Name Ayers, Michael A. Rank: Major
Company F & S
Enlisted/Enrolled Date: 1 Dec 1861 At: Smithville, VA.
By: Captain James L. Simpson, 11th Va Infty For: 3 years Muster in
Date: 22 Dec 1861
At: Elizabeth, Wirt Co., Va. By: Major Geo. C. Trimble, 11th VA. Infty
Description: (age) 12 (born) Allegheny Co., Md. (height) 5-7” (5’-6”)
(eyes) Gray (hair) Light (complexion) Fair (occupation) Farmer
Muster Out Date: 17 June 1865 At: Richmond, Va.
By: 2nd Lt. Jere Horton, 34th Mass. Infty Vols. & A.C.M., Indpt
Division, 24th Army Corps.
Remarks: Served as Sergeant of Company “C”, Sergeant-Major of the Regiment
, 2nd & 1st Lt.
of Company “A” and Major of the Regiment
SUMMARY OF SERVICE
MICHAEL A. AYERS - (Sergt of Co. “C”, 2nd & 1st Lt. of Co. “A”,
Sergt Major & Major of
the Regt) - Enrolled as a Private in Company “C” on 1 December 1861.
Was mustered into the U.S.
service and promoted to Sergeant of Company “C” on 22 December 1861.
Contracted measles about
6 January 1862 at Spencer, WVA While still sick was moved
to Elizabeth, WVA about 18 January
1862 and again moved to Arnoldsburg, WVA about 3 or 4 February 1862.
There he took cold and his
condition again deteriorated. He continued unfit for duty until
about 2 March 1862 when he was
attacked with Pneumonia. Returned to duty prior to 30 June 1862.
Served as Acting Sergeant
Major of the Regiment from about 1 June 1863 until about 11 August
1863 when he was promoted
to that rank. Was mustered out of the U.S. service on 28 March
1864 by virtue of his re-enlistment
as a Veteran Volunteer on 9 February 1864. Was reappointed Sergeant
Major to date 9 February
1864. He was admitted to the General Hospital at Parkersburg,
WVA from the Regimental Hospital
on 8 July 1864 suffering with Acute Diarrhea. He was returned
to duty on 9 September 1864. He was
granted a furlough on 9 October 1864 due to his re-enlistment as a
Veteran Volunteer. He returned to
duty in November 1864. Was discharged the U.S. service as Sergeant
Major and promoted to 2nd
Lieutenant of Company “A” on 14 November 1864 to replace 2nd Lieutenant
James H. McGill who
was dismissed from the service. Was mustered into the US.service
as 2nd Lieutenant on 17 November
1864. Served a portion of the time as Acting Adjutant of the
Regiment. Received a commission as
1st :Lieutenant of Company “A” on 25 January 1865 to replace 1st Lieutenant
A.Q. Mountz who
had resigned. Was mustered into the U.S. service as 1st Lieutenant
on 31 January 1865. Received a
commission as Major of the Regiment on 7 February 1865 to replace Major
James L. Simpson who
had been promoted to Lt. Colonel of the Regiment. Was mustered
out of the U.S. service as 1st
Lieutenant and remustered as Major on 13 February 1865 (to date 14
Feb. 1865). Served as Major
until he was mustered out of the U.S. service with the Regimental Field
& Staff on 17 June 1865.
COMPANY MUSTER ROLLS (1862 )
Name: Ayers, Michael Company “ C “ 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry
Jan & Feb/dated: Rank: Sgt Present Yes
Remarks:
Mar & Apr/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
May & Jun/dated: Feb 28 to June 30/62 Rank: Sgt Present Yes
Remarks:
Jul & Aug/dated: Rank: Sgt Present Yes
Remarks:
Sep & Oct/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
Nov & Dec/dated: Aug 31 to Dec 31/62 Rank: Sgt Present Yes
Remarks:
Special Roll/dated: Company Muster in Roll, Elizabeth, Wirt County,
Va. 22 Dec. 1861
Capt. Simpsons Company 11th Regt Va. Foot Volunteers- Sergeant, age
20 ?, Muster in to date 22.
Dec. 1861, Enrolled 1 Dec. 1861 at Smithville, Va. for 3 years.
Misc Record: Rec Grp AR633 - List of Officers 11 WVA. Vols, WVA Archives
Date:
Listed Commissioned Major; Commissioned Major 7 Feb. 1865; Commissioned
2nd Lt. 7? Sept. 1864
Misc Record: Rec Grp AR 635 - Record of Co. A, 11 WV Vols, WVA Archives
Date:
(1st Listing) Lists Michael A. Ayers, 2nd Lt., Age 21, enlisted Kernstown,
Va. 15 Nov. 1864 for
unexpired term of service. Mustered in 17 Nov. 1864 (to date
15 Nov. 64) at Kernstown, Va.,
credited to Gilmer Co., WVa.; promoted to 1st Lt. vice Mountz resigned.
(2nd Listing) Lists Michael
A. Ayers, 1st Lt., age 21, enlisted 31 Jan 1865 at Chapins Farm, Va.
for unexpired term of service,
mustered in 31 Jan 1865 at Chapins Farm, Va., promoted to Major.
Misc Record: Rec Grp AR 639, Desc. Book Co. C, 11 WV Vols WVA Archives
Date:
Michael A. Ayers, Age 21, 5’-6”, fair complexion, gray eyes, light
hair, born Allegheny Co., Md.,
Farmer, enlisted 1 Dec. 1861 at Smithville, Va. by James L. Simpson
for 3 years.
“1861/62 records continued on separate sheet of other records”
OTHER RECORDS ( 1861 - 1862 )
Name: Ayers, Michael Company “C “ 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry
Misc Record: Company “A” Descriptive Book: Dated:
Michael A. Ayers, Age 21, 5’-6”, fair complexion, gray eyes, light
hair, born Allegheny Co., Md.,
Farmer, enlisted 1 Dec. 1861 at Smithville, Va. by James L. Simpson
for 3 years. Mustered 22 Dec.
1861, appointed Sergeant Company “C”, 11th W.Va. Vols. 24 Dec. 1861,
Appointed Sergeant Major
1 June 1862, Re-enlisted as Veteran Volunteer 9 Feb. 1864, Commissioned
2nd Lieutenant and
assigned to Company “A” 15 Nov. 1864.
Misc Record: Dated:
(sheet of )
COMPANY “C” MUSTER ROLLS (1863)
Name: Ayers, Michael Company “ C “ 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry
Jan & Feb/dated: Rank: Sgt Present Yes
Remarks:
Mar & Apr/dated: Rank: Sgt Present Yes
Remarks:
May & Jun/dated: Rank: Sgt Present Yes
Remarks:
Jul & Aug/dated: Rank: Sgt Present Yes
Remarks: Promoted to Sergeant-Major 11 Aug 1863.
Sep & Oct/dated: Rank: Pvt Present not stated
Remarks: Promoted to Sergeant-Major 5 June 1863.
Nov & Dec/dated: Rank: Sgt-Maj. Present not stated
Remarks: Promoted to Sergeant-Major 8 June 1863.
Special Roll/dated: 17 April 1863 Rank: Sgt Present Yes
Remarks:
Misc Record: Returns: Date: 1863
May: On duty, Actg. Sgt. Major, 11th W.Va.
Jun. & July: Absent detached, Actg. Sgt. Major
since 1 June 1863 at Hancock, Md.
Sept.: Sgt. Major, Absent at Regtl Hdqtrs 8 June 1862
Oct. & Nov.: Absent detached 1 June 1863.
Dec.: (Sgt. Co. C) Loss 31 Dec. 1863 at Parkersburg,
W.Va., promoted Sgt. Major 1 Jun. 63 and dropped from Company Rolls
31 Dec. 1863.
Misc Record: Date:
Remarks:
FIELD & STAFF MUSTER ROLLS (1863)
Name: Ayers, Michael Company “ F & S “ 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry
Jan & Feb/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
Mar & Apr/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
May & Jun/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
Jul & Aug/dated: Rank: Sgt-Maj. Present Yes
Remarks: Promoted from Sergeant to Sgt-Major 1 June 1863.
Sep & Oct/dated: Rank: Sgt-Maj. Present Yes
Remarks:
Nov & Dec/dated: Rank: Sgt-Maj. Present Yes
Remarks:
Special Roll/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
Misc Record: Headquarters, Military Commander, Wheeling, Date: 1 Oct.
1863:
Remarks: (To) Captain T. Moore, A.Q.M, Wheeling: Please furnish transportation
for M.A.
Ayers, Sgt. Major 11th VA Vol. Infty - returning guard to Parkersburg,
VA (signed) W.C. Thorpe,
13th Infty, USA & Military Comdr.
Misc Record: Date:
Remarks:
FIELD & STAFF MUSTER ROLLS (1864)
Name: Ayers, Michael Company “ F & S “ 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry
Jan & Feb/dated: Rank: Sgt-Maj. Present Yes
Remarks:
Mar & Apr/dated: Rank: Sgt-Maj. Present Yes
Remarks: $50.00 2nd installment bounty due on re-enlistment, $8.00
due on 1st months pay by virtue
of reappointment as Sgt-Major.
May & Jun/dated: Rank: Sgt-Maj. Present Yes
Remarks: $50.00 2nd installment bounty due on re-enlistment, $8.00
due on 1st months pay by virtue
of reappointment as Sgt-Major.
Jul & Aug/dated: Rank: Sgt-Maj. Present No
Remarks: Sick in General Hospital, Parkersburg, WVA 9 July 1864
- Difference of pay due between
Pvt and Sgt-Major from 8 Feb. to 8 March.
Sep & Oct/dated: Rank: Sgt-Maj. Present No
Remarks: On Veteran Furlough - Difference of pay due between Pvt &
Sgt-Major from 8 Feb. to 8
Mar.
Nov & Dec/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
Misc Record: Returns: Date: 1864
July: (Sgt. Major NCS), Absent sick in hospital, Parkersburg, W.Va.
9 July Sept. & Oct.: Absent on
Veteran furlough 9 Oct. 64. Nov.: (2nd Lt.
Co. A), Present, promoted from Sgt. Major 14 Nov.,
mustered 15 Nov., assigned to Co. A vice J.H. McGill
Dec.: Present, Actg. Adjt of Regt.
Misc Record: Volunteer Enlistment, State of West VA, Parkersburg, W.Va.,
Date: 9 Feb. 1864:
M.A. Ayers, age 23, Farmer, born Allegheny Co., Md., volunteered 9
Feb. 1864 before Lt. A.Q.
Mountz - examined by A.D. Voorheis, 11th W.Va., examining surgeon,
Gray Eyes, Light Hair, Fair
Complexion, 5’7” Tall, (signed) Lt. A.Q. Mountz, 1st lt. Co. A, 11th
W.Va.
Misc Record: Declaration of Recruit, Parkersburg, W.Va. Date:
9 Feb. 1864:
Michael A. Ayers volunteered at Parkersburg, W.Va., 9 Feb. 1864 by
Lt. A.Q. Mountz, 11th W.Va.,
2nd enlistment, last served as Sgt. Major, 11th Regt W.Va. Vol. Infty,
discharged 8 Feb. 1864, age 23
2 months, given at Parkersburg, W.Va. 9 Feb. 1864, (witness) John H.
McLaughlin.
“1864 records continued on separate sheet of other records 1864”
OTHER RECORDS (1864)
Name: Ayers, Michael Company F & S 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry
Misc Record: Muster & Descriptive Roll, Veteran Vols, Parkersburg,
WV Dated: 24 Mar 1864
Enlisted 9 Feb. 1864, Mustered 9 Feb. 1864, bounty due $400.00, re-enlisted
as Veteran Volunteer
under General Orders 191, War Dept. of 1863
Misc Record: Individual Muster Out Roll, Parkersburg, W.Va., Dated:
28 Mar 1864
Sgt. Major, muster out to date 8 Feb. 1864, last paid to 31 Dec. 1863,
due soldier on Clothing
account $4.50, bounty due $100.00, discharged by virtue of re-enlistment
as Veteran Volunteer under
provisions of General Orders No. 191 from War Dept., series 1863.
Misc Record: Hospital Muster Roll, U.S. General Hospital, Parkersburg,
W.Va. for July & Aug. 1864
: Sergeant Major, 11th W.Va. Vols., Absent on furlough.
Misc Record: U.S.A. General Hospital, Parkersburg, W.Va. Dated:
(no date):
Michael Ayers, Hospital No. 35., age 21, American; single;
Residence Parkersburg; P.O. Address of
nearest relative Moses Ayers, Parkersburg; Sgt. Major 11th W.Va.
Vol. Infty; Admitted to hospital
8 July 1864 from Regtl Hospital; Diagnosis Acute Diarrhea.
Returned to duty 9 Sept. 1864
COMPANY “A” MUSTER ROLLS (1864)
Name: Ayers, Michael Company “ A “ 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry
Jan & Feb/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
Mar & Apr/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
May & Jun/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
Jul & Aug/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
Sep & Oct/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
Nov & Dec/dated: Rank: 2nd Lt. Present Absent
Remarks: 2nd Lt. In Company “A”; enrolled 15 Nov. 1864 at Wheeling,
WVA; absent on special
duty, Actg Adjt of Regiment.
Misc Record: Company “A” Muster Out Roll, Kearnstown, Va., 22
Nov.1864
2nd Lt., age 23, last paid to 8 Feb. 1864, due soldier $31.95, bounty
due $340.00, enlisted as Private 1
Dec. 1861, appointed Sgt. by Col. on 22 Dec. 1861, promoted Sgt-Major
1 June 1863 at Parkersburg,
W.Va., was enrolled as a Private 9 Feb. 1864, promoted to Sgt. Major
9 Feb. 1864, promoted to 2nd
Lieutenant 14 Nov. 1864 vice James McGill dismissed.
Misc Record: Company “C” Muster Out Roll, Cumberland, Md. Date:
24 Dec.1864:
Sergeant, age 21, promoted to Sgt. Major 1 June 1863.
Misc Record: Individual Muster In Roll, Kearnstown, Va., Dated:
17 Nov. 1864:
Age 21, 2nd Lieutenant, muster in to date 15 Nov. 1864, enrolled 15
Nov. 1864 at Kearnstown, Va.
for unexpired term of service, discharged the service as Sgt. Major
11th W.Va. Infty Vols. 14 Nov.
1864 by order of Major General Crook comdg Army of West Virginia.
COMPANY “A” MUSTER ROLLS (1865)
Name: Ayers, Michael Company “ A “ 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry
Jan & Feb/dated: Rank: 2nd Lt. Present
Remarks: 2nd Lt. In Company “A”; enrolled 15 Nov. 1864 at Wheeling,
WVA for 3 years; promoted
to Major 15 Feb. 1865.
Mar & Apr/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
May & Jun/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
Jul & Aug/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
Sep & Oct/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
Nov & Dec/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
Misc Record: Returns: 1865
Jan: Actg. Adjt Regt, Present. Feb.:
1st Lt. Co. A, promoted from 2nd Lt. to 1st Lt, 31 Jan 1865,
to Maj. 14 Feb. 1865; Maj., Present, promoted Maj. 14 Feb. 1865.
Mar: Present commanding the
Regt. Apr.: Present for duty.
May: Absent on leave of absence since 16 May 1865.
Misc Record: Individual Muster Out Roll, Chapins Farm, Va., Dated:
31 Jan 1865:
2nd Lt., age 21, muster out to date 30 Jan 1865, pay due from date
of muster, muster out for
promotion in same regt by virtue of a commission from the Governor
of W.Va. dated 25 Jan 1865 vice
1st Lt. Mountz resigned, was first mustered as Private 1 Dec. 1861
and remustered as Veteran
Volunteer 9 Feb. 1865.
Misc Record: Individual Muster In Roll, Chapins Farm, Va., Dated:
31 Jan 1865:
1st Lt., age 21, enrolled 31 Jan 1865 at Chapins Farm, Va. for unexpired
term of Veteran enlistment,
muster in to date 31 Jan 1865, this officer was a 2nd Lt. in same regt,
was promoted by virtue of a
commission from the Governor of W.Va. dated 25 Jan 1865 vice
1st Lt. Mountz resigned.
FIELD & STAFF MUSTER ROLLS (1865)
Name: Ayers, Michael Company “ F & S “ 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry
Jan & Feb/dated: Rank: Major Present Yes
Remarks: Promoted from 1st Lt. to Major 14 Feb. 1865, pay due as 2nd
Lt. to 31 Jan 1865, as 1st Lt
to 14 Feb. 1865.
Mar & Apr/dated: Rank: Major Present Yes
Remarks: Promoted from 1st Lt. to Major 14 Feb. 1865, pay due as 2nd
Lt. to 31 Jan 1865, as 1st Lt
to 14 Feb. 1865.
May & Jun/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
Jul & Aug/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
Sep & Oct/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
Mar.
Nov & Dec/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:
Misc Record: Individual Muster Out Roll, Chapins Farm, Va., Date:
13 Feb.1865:
1st Lt., age 21, muster out to date 13 Feb. 1865, pay due from date
of muster in, muster out for
promotion in same regt by virtue of a commission from the Governor
of W.Va. dated 7 Feb. 1865
vice Maj. Jas L. Simpson, promoted, was mustered into U.S. service
as Veteran Vol. 9 Feb. 1865
Misc Record: Individual Muster In Roll, Chapins Farm, Va., Date:
13 Feb. 1865
Major, age 21, muster in to date 14 Feb. 1865, enrolled
14 Feb. 1865 at Chapins Farm, Va. for
unexpired term of Veteran enlistment. “additional remarks list
promotions & dates as given
previously”
Misc Record: Affidavit of M.A. Ayers given at Richmond, VA. Date:
14 Jun 1865:
Since his entry into service he has never been responsible for any
ordnance, ordnance stores, clothing,
Camp & garrison equipment or Q.M. stores: He has not now
in his possession any such stores or
property of the U.S.:sworn & subscribed before Jas McKinley ?,
1st Lt. & Actg. Adj, 11 WV Vol. Inf.
“1865 records continued on separate sheet of other records 1865”
OTHER RECORDS (1865)
Name: Ayers, Michael Company F & S 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry
Misc Record: Field & Stall Muster Out Roll, Richmond, Va.
Dated: 17 June 1865
Major 11th W.Va. Vol. Infty, muster out to date 17 June 1865, last
paid to 31 March 1865, entered as
Private, promoted Sgt. 24 Dec. 1861, promoted to Sgt. Major 1 June
1863, promoted to 2nd Lt. 15
Nov. 1864, promoted 1st Lt. 31 Jan 1865, promoted Major 14 Feb.
1865, pay due as 2nd Lt. to 31
Jan 1865 as 1st Lt. to 14 Feb. 1865, This officer will receive
no final payment until satisfying the Pay
Dept. that he is not indebted to the Govt. of the US on any account
whatever.
Misc Record: Affidavit of M.A. Ayers given at Wheeling, W.Va.,
Dated: 26 June 1865
“information similar to affidavit given at Richmond, Va. 14 June 65”
“"There were other military service records which were not included for reasons of poor originals or reproductions not clear or legible enough from which to obtain reliable extracts "
RECORDS FROM PENSION FILES
Name: Ayers, Michael A. Company “F & S, A, C“ 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry
Misc Record: War Department, Adjutant General Office, Washington, DC
Dated: 27 Aug. 1879:
Information from files at this office relating to Pension Application
No. 273.518 in reply to request
from the Commissioner of Pensions: Michael
A. Ayers was enrolled 1 Dec. 1861 at Smithville, Va.
in Company C, 11th W.Va. to serve 3 years. Was mustered in as
Sergeant on 22 Dec. 1861 at
Elizabeth, Va. in Company C, 11th W.VA. to serve 3 years.
On Company Muster Rolls = For Jan & Feb. 1862 (first on file) Present
for duty as Michael A. Ayers.
Same to roll for July & Aug. 1863 when reported sergeant, promoted
to Sergeant Maj. 11 Aug. 1863.
On Muster Rolls of Field & Staff = To June 30, 1864 reported Sergeant
Major, Present for duty, he
re-enlisted as a Veteran Volunteer 9 Feb. 1864. For Jul. &
Aug. 1864 reported absent sick in hospital,
Parkersburg, W.VA. 9 July 1864. For Sept. & Oct. 1864 reported
absent on Veteran Furlough. For
Nov. & Dec. 1864 name not borne.
On Field & Staff Muster Out Roll = Reported Sergeant Maj., promoted to 2nd Lt. 15 Nov. 1864.
On Regimental Returns = For Jan 1862 (first on file) does not report
absent enlisted men by name. It
shows 8 enlisted men present sick - by recapitulation - names not stated.
This man was discharged to date 15 Nov. 1864 for promotion to 2nd Lieutenant
same Co. & Regt.
The records of this office afford no evidence of disease Jan. 1862.
(signed) S.V. Benjamin ?, A.A.G.
by “illegible”
Misc Record: War Department, Adjutant General Office, Washington,
DC Dated: 29 Aug. 1879
Information from files at this office relating to Pension Application
No. 273.518 in reply to request
from the Commissioner of Pensions: Michael
A. Ayers mustered into service of the U.S. as 2nd Lt.
Co. A , 11th W.VA. Vols. to date 15 Nov. 1864 to serve unexpired term;
as 1st Lt. to date Jan 31,
1865; as Major Feb. 14, 1865 and mustered out with Field & Staff
15 June 1865; Muster Roll of Co.
A to Dec. 31, 1864 reports him absent, Actg. Adjt. Subsequent
rolls of Field & Staff report him
present for duty. (signed) ? ? Nickerson ?, A.A.G.
Misc Record: War Dept, Surg. Genls Office, Record & Pension Div.,Wash,
DC Dated: 11 Dec. 1879
From records filed in this office, Michael A. Ayers, Sgt. Major, Co.
__, 11th W.VA. Vols. was
admitted to General Hospital, Parkersburg, W.VA. 9 July 1864 from Regimental
Hospital with acute
Diarrhea & returned to duty 9 Sept. 1864. The Regimental
Records are not on file. (signed ? ?
Woodward, Surgeon, U.S. Army per (illegible) - Vol. 50, No. 4036.
Misc Record: State of W.VA., County of Ritchie, Dated: 5? Nov.?,1880
Affidavit of Michael A. Ayers in matter of additional evidence in invalid
claim no. 273.518 - 3 years
before his enlistment in Company C, 11th W.VA. Infty in Dec. 1861,
his P.O. address was Dekalb, he
“Pension records continued on next sheet”
(sheet of
)
RECORDS FROM PENSION FILES
Name: Ayers, Michael A. Company “F & S, A, C“ 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry
Misc Record: Continued from previous sheet Dated: 5? Nov.?,1880
living near that point in Gilmer County, W.VA.; he believes it impossible
to obtain testimony of
Regimental Surgeon as to treatment in U.S. service for disease of lungs
(effects of cold on measles) as
he made diligent effort to get testimony of Surgeon E.D.J. Bond who
treated him but could get no
reply to his letters. He learned that Dr. Bond had for some time
been feeble and is now dead; no other
regimental surgeon treated him for said disease; he trusts that hospital
at Parkersburg, W.VA. where
he was treated from June 1864 to Sept. 1864 will show record of such
treatment; his P.O. address is
Smithville, W.VA.. (signed Michael A. Ayers. - Certified by G.W. Amos,
Clerk Ritchie County Court,
W.VA.. (Document stamped “U.S. Pension Office, Dec. 18, 1880”)
Misc Record: State of W.VA., County of Ritchie, Dated: 30 Dec.
1882
Affidavit of Jacob Clammer age 46, resident of Smithville, Ritchie
County, W.VA. in matter in proof
of disability claim no. 273.518 of M.A. Ayers - He is aquatinted with
Michael A. Ayers and knows
said Ayers to be identical to person of that name who volunteered or
enlisted as a Private in Company
C, 11th W.Va. Infty and was discharged at Richmond, Va. 17 June 1865
by reason of General Order,
War Department; Said Ayers while in line of duty at Spencer, W.Va.
on or about 6 Jan 1862 was
attacked with measles in a malignant form and before being fully recovered
was moved to Elizabeth,
W.Va. about 18 Jan. 1862; Was 3 days on the trip amid a constant storm
of rain and snow; from this
exposure he took cold and relapse. He was again moved to Arnoldsburg,
W.Va. about 3 or 4 Feb.
1862 and was much exposed on the trip; Claimant continued unable for
duty until about 2 Mar. 1862
when attacked with Pneumonia Fever as a result of said measles and
sick a long time and came very
near dying; Clammer states that he was present with his Company all
this time and knows the facts
from personal observation; Clammer further states that claimant was
attended by physician, Dr.
Chapman of Spencer, W.Va., an aged man now long since dead; There was
no Surgeon or Actg
Surgeon with the command at that time; Dr. A.. Voorheis who was commissioned
Surgeon of the
Regiment about the spring of 1862 was not with this detachment of the
Regiment but was at
Parkersburg, W.Va. at the time; He is also now dead; Clammer further
states that he has known
claimant personally since that time and knows that he suffered with
serious affection of the throat and
lungs while he remained in the service and still continues to suffer
with the same; He has known
claimant for at least 20 years; Clammer served as Captain of Company
C, 11th W.Va. and knew
claimant from that time to the present as a neighbor to 24 Dec. 1864;
Clammer P.O. address is
Smithville, Ritchie Co., W.Va. (signed) Jacob Clammer, late Captain
Co. C, 11th W.Va. Infty -
Certified by E.C. Goff, Justice. (Document stamped “Pension Office,
Jan. 10, 1883”)
Misc Record: State of W.Va., County of Ritchie, Dated: 19
Oct. .1885:
Declaration of Pensioner for restoration to the Rolls under Section
26, Act of March 1873 -
Declaration of Michael A. Ayers, age 44, identical to M.A. Ayers who
was on Pension Rolls of
Agency at Knoxville, Tenn., Certificate No. 252200; was last paid to
4 April 1883; since resided at
Smithville, Ritchie County, W.Va.; had recently been granted a pension;
claims restoration on
disability arising from disease of throat & lungs & stomach;
Also an increase in pension having been
rated too low; His P.O. Address is Smithville, Ritchie County, W.Va.
(signed) Michael A. Ayers.
(witnesses) D.F. Hammond & W.G. Miller of Ritchie County. - Certified
by Certified by G.W.
Amos, Clerk Ritchie County Court, W.Va. ....................................
“Pension records continued on next sheet”
RECORDS FROM PENSION FILES
Name: Ayers, Michael A. Company “F & S, A, C“ 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry
Misc Record: State of W.Va., County of Ritchie, Dated: 23 July 1890:
Declaration for Invalid Pension, Act of June 27, 1890 - Declaration
of Michael A. Ayers, age 46,
resident of Smithville, Ritchie County, W.Va.; Was enrolled 22 Dec.
1861 in Company C, 11th
W.Va. Infty; was honorably discharged at Richmond, Va. 17 June 1865;
is totally unable to earn
support because of throat, stomach and heart disease; he was pensioner
under certificate no.
252.200; his P.O. address is Smithville, Ritchie County, W.Va. (signed)
Michael A. Ayers.
(witnesses) Will. ? A. Strickler & C.K. Pierpoint.
Misc Record: Dept of the Interior, Bureau of Pensions, Washington,
DC Dated: 15 Jan 1898
Request form the Commissioner of Pensions for information. Pensioner
M.A. Ayers, Certificate No.
252.200. (signed) H. Clay Evans, Commissioner:
Reply dated 5 May 1898: Married; wife’s
maiden name Mary Smith; married by Rev. Sanford 16 Nov. 1865 at Smithville,
W.Va.; record of
license in Co. Court Clerks Office; Not previously married; Living
children = Hugh B. b. 2 Oct.
1869, Alberta G. b. 13 Mar. 1873, Cassius W. b. 31 Mar. 1879, Allen
A. b. 13 Apr. 1882. (signed)
Michael A. Ayers.
Misc Record: State of W.Va., County of Ritchie, Dated: 20
May 1912
Declaration Of Michael A. Ayers for pension, Act of May 11, 1912 -
Age 71, resident of Smithville,
Ritchie Co., W.Va.; enrolled at Elizabeth, Wirt County, W.Va. 22 Dec.
1861 as a Private in Co. C,
11th W.Va. Infty Vols. in service of the U.S. In the Civil War; was
honorably discharged at
Richmond, Va. 17 June 1865; Description at enlistment was 5’-7”, fair
complexion, gray eyes, light
hair, farmer, born Nov. 20, 1840 at Lonacoming, Allegheny Co., Md.;
resided at Smithville, W.Va.
since leaving service; Pensioner under Certificate No. 252.200; P.O.
address is Smithville, Ritchie
Co., W.Va. (signed) Michael A. Ayers (witnesses) J.M. Rymer ? &
F. L. ? Bush - Certified by Allen
A. Ayers, Notary Public whose commission expired 18 April 1890.
Misc Record: State of W.Va., County of Ritchie, Dated: 1
Aug. 1912
Declaration for Widows Pension, Act of April 19, 1908 - Declaration
of Mary Ayers, age 66,
resident of Smithville, Ritchie Co., W.VA.; widow of Michael A. Ayers
who enrolled at Smithville,
W.VA. on 20 Nov. 1861 as a Private in Co. C, 11thW.VA. Vol. Infty and
was honorably discharged
on 17 June 1865 and who died at Smithville, W.Va. on 25 June 1912;
she was married under the
name of Mary Smith to soldier at Smithville, W.VA. on 16 Nov. 1865
by V. Sanford; she was not
previously married; soldier left no children living under age of 16;
she had not previously applied for
pension; her P.O. address is Smithville, Ritchie Co., W.Va. (signed)
Mary Ayers (witness) W.H.
Westfall & H.B. Woods. (Document stamped “U.S. Pension Office,
3 Aug. 1912”)
Misc Record: Dept. of the Interior, Bureau of Pensions, Washington,
DC Dated: 15 Aug. 1912
Drop Order & Report - M.A. Ayers, Certificate No. 252.200 Act of
Feb. 6, 1907; soldier, Sgt.
Company C & Major 11th W.Va. Inf.; pensioner died 25 June 1912;
drop from roll directed by J.L.
Davenport, Commissioner; pensioner was last paid to 4 June 1912 at
$15.00 per month. (signed)
Jno. R. King, Agent, 21 Aug. 1912.
“Pension records continued on next sheet”
RECORDS FROM PENSION FILES
Name: Ayers, Michael A. Company “F & S, A, C“ 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry
Misc Record: Accrued Pension, Invalid Class Dated: 10 Oct.
1912
Certificate No. 252.200, Act of Feb. 6, 1907, Pensioner M.A. Ayers
died 25 June 1912, Certificate
not filed, Claimant Mary Ayers, widow, Smithville, Ritchie County,
W.Va.; submitted 10 Oct. 1912;
F. Candy ? examiner, approved for admission; pay widow as above; Geo.
S. Livingston reviewer 18
Oct. 1912; T.M. Riffel reviewer 21 Oct. 1912; (M.C.) Hon. P.M. Hamilton.;
no atty.
Misc Record: Smithville. W.Va., Dated: 30 Oct. 1916
Request for increase in pension under Act of 8 Sept. 1916; Widows Certificate
No. 74881; soldier
M.A. Ayers, Major 11th W.Va. Infty; she was not married to soldier
during his service; she is 70
years old; she was born 7 May 1846 at Smithville, W.Va. (signed) Mary
Ayers; P.O. address
Smithville, W.Va. (Document stamped “U.S. Pension Office, Nov. 2, 1916”)
Misc Record: Dated:
Misc Record: Dated:
MICHAEL A. AYERS, 11TH W.VA. INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS
SERGEANT OF COMPANY “C”, SERGEANT MAJOR OF THE REGIMENT , 2ND &
1ST LIEUTENANT OF COMPANY “A” AND MAJOR OF THE REGIMENT
RECORDS FROM THE WEST VIRGINIA ARCHIVES
Record Group AR633 - List of Officers in 11th W.VA. Volunteers - Listed
Commissioned Major. Commissioned Major 7 Feb. 1865; Commissioned
2nd Lt. 7? Sept. 1864.
----------------------------------------------------
Record Group AR 635 - Record of Company A, 11th W.Va. Volunteers
- (1st Listing) Lists Michael A. Ayers, 2nd Lt., Age 21, enlisted Kernstown,
Va. 15 Nov. 1864 for unexpired term of service. Mustered in 17 Nov.
1864 (to date 15 Nov. 64) at Kernstown, Va., credited to Gilmer County,
W.Va. ; promoted to 1st Lt. vice Mountz resigned. (2nd Listing) Lists
Michael A. Ayers, 1st Lt., age 21, enlisted 31 Jan 1865 at Chapins Farm,
Va. for unexpired term of service, mustered in 31 Jan 1865 at Chapins Farm,
Va., promoted to Major.
-----------------------------------------------------
Record Group AR 639 - Description Book Company C, 11th W.VA. Volunteers
- Michael A. Ayers, Age 21, 5’-6”, fair complexion, gray eyes, light hair,
born Allegheny Co., Md., Farmer, enlisted 1 Dec. 1861 at Smithville, Va.
by James L. Simpson for 3 years.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INFORMATION FROM MILITARY SERVICE RECORDS NATIONAL ARCHIVES MICROFILM
RECORDS SERIES M508, ROLLS 185 THROUGH 195 AND 243. (Researched and compiled
by James A. Libertini)
-------------------------------------------------------
1861
Company Muster in Roll: Capt. Simpsons Company 11th Regt Va. Foot Volunteers,
Elizabeth, Wirt County, Va. 22 Dec. 1861 - Sergeant, age 20 ?, Muster in
to date 22 Dec. 1861, Enrolled 1 Dec. 1861 at Smithville, Va. for 3 years.
.
-------------------------------------------------------
Company “A” Descriptive Book: Michael A. Ayers, Age 21, 5’-6”, fair
complexion, gray eyes, light hair, born Allegheny Co., Md., Farmer, enlisted
1 Dec. 1861 at Smithville, Va. by James L. Simpson for 3 years. Mustered
22 Dec. 1861, appointed Sergeant Company “C”, 11th W.Va. Vols. 24 Dec.
1861, Appointed Sergeant Major 1 June 1862, Re-enlisted as Veteran Volunteer
9 Feb. 1864, Commissioned 2nd Lieutenant and assigned to Company “A” 15
Nov. 1864.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1862
Company “C” Muster Rolls: Jan &
Feb. and Feb. 28 to Jun 30 and Jul. & Aug. and Aug. 31 to Dec. 31:
Sergeant, Present
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1863
Company “C” Muster Rolls: Jan & Feb.
through May & Jun. and Special Muster Roll dated 17 Apr.: Sergeant,
Present July & Aug.: Sergeant, Present,
Promoted to Sgt. Major 11 Aug. 1863.
Sep. & Oct.: Private ?, Present or absent not stated, Promoted to Sgt.
Major 5 June 1863 Nov. &
Dec.: Sgt. Major, Present or absent not stated, Promoted to Sgt. Major
8 June 1863
Field & Stall Muster Rolls: Jul.
& Aug.: Sergeant Major, Present, promoted from Sgt. to Sgt. Major 1
June 1863. Sep. & Oct. and Nov.
& Dec.: Sergeant Major, Present
---------------------------------------------
Returns: May: On duty, Actg. Sgt. Major, 11th
W.Va. Jun. & July: Absent detached,
Actg. Sgt. Major since 1 June 1863 at Hancock, Md.
Sept.: Sgt. Major, Absent at Regtl Hdqtrs 8 June 1862
Oct. & Nov.: Absent detached 1 June 1863.
Dec.: (Sgt. Co. C) Loss 31 Dec. 1863 at Parkersburg, W.Va., promoted Sgt.
Major 1 Jun. 63 and dropped from Company Rolls 31 Dec. 1863.
---------------------------------------------
Headquarters, Military Commander, Wheeling, 1st Oct. 1863: (to) Captain
T. Moore, A.Q.M, Wheeling: Please furnish transportation for M.A. Ayers,
Sgt. Major 11th VA Vol. Infty - returning guard to Parkersburg, VA (signed)
W.C. Thorpe, 13th Infty, USA & Military Comdr.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1864
Field & Stall Muster Rolls: Jan & Feb.: Sgt. Major, Present.
Mar & Apr. and May & Jun.: Sgt. Major, Present, $50.00 2nd Installment
bounty due on re-enlistment; $8.00 due on 1st months pay by virtue of appointment
as Sgt. Major. Jul. & Aug.: Sgt. Major, Absent,
sick in General Hospital, Parkersburg, W.Va. 9 July 1864. difference in
pay due between Private & Sgt. Major from 8 Feb. to 8 Mar.
Sept. & Oct.: Sgt. Major, Absent on Veteran furlough, difference in
pay due between Private & Sgt. Major from 8 Feb. to 8 Mar.
---------------------------------------------
Company “A” Muster Rolls: Nov. & Dec.: 2nd Lieutenant,
Absent, on special duty, actg. Adjt of regt, enrolled 15 Nov. 1864 at Wheeling,
W.Va.
---------------------------------------------
Returns: July: (Sgt. Major NCS), Absent sick
in hospital, Parkersburg, W.Va. 9 July Sept. &
Oct.: Absent on Veteran furlough 9 Oct. 64. Nov.:
(2nd Lt. Co. A), Present, promoted from Sgt. Major 14 Nov., mustered 15
Nov., assigned to Co. A vice J.H. McGill
Dec.: Present, Actg. Adjt of Regt.
---------------------------------------------
Volunteer Enlistment, State of West Virginia, Parkersburg, W.Va., 9
Feb. 1864: M.A. Ayers, age 23, Farmer, born Allegheny Co., Md., volunteered
9 Feb. 1864 before Lt. A.Q. Mountz - examined by A.D. Voorheis, 11th W.Va.,
examining surgeon, Gray Eyes, Light Hair, Fair Complexion, 5’7” Tall, (signed)
Lt. A.Q. Mountz, 1st lt. Co. A, 11th W.Va.
---------------------------------------------
Declaration of Recruit, Parkersburg, W.Va., 9 Feb. 1864: Michael
A. Ayers volunteered at Parkersburg, W.Va., 9 Feb. 1864 by Lt. A.Q. Mountz,
11th W.Va., 2nd enlistment, last served as Sgt. Major, 11th Regt W.Va.
Vol. Infty, discharged 8 Feb. 1864, age 23 2 months, given at Parkersburg,
W.Va. 9 Feb. 1864, (witness) John H. McLaughlin.
---------------------------------------------
Muster & Descriptive Roll of Veteran Volunteers, Parkersburg, W.Va.
24 Mar 1864: Enlisted 9 Feb. 1864, Mustered 9 Feb. 1864, bounty due
$400.00, re-enlisted as Veteran Volunteer under General Orders 191, War
Dept. of 1863
---------------------------------------------
Individual Muster Out Roll, Parkersburg, W.Va., 28 Mar 1864:
Sgt. Major, muster out to date 8 Feb. 1864, last paid to 31 Dec. 1863,
due soldier on Clothing account $4.50, bounty due $100.00, discharged by
virtue of re-enlistment as Veteran Volunteer under provisions of General
Orders No. 191 from War Dept., series 1863.
---------------------------------------------
Hospital Muster Roll, U.S. General Hospital, Parkersburg, W.Va. for
July & Aug. 1864: Sergeant Major, 11th W.Va. Vols., Absent on
furlough.
U.S.A. General Hospital, Parkersburg, W.Va. (no date): Michael
Ayers, Hospital No. 35., age 21, American; single; Residence
Parkersburg; P.O. Address of nearest relative Moses Ayers, Parkersburg;
Sgt. Major 11th W.Va. Vol. Infty; Admitted to hospital 8 July 1864
from Regtl Hospital; Diagnosis Acute Diarrhea. Returned to
duty 9 Sept. 1864.
---------------------------------------------
Individual Muster In Roll, Kearnstown, Va., 17 Nov. 1864: Age 21, 2nd
Lieutenant, muster in to date 15 Nov. 1864, enrolled 15 Nov. 1864 at Kearnstown,
Va. for unexpired term of service, discharged the service as Sgt. Major
11th W.Va. Infty Vols. 14 Nov. 1864 by order of Major General Crook comdg
Army of West Virginia.
---------------------------------------------
Company “A” Muster Out Roll, Kearnstown, Va., 22 Nov. 1864: 2nd
Lt., age 23, last paid to 8 Feb. 1864, due soldier $31.95, bounty due $340.00,
enlisted as Private 1 Dec. 1861, appointed Sgt. by Col. on 22 Dec. 1861,
promoted Sgt. Major 1 June 1863 at Parkersburg, W.Va., was enrolled as
a Private 9 Feb. 1864, promoted to Sgt. Major 9 Feb. 1864, promoted to
2nd Lieutenant 14 Nov. 1864 vice James McGill dismissed.
---------------------------------------------
Company “C” Muster Out Roll, Cumberland, Md. 24 Dec. 1864: Sergeant,
age 21, promoted to Sgt. Major 1 June 1863.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1865
Company “A” Muster Rolls: 28 Feb.: 2nd Lieutenant, Present
or absent not stated, Enrolled 15 Nov. 1864 at Wheeling, W.Va. for 3 years,
promoted to Major 15 Feb. 1865.
---------------------------------------------
Field & Stall Muster Rolls: Jan & Feb. and
Mar & Apr.: Major, Present, promoted from 1st Lt. to Major 14 Feb.
1865, pay due as 2nd Lt. to 31 Jan 1865 as 1st Lt. to 14 Feb. 1865.
---------------------------------------------
Individual Muster Out Roll, Chapins Farm, Va., 31 Jan 1865: 2nd
Lt., age 21, muster out to date 30 Jan 1865, pay due from date of muster,
muster out for promotion in same regt by virtue of a commission from the
Governor of W.Va. dated 25 Jan 1865 vice 1st Lt. Mountz resigned, was first
mustered as Private 1 Dec. 1861 and remustered as Veteran Volunteer 9 Feb.
1865.
---------------------------------------------
Individual Muster In Roll, Chapins Farm, Va., 31 Jan 1865: 1st
Lt., age 21, enrolled 31 Jan 1865 at Chapins Farm, Va. for unexpired term
of Veteran enlistment, muster in to date 31 Jan 1865, this officer was
a 2nd Lt. in same regt, was promoted by virtue of a commission from the
Governor of W.Va. dated 25 Jan 1865 vice 1st Lt. Mountz resigned.
---------------------------------------------
Individual Muster Out Roll, Chapins Farm, Va., 13 Feb. 1865:
1st Lt., age 21, muster out to date 13 Feb. 1865, pay due from date of
muster in, muster out for promotion in same regt by virtue of a commission
from the Governor of W.Va. dated 7 Feb. 1865 vice Major James L. Simpson,
promoted, was mustered into U.S. service as Veteran Volunteer 9 Feb. 1865.
----------------------------------------------
Individual Muster In Roll, Chapins Farm, Va., 13 Feb. 1865: Major,
age 21, muster in to date 14 Feb. 1865, enrolled 14 Feb. 1865 at Chapins
Farm, Va. for unexpired term of Veteran enlistment. “additional remarks
list promotions & dates as given previously”
---------------------------------------------
Affidavit of M.A. Ayers given at Richmond, VA. 14 June 1865:
Since his entry into the service he has never been responsible for any
ordnance, ordnance stores, clothing, Camp & garrison equipment or
Q.M. stores........He has not now in his possession any such
stores or property of the U.S.......sworn & subscribed before Jas McKinley
?, 1st Lt. & Actg. Adjt, 11th W.Va. Vol. Infty.
---------------------------------------------
Field & Stall Muster Out Roll, Richmond, Va. 17 June 1865: Major
11th W.Va. Vol. Infty, muster out to date 17 June 1865, last paid to 31
March 1865, entered as Private, promoted Sgt. 24 Dec. 1861, promoted to
Sgt. Major 1 June 1863, promoted to 2nd Lt. 15 Nov. 1864, promoted 1st
Lt. 31 Jan 1865, promoted Major 14 Feb. 1865, pay due as 2nd Lt. to 31
Jan 1865 as 1st Lt. to 14 Feb. 1865, This officer will receive no final
payment until satisfying the Pay Dept. that he is not indebted to the Govt.
of the US on any account whatever.
--------------------------------------------
Returns: Jan: Actg. Adjt Regt, Present.
Feb.: 1st Lt. Co. A, promoted from 2nd Lieutenant. to 1st Lieutenant 31
Jan 1865, to Major 14 Feb. 1865; Major, Present, promoted Major 14 Feb.
1865. Mar: Present commanding the Regt.
Apr.: Present for duty. May: Absent
on leave of absence since 16 May 1865.
--------------------------------------------
Affidavit of M.A. Ayers given at Wheeling, W.Va., 26 June 1865:
“information similar to affidavit given at Richmond, Va. 14 June 65”
---------------------------------------------
“"There were other military service records which were not included
for reasons of poor originals or reproductions not clear or legible enough
from which to obtain reliable extracts "
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INFORMATION FROM PENSION RECORDS OBTAINED FROM THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES,
WASHINGTON, DC. (Researched and compiled by James A. Libertini)
---------------------------------------------
1879
War Department, Adjutant General Office, Washington, DC, 27 Aug. 1879: Information from files at this office relating to Pension Application No. 273.518 in reply to request from the Commissioner of Pensions: Michael A. Ayers was enrolled 1 Dec. 1861 at Smithville, Va. in Company C, 11th W.Va. to serve 3 years. Was mustered in as Sergeant on 22 Dec. 1861 at Elizabeth, Va. in Company C, 11th W.VA. to serve 3 years.
On Company Muster Rolls = For Jan & Feb. 1862 (first on file) Present for duty as Michael A. Ayers. Same to roll for July & Aug. 1863 when reported sergeant, promoted to Sergeant Maj. 11 Aug. 1863.
On Muster Rolls of Field & Staff = To June 30, 1864 reported Sergeant Major, Present for duty, he re-enlisted as a Veteran Volunteer 9 Feb. 1864. For Jul. & Aug. 1864 reported absent sick in hospital, Parkersburg, W.VA. 9 July 1864. For Sept. & Oct. 1864 reported absent on Veteran Furlough. For Nov. & Dec. 1864 name not borne.
On Field & Staff Muster Out Roll = Reported Sergeant Maj., promoted to 2nd Lt. 15 Nov. 1864.
On Regimental Returns = For Jan 1862 (first on file) does not report absent enlisted men by name. It shows 8 enlisted men present sick - by recapitulation - names not stated.
This man was discharged to date 15 Nov. 1864 for promotion to 2nd Lieutenant
same Co. & Regt. The records of this office afford no evidence
of disease Jan. 1862. (signed) S.V. Benjamin ?, A.A.G. by “illegible”
War Department, Adjutant General Office, Washington, DC, 29 Aug.
1879: :Information from files at this office relating to Pension Application
No. 273.518 in reply to request from the Commissioner of Pensions:
Michael A. Ayers mustered into service of the U.S. as 2nd Lt. Co. A , 11th
W.VA. Vols. to date 15 Nov. 1864 to serve unexpired term; as 1st Lt. to
date Jan 31, 1865; as Major Feb. 14, 1865 and mustered out with Field &
Staff 15 June 1865; Muster Roll of Co. A to Dec. 31, 1864 reports him absent,
Actg. Adjt. Subsequent rolls of Field & Staff report him present
for duty. (signed) ? ? Nickerson ?, A.A.G.
---------------------------------------------
War Department, Surgeon Generals Office, Record & Pension Division,
Washington, DC, 11 Dec. 1879: From records filed in this office, Michael
A. Ayers, Sgt. Major, Co. __, 11th W.VA. Vols. was admitted to General
Hospital, Parkersburg, W.VA. 9 July 1864 from Regimental Hospital with
acute Diarrhea & returned to duty 9 Sept. 1864. The Regimental
Records are not on file. (signed ? ? Woodward, Surgeon, U.S.
Army per (illegible) - Vol. 50, No. 4036.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1880
State of W.VA., County of Ritchie, 5 ? Nov. ?, 1880: Affidavit of Michael
A. Ayers in matter of additional evidence in invalid claim no. 273.518
- 3 years before his enlistment in Company C, 11th W.VA. Infty in Dec.
1861, his P.O. address was Dekalb, he living near that point in Gilmer
County, W.VA.; he believes it impossible to obtain testimony of Regimental
Surgeon as to treatment in U.S. service for disease of lungs (effects of
cold on measles) as he made diligent effort to get testimony of Surgeon
E.D.J. Bond who treated him but could get no reply to his letters.
He learned that Dr. Bond had for some time been feeble and is now dead;
no other regimental surgeon treated him for said disease; he trusts that
hospital at Parkersburg, W.VA. where he was treated from June 1864 to Sept.
1864 will show record of such treatment; his P.O. address is Smithville,
W.VA.. (signed Michael A. Ayers. - Certified by G.W. Amos, Clerk Ritchie
County Court, W.VA.. (Document stamped “U.S. Pension Office, Dec. 18, 1880”)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1882
State of W.VA., County of Ritchie, 30 Dec. 1882: Affidavit of Jacob
Clammer age 46, resident of Smithville, Ritchie County, W.VA. in matter
in proof of disability claim no. 273.518 of M.A. Ayers - He is aquatinted
with Michael A. Ayers and knows said Ayers to be identical to person of
that name who volunteered or enlisted as a Private in Company C, 11th W.Va.
Infty and was discharged at Richmond, Va. 17 June 1865 by reason of General
Order, War Department; Said Ayers while in line of duty at Spencer, W.Va.
on or about 6 Jan 1862 was attacked with measles in a malignant form and
before being fully recovered was moved to Elizabeth, W.Va. about 18 Jan.
1862; Was 3 days on the trip amid a constant storm of rain and snow; from
this exposure he took cold and relapse. He was again moved to Arnoldsburg,
W.Va. about 3 or 4 Feb. 1862 and was much exposed on the trip; Claimant
continued unable for duty until about 2 Mar. 1862 when attacked with Pneumonia
Fever as a result of said measles and sick a long time and came very near
dying; Clammer states that he was present with his Company all this time
and knows the facts from personal observation; Clammer further states that
claimant was attended by physician, Dr. Chapman of Spencer, W.Va., an aged
man now long since dead; There was no Surgeon or Actg Surgeon with the
command at that time; Dr. A.. Voorheis who was commissioned Surgeon of
the Regiment about the spring of 1862 was not with this detachment of the
Regiment but was at Parkersburg, W.Va. at the time; He is also now dead;
Clammer further states that he has known claimant personally since that
time and knows that he suffered with serious affection of the throat and
lungs while he remained in the service and still continues to suffer with
the same; He has known claimant for at least 20 years; Clammer served as
Captain of Company C, 11th W.Va. and knew claimant from that
time to the present as a neighbor to 24 Dec. 1864; Clammer P.O. address
is Smithville, Ritchie Co., W.Va. (signed) Jacob Clammer, late Captain
Co. C, 11th W.Va. Infty - Certified by E.C. Goff, Justice. (Document stamped
“Pension Office, Jan. 10, 1883”)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1885
State of W.Va., County of Ritchie, 19 Oct. .1885: Declaration of Pensioner
for restoration to the Rolls under Section 26, Act of March 1873 - Declaration
of Michael A. Ayers, age 44, identical to M.A. Ayers who was on Pension
Rolls of Agency at Knoxville, Tenn., Certificate No. 252200; was last paid
to 4 April 1883; since resided at Smithville, Ritchie County, W.Va.; had
recently been granted a pension; claims restoration on disability arising
from disease of throat & lungs & stomach; Also an increase in pension
having been rated too low; His P.O. Address is Smithville, Ritchie County,
W.Va. (signed) Michael A. Ayers. (witnesses) D.F. Hammond & W.G. Miller
of Ritchie County. - Certified by Certified by G.W. Amos, Clerk Ritchie
County Court, W.Va.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1890
State of W.Va., County of Ritchie, 23 July 1890: Declaration for Invalid
Pension, Act of June 27, 1890 - Declaration of Michael A. Ayers, age 46,
resident of Smithville, Ritchie County, W.Va.; Was enrolled 22 Dec. 1861
in Company C, 11th W.Va. Infty; was honorably discharged at Richmond, Va.
17 June 1865; is totally unable to earn support because of throat, stomach
and heart disease; he was pensioner under certificate no. 252.200; his
P.O. address is Smithville, Ritchie County, W.Va. (signed) Michael A. Ayers.
(witnesses) Will. ? A. Strickler & C.K. Pierpoint.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1898
Department of the Interior, Bureau of Pensions, Washington, DC, 15 Jan
1898: Request form the Commissioner of Pensions for information. Pensioner
M.A. Ayers, Certificate No. 252.200. (signed) H. Clay Evans, Commissioner:
Reply dated 5 May 1898: Married; wife’s maiden name Mary Smith; married
by Rev. Sanford 16 Nov. 1865 at Smithville, W.Va.; record of license in
Co. Court Clerks Office; Not previously married; Living children = Hugh
B. b. 2 Oct. 1869, Alberta G. b. 13 Mar. 1873, Cassius W. b. 31 Mar. 1879,
Allen A. b. 13 Apr. 1882. (signed) Michael A. Ayers.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1912
State of W.Va., County of Ritchie, 20 May 1912: Declaration Of Michael
A. Ayers for pension, Act of May 11, 1912 - Age 71, resident of Smithville,
Ritchie Co., W.Va.; enrolled at Elizabeth, Wirt County, W.Va. 22 Dec. 1861
as a Private in Co. C, 11th W.Va. Infty Vols. in service of the U.S. In
the Civil War; was honorably discharged at Richmond, Va. 17 June 1865;
Description at enlistment was 5’-7”, fair complexion, gray eyes, light
hair, farmer, born Nov. 20, 1840 at Lonacoming, Allegheny Co., Md.; resided
at Smithville, W.Va. since leaving service; Pensioner under Certificate
No. 252.200; P.O. address is Smithville, Ritchie Co., W.Va. (signed) Michael
A. Ayers (witnesses) J.M. Rymer ? & F. L. ? Bush - Certified by Allen
A. Ayers, Notary Public whose commission expired 18 April 1890.
---------------------------------------------
State of W.Va., County of Ritchie, 1 Aug. 1912: Declaration for Widows
Pension, Act of April 19, 1908 - Declaration of Mary Ayers, age 66, resident
of Smithville, Ritchie Co., W.VA.; widow of Michael A. Ayers who enrolled
at Smithville, W.VA. on 20 Nov. 1861 as a Private in Co. C, 11th
W.VA. Vol. Infty and was honorably discharged on 17 June 1865
and who died at Smithville, W.Va. on 25 June 1912; she was married under
the name of Mary Smith to soldier at Smithville, W.VA. on 16 Nov. 1865
by V. Sanford; she was not previously married; soldier left no children
living under age of 16; she had not previously applied for pension; her
P.O. address is Smithville, Ritchie Co., W.Va. (signed) Mary Ayers (witness)
W.H. Westfall & H.B. Woods. (Document stamped “U.S. Pension Office,
3 Aug. 1912”)
---------------------------------------------
Department of the Interior, Bureau of Pensions, Washington, DC, 15
Aug. 1912: Drop Order & Report - M.A. Ayers, Certificate No. 252.200
Act of Feb. 6, 1907; soldier, Sgt. Company C & Major 11th W.Va. Inf.;
pensioner died 25 June 1912; drop from roll directed by J.L. Davenport,
Commissioner; pensioner was last paid to 4 June 1912 at $15.00 per month.
(signed) Jno. R. King, Agent, 21 Aug. 1912.
---------------------------------------------
Accrued Pension, Invalid Class: Certificate No. 252.200, Act of Feb.
6, 1907, Pensioner M.A. Ayers died 25 June 1912, Certificate not filed,
Claimant Mary Ayers, widow, Smithville, Ritchie County, W.Va.; submitted
10 Oct. 1912; F. Candy ? examiner, approved for admission; pay widow as
above; Geo. S. Livingston reviewer 18 Oct. 1912; T.M. Riffel reviewer 21
Oct. 1912; (M.C.) Hon. P.M. Hamilton.; no atty.
---------------------------------------------
Smithville. W.Va., 30 Oct. 1916: Request for increase in pension under
Act of 8 Sept. 1916; Widows Certificate No. 74881; soldier M.A. Ayers,
Major 11th W.Va. Infty; she was not married to soldier during his service;
she is 70 years old; she was born 7 May 1846 at Smithville, W.Va. (signed)
Mary Ayers; P.O. address Smithville, W.Va. (Document stamped “U.S. Pension
Office, Nov. 2, 1916”)
---------------------------------------------
==END==
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