A Census of Pensioners for Revolutionary Or Military Services

Brief Summary

A Census of Pensioners for Revolutionary Or Military Services by the U.S. Department of State Staff offers an invaluable resource for genealogists and historians interested in early American history. This meticulously compiled list features 25,000 Revolutionary War pensioners who were still living in 1840. It includes their ages and the names of family heads with whom they resided, categorized by state or territory, county, and sometimes further subdivisions. Based on the Sixth Census of the United States, this work provides a detailed snapshot of post-Revolutionary War America, shedding light on the origins of settlers and migration patterns across the growing nation. The edition includes a typescript index prepared by the Genealogical Society of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, enhancing its accessibility and usefulness for research purposes.

Main Themes and Topics

The primary theme of A Census of Pensioners for Revolutionary Or Military Services is the documentation of veterans who served during the American Revolutionary War and were living in 1840. It highlights the legacy of these individuals through detailed records that touch upon both genealogy and migration studies. This census-based compilation allows readers to explore the spread of early settlers across the United States, offering insight into how these revolutionary legacies influenced the demographic landscape. Migration patterns, family structures, and the distribution of pensioners provide a window into early 19th-century American society, connecting past and present generations.

Writing Style and Tone

As a governmental document, the writing style of A Census of Pensioners for Revolutionary Or Military Services is straightforward and factual. The tone is objective, focusing entirely on presenting accurate data without embellishment or narrative flourish. The information is systematically organized to ensure clarity and utility, reflecting the formal structure typical of census documents. Accompanying the data, the typescript index adds another layer of utility by streamlining the search for specific individuals or family names, demonstrating a commitment to thoroughness and precision.

Criticism

Some readers might find A Census of Pensioners for Revolutionary Or Military Services to be a somewhat dry read, given its nature as a government document primarily concerned with data rather than narrative. The focus on listings and lack of contextual explanation might make it less engaging for those unfamiliar with historical or genealogical research. However, for its intended audience, the book remains an indispensable resource.