to whom I mentioned her case, who knew her, expressed a hope that she would be pensioned. Dr. J. P. Farris who attended the soldier after discharge from service, in the sickness that in my opinion was the primary cause of his death, is a very old man, he has no education, but has practiced as a Doctor in Jackson Co., KY for over 40 years, his reputation for truth is good. It appears that a number of affidavits filed in the brief jacket, purposing to have been signed by said Doctor John Ward, are forgeries but prosecution has long been barred by the statute, and the Agent who had the case in hand at time the forgeries were committed, has been dead some years.

Mrs. Cynthia McDowell, who succeeded said Ward in the treatment of the soldier an original witness, and who was examined by me, is a woman of good reputation. She still practices as a Doctor among a respectable class of poor people. I am satisfied her statement to me in this claim is substantially true.

From the testimony before me filed herewith, I am of opinion that the soldier was not a strong man before enlistment, was predisposed to liver complaint. He was indisposed to some extent, and doctored himself while in service, but had no serious sickness therein. After discharge he followed his usual avocation of farming and preaching., and complained some of pains and aches, but had no serious sickness until about August or September 1866, when he with several members of his family were attached with bilious intermittent fever, or chills and fevers, from local causes. His treatment was of a primitive character, but he improved under it and got up and about, but went to traveling around preaching before he was sufficiently strong, and in consequence had a relapse resulting in a general breaking down, such as frequently attends or follows malarial disease and from which he died. It is very probably that his liver and kidneys were affected, as sworn to by P. A. Faris. Exhibit 89 BJ/ I do not believe the disease that caused his death was contracted in Service and therefore recommend that the claim be rejected.

There is with the papers an application from claimant, filed October 12, 1888, for pension as dependent mother of James Wilburn Robbins. Private Co. A 24 KY Infty, Vols. Who died in the service Feb 3, 1862, at Bardstown, KY, but is has never been considered or numbered. I did not deem it my duty under the circumstances to take testimony as to dependence, but from what is developed in this examination I think there is merit in the mother’s claim, and as she is extremely poor, I take the liberty to suggest an early consideration of that claim, should my recommendation be approved in this.

Very respectfully

James H. Clements

Special Examiner

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of Matilda L. Robins mother of James W. Robins Co. A 24^th Reg KY V I on this the 7^th day of February 1889, personally appeared John W. Dees, well known to be reputable and entitled to full credence who being duly sworn disposes and says I am 50 years old, I reside at Moore’s Creek KY. I am a farmer. I knew the family of claimant in the years 1860 and 1861 was a neighbor and visited them frequently. I went to see one of the girls. They were hard run poor people. I don’t think they kept anything but a cow and no real estate. The husband followed black smithing a little, farming a little, and preached a little, sometimes at home sometimes off. The son worked for the family don’t remember, he hired out. They had no land, claimant has never had any thing before or since the war to amount to $150.00. The claimant was always considered to be the mother of the son claimed for. I never heard anything to the contrary. I am not related and have no interest. ( I didn’t get the girl.)

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of Matilda L. Robins mother of James W. Robins Co. A 24^th Reg KY V I on this the 7^th day of February 1889, personally appeared Susan Pennington, well known to be reputable and entitled to full credence who being duly sworn disposes and says I am 43 years old. There is seven months difference between my age and that of James W. Robins, the son claimed. He worked for the support of the claimant and the family prior to 1861, when he enlisted. I was raised right with and near them. He was the son of claimant and contributed to her support by working for them (the family). They were very poor, the owned no land and but a small place of property. I don’t think they had but one cow. I stayed there in 1862 I don’t remember but milking one cow. I don’t remember a horse. I know they were hard run. Claimant is my aunt by marriage. I have no interest in this matter.

War Department

Adjutant General’s Office

Washington

Respectfully returned to the Commissioner of Pensions

James Robbins a Private of Company A, 24^th regiment, KY Inf Volunteers, was enrolled on the 1^st day of November 1861, at Camp Jackson for 3 years and is reported on muster roll February 28, 1862 .

Died Feb 3^rd 1862 at Bardstown, KY. Muster out roll of Co dated January 31, 1865, shows him private. Died same date and place of fever. No final statement on file.

The records of this office furnished no further information. Name James W. Robbins, not borne on rolls of said co.

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of Matilda L. Robbins widow of Jacob A Robbins, late of Co A 47^th KY Vo. And mother of James W. Robins, deceased, Co A 24^th KY Inf, on this the 21^st day of July 1889, personally appeared Matilda L. Robbins well known to be a chased respectable and entitled to full credence who being duly sworn deposes and says I am 68 years old I reside at Moore’s Creek KY that is my P.O. address I am applicant for pension for my husband Jacob A Robbins. That claim was rejected through the intervention of partied prejudiced at one of my son was rejected in 1871. I have filed new and material proofs tending to the ______ and failed to get a rehearing. In Oct 1885, I caused to be filed an application as dependent mother of James W. Robbins my son, who died in line of duty Co A 24 reg KY Vol and from that application I have received no response. I am sure my husband died with disease contracted in service and line of duty. I am entirely dependent on charity for my subsistence and clothing. I respectfully refer to the transcripts

and of the testimony filed in my claim. I have no one legally bound to support me. I respectfully ask that special action be taken in my case as I am old and unable to work and have lost both a husband and son in the service.

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of claim for Matilda L. Robbins, mother of James W. Robbins Col. A, 24, KY, aged 64 years.

I am mother of the soldier claimed for in this case. I am unable to give the ages and relationships of my family at date of my sons death for the reason that my family records was burned in my house. I know the ages of my children now from memory only, but can not tell the dates of births.

I refer to the testimony taken in husbands by Special Examiner Claims no.________. Jacob A. Robins A 47^th, reg KY Vol Inf for those that were under 16 at date of his death (1867) I had one daughter, (Sarah Robins) she was married at date of my sons death, she was born Aug 8^th 1842, and son Lemuel Robins he would have been 42 last September.

The remainder of my children’s ages were proven in husbands claim above referred to. I was compelled to remove from place to place and the removals and deaths has so _____ it that I am unable to prove their probable ages. I do hope all the things will be taken in to consideration and my claim admitted again asking that my Original Declaration filed Oct 5^th, 1885 be taken out of my late husband’s claim which was in his care here when Special examiners was here (James H. Clements) it was in an envelop with a slip stating that I have good permafacia evidence with it was not deemed necessary to file it. I referred in that declaration for evidence of births to the hon Third _____treasury department who paid me my son’s bounty and final pay.

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of claim for Matilda L. Robbins, mother of James W. Robbins Col. A, 24, KY, aged 64 years. Deposition of George W. Cook, 61 years old P.O. Moore’s Creek

I am 62 years old. I became acquainted with this claimant since the spring of 1863 when I came to this county. She had no real estate that summer. She and her husband lived right here at this place I believe they owned a couple of cows, worth about $30.00. I don’t remember they owned a horse they bought one after her husband went in the Army, it died. Since her husband’s death in 1867, she has been in bad condition, supported principally by charity. I have furnished clothing to her. She claims and has claimed that she had a female disease and was not able to work had no property or visible means of support only her son in law and what neighbors’ would give her. Since 1888 she had depended upon the church and charity to keep her up. She is a good moral religious woman. She has not remarried since the death of her husband in 1867.

State of Kentucky

County of Jackson

In the matter of claim for Matilda L. Robbins, widow of Jacob A. Robins and mother of James W. Robbins Col. A, 24, KY.

On this the 30^th day of May 1890 personally appeared the claimant well known to me to be reputable and entitled to full credence who being duly sworn deposes and says I am 65 years old. I reside here at Moore/s Creek KY. I am the widow of the late Jacob A. Robins A Co. 47^th KY Inf and mother of James W. Robins A Co 24^th KY V. I. NO____.

I am destitute dependent on charity for my support.

My son claimed for died in service and line of duty.

My declaration was duly executed before a court of record.

This has been thoroughly proved as had dependence at date of death and during any past previous period. I have not remarried. And my health is so I can not maintain myself by labor.

I have neither personal or real estate.

My claim is thoroughly proved and I believe I have been terribly wronged and refer to my husbands claim for proofs. I ask my claim be placed in completed files under order 151 and made special.

Pensioner Dropped

U.S. Pension Agency

Louisville, KY

Certificate No. 273,295

Class: Mother

Pensioner: Matilda L. Robbins

Soldier: James W. Robbins

Service: Pvt, A, 24^th, KY Vol Inf

Hon Commissioner of Pensions:

Sir: I have the honor to report that the above named pensioner who was last paid at $12.00 to 4 August 1901 has been dropped because of death.