History: 1804-1805: Genealogical Data contained in the Statutes at Large, Commonwealth of PA ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/pafiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Vi. P. Limric vi35@localnet.com ************************************************ Source: The Statues at Large of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg PA, 1911 LAWS PASSED SESSION 1803/04 HARRISBURG, PA. THOMAS M'KEAN, Governor SIMON SNYDER, Speaker of the House of Representatives ROBERT WHITEHILL, Speaker of the Senate. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In General Assembly met and is hereby enacted by the Authority of the Same. 4. An act altering and erecting election districts in the county of Somerset. That part of Stoney Creek twp., Somerset county, shall be annexed to the Quimahoning district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by JOHN POWL, in Stoystown. That the remainder of Stoney Creek twp., Somerset county, shall be annexed to the district of Brothers valley twp., and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by JOHN FLACHER, in the town of Berlin. That Elklick twp. Somerset county, shall be a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by JOHN WELCH. That Addison twp., Somerset county, shall be a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by JOHN MITCHELL ESQ. 7 Jan 1804. 5. An act to quit the claim of JAMES GUNN, to the estates of GENERAL JAMES GUNN, dec. Whereas, General James Gunn, late a senator of the United States from the state of Georgia, died without issue, and was seized of estates, real and personal, within this commonwealth, and it has been suggested, that the estates have escheated for want of heirs, or known kindred, and whereas, the state of Georgia passed an act 22 Nov 1802, stating General James Gunn left a will, but it was lost or stolen, and it was his intention that his nephew James Gunn, of the state of VA, should inherit, therefore, all the right and title which the commonwealth may have acquired by reason of escheat are vested in James Gunn, of the state of VA., nephew. 11 Jan 1804. 6. An act authorizing administrators to convey a messuage and tract of land, situate in New Hanover twp., Montgomery county. Whereas, ELIZABETH SHINER, CHRISTIAN SHINER and JOHN NEYMAN, administrators of CHRISTOPHEL SHINER, late of Colebrookdale twp., Berks country, dec., have set forth that MELCHIOR SHINER, late of New Hanover twp., in the county of (then Philadelphia) Montgomery, dec., who was seized of a messuage, tenement and tract of land, containing 140 acres, having first made his last will and testament, dated 19 Jun 1778, duly proved and in the office of Philadelphia, wherein he directed that after the decease of his widow, and the premises should be sold and empowered his son Christophel Shiner, to give deeds to the purchasers, that the widow has deceased, the property was sold to AMOS JONES, at 3 pounds, and 16 shillings per acre, but since the sale Christophel also died intestate, and no conveyance having been made unto Amos Jones, therefore, the administrators of Christophel Shiner, late of Colebrookdale twp., Berks county, dec., are hereby authorized to convey unto Amos Jones, the tract of land. 14 Jan 1804. 8. An act for the relief of JOHN LONEY. Whereas, John Loney, has fully shown that in the month of June 1797 he settled on a tract of land on the head waters of Oil Creek, in Union twp., Erie county, and continued to reside with his family, thereon, until Mar 1799, having cleared 8 or 10 acres of land, when by a fall of a tree, he was crushed and wounded, so as to render him incapable of prosecuting his improvement and continuing his residence, and has since been supported by the charity of others, and that he is still a cripple, and likely to continue so for life, and he prays he may be exonerated from the condition of further residence, and no other person is claiming the tract, therefore, John Loney is exonerated from the condition of further residence, and improvement, and the land office is authorized to complete a title to the tract. 14 Jan 1804. 9. An act enabling trustees to sell and dispose real estate. Whereas by the court of York county, HENRY MECKLEY, has been adjudged a lunatic, and GEORGE MECKLEY, ANTHONY WILLET and JACOB KELLER, were appointed trustees, to take care of the person and estate of Henry Meckley, and whereas the estate is encumbered with debts, therefore, it shall be lawful for the trustees to sell and convey the real estate of Henry Meckley, a lunatic, or any part as may be necessary for the payment of debts, and maintance and support of the lunatic, and to make to the purchaser a deed of conveyance. 14 Jan 1804. 11. An act to dissolve the marriage contract between SAMUEL SWAN and HANNAH SWAN his wife. Whereas Hannah Swan, of Northumberland county, in the year 1781, married SAMUEL SWAN, with whom she lived until 1791, that in the month of May, Swan relinquished her, and never returned, and that Samuel Swan in 1795 was married to and cohabits with another woman, and it appears that Samuel Swan was actually intermarried and cohabits with another woman, and now or late residing in the state of Kentucky, therefore, the marriage contract of Samuel Swan and Hannah his wife, is hereby declared annulled and to all intents they are declared to be separate and totally discharged from the matrimonial contract, and from all duties as if they had never been joined in matrimony. 20 Jan 1804. 13. An act erecting the townships of Rockhill, Bedminster, and Hillstown, in Bucks county, into an election district. The above townships shall form an election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by HENRY TRUMBOUR, in Rockhill twp. 20 Jan 1804. 14. An act for the relief of ALEXANDER BOATICAR. Whereas Alexander Boaticar, a native of the kingdom of Great Britain, having arrived in this state with an intention of residing therein, in the month of July, 1802, he purchased of WILLIAM READ and MATTHEW PEARCE, two messuages and tract of land, at Creesham, otherwise called Chestnut Hill, in Germantown twp., Philadelphia county, one of the tracts bounded by land late in the tensure of WIGGARD MILLER, by land late of SAMUEL MUMMY, later described by land of MICHAEL MILBERGER, by a road leading back to a paper mill and grist mill, by land now or late of ABRAHAM TUNIS, by the line of Roxborough twp., containing 124.75 acres, and the other tract by land of WIGGARD MILLER, by the late JULIUS KARPER's land, containing 6 acres, 110 perches, and Alexander Boaticar has since sold the described tracts to LEWIS BOLLMAN, therefore, the title to all the above tracts acquired by Alexander Boaticar, by deed from William Read and ANN READ his wife, and Matthew Pearce and MARY PEARCE his wife, dated 15 Aug 1802, recorded Philadelphia, Deed book E.F. #9, page 532, shall be deemed to have been as firm and valid and the title conveyed by Alexander Boaticar and LUCY BOATICAR his wife, to Lewis Bollman by deed dated 12 Aug 1803, deed book E.F. #15, pg. 178 shall remain as firm and valid as if Alexander Boaticar had previous subscribed a declaration of his intention to become a citizen of the United States. 30 Jan 1804. 17. An act dissolving a marriage. Whereas ELIZABETH BURK, of Washington county, stated that her husband CORNELIUS BURK, after wasting and spending her property, hath deserted and left her, and hath now been absent more then 5 years and 6 months, and it is believed that Cornelius was married to another woman, who is yet living, previous to his marriage with Elizabeth, and though Elizabeth might possibly obtain a divorce by application to, and attendance on the Supreme Court, she is unable to by reason of poverty to travel to Philadelphia, and attend the proceedings of the court, and pay the expences, therefore, the marriage of Cornelius Burk and Elizabeth Burk, is hereby annulled and they are hereby set free, and totally discharged from all duties as fully as if they had never been joined in matrimony. 30 Jan 1804. 20. An act to incorporate the Phoenix Insurance Company of Philadelphia. Whereas the company has been formed for the purpose of making insurances upon maritime risques, to alleviate the misfortunes and losses of commerce and navigation, it is therefore incorporated, and ISAAC WHARTON, DAVID LEWIS, RUMFORD DAWES, ROBERT E. GRIFFITH, JOSHUA GILPIN, JOSEPH SNOWDEN, PAUL BECK JR., PASCHAL HOLLIGSWORTH and JOSEPH CURVEN, shall be the present directors. 6 Feb 1804. 22. An act to raise by lottery, a sum not exceeding $8000.00 for the use of the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas, in the city of Philadelphia. That JOHN INSKEEP, WILLIAM POYNTELL, SAMUEL WHEELER, JOHN C. STOCKER, THOMAS CUMPSTON, ROBERT M'MULLEN and WILLIAM RICHARDS, are hereby appointed commissioners, to raise the money for the purpose of discharging the debts of the congregation, and to complete the building of their house of worship. 6 Feb 1804. 23. An act appointed a trustee in the county of Centre. Whereas by an act passed 13 Feb 1800, ANDREW GREGG was appointed a trustee for the county of Centre, and has since resigned, therefore, JAMES POTTER, is hereby appointed a trustee for the county of Centre. 6 Feb 1804. 24. An act declaring a creek a public highway. That Wyosox creek, in the town of Claverack, Luzerne county, from the mouth to JACOB MYER's mill dam, is hereby declared a public highway. 6 Feb 1804. 25. An act to provide for the erection of a house for the employment and support of the poor in the county of York. That MARTIN GARTNER, SAMUEL COLLINS, ABRAHAM GRAFFIUS, CHRISTIAN HETRICK, PETER SMALL, PETER STORM, JOHN HENEISEN, HENRY GRIGER and DANIEL SPANGLER, of the county of York, are hereby appointed directors to erect the buildings. 6 Feb 1804 28. An act for the relief of ALEXANDER PATTERSON. Whereas Alexander Patterson of Easton, Northhampton county, in the revolutionary war, performed as a captain, very effectial services to this commonwealth, therefore, $400.00 is hereby granted to Alexander Patterson, and also an annuity of $100.00 to be paid half yearly, during his life. 10 Feb 1804. 29. An act to incorporate a company for making a road for Erie to Waterford. That GEORGE BUHLER, CALLENDER IRVINE, JUDAH COLT, THOMAS FORSTER, ABRAHAM SMITH, MARTIN STRONG, JAMES NAYLOR, WILSON SMITH, CHARLES MARTEN, JOHN COUCHRIN, ROGER ALDEN, DAVID MEAD, THOMAS R. KENNEDY, JOSEPH HACKNEY, JABEZ COLT, JOHN WILKINS JR., HENRY BAULDIN, JOHN M'MASTERS, SAMUEL EWALT, WILLIAM GAZZAM, JAMES GIBSON, PAUL BUSTIE, WILLIAM CRAMMOND, ANDREW PETIT and MICHAEL KEPPELE, are hereby appointed commissioners. 13 Feb 1804. 32. An act for the relief of GEORGE STEVENSON. Whereas George Stevenson, now an inhabitant of Washington county, entered into the service of the United States early in our revolutionary war with Great Britain, that he was appointed to a lieutenancy in the army, and after several years service he was in the year 1779, made a prisoner at the town of West Liberty by the Indians, and severly wounded in the head with a tomahawk, taken to Detriot and delivered up to the British, and by them carried to Quebec, where he suffered a long and harsh imprisonment until Oct 1782, when he was discharged on parole, and made his way through wilderness to the United States, and thence to Philadelphia, after an absence of three years and four months, having experienced many severe trials and hardships, and sustained very considerable losses, that he never received any redress or compensation from the state, and that he has grown old, with a large family of children to support, therefore, the land officers shall place George Stevenson on the list of soldiers entitled to donation lands, and shall draw for and patent to him such donation lands as he would have been entitled to if he had served until the conclusion of the war. 13 Feb 1804. 35. An act altering the place of holding elections. That the electors of Southampton twp., Somerset county, shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by MICHAEL KORN. 20 Feb 1804. 36. An act for the relief of JOHN GILCHRIST. Whereas John Gilchrist, of the borough of Harrisburgh, while in the service of this state in the late revolutionary war, received a wound, by reason whereof he is rendered unable to procure a maintenace by manual labour, therefore, John Gilchrist is hereby allowed an annuity of sixty-four dollars, from the 1 Jan 1803, and to continue during life, to be paid immediately, and in future half yearly. 20 Feb 1804. 37. An act to empower heirs and executors to sell and convey a lot. Whereas the heirs of JOHN HIRST JR., dec., on the 14 Dec 1802, stated their title to a lot in the city of Philadelphia, is rendered defective by the loss of deed of conveyance for the same, dated 1 Jan 1762, from WILLIAM ALLEN ESQ., late chief justice of the providence of Philadelphia, unto WILLIAM FOX, joiner, rendering an annual rent, bounded by a lot of EDWARD EVANS, by PHILIP FAIL's lot, and partly by JACOB PAINTER's lot, and PETER MILLER's lot, and was thence purchased by JOHN HIRST SEN., on 16 Aug 1778, for 1000 pounds, for which he obtained a deed from REGINA FOX, relict and HENRY JUSTUS FOX., executors of the last will and testament of William Fox, dec., therefore, the lot recorded in Philadelphia county, in deed book E.F. #11, pg. 36, is hereby vested in the heirs of John Hirst Sen., as effectually as if the deed from William Allen Esq., to William Fox, had not been lost, and the title from Regina Fox and Henry Justus Fox, shall not be prejudiced in any court for want of producing the same. 20 Feb 1804. 38. An act authorizing the comptroller to adjust and settle a certificate. Whereas JOHN EVANS lost a certificate #162, for the sum of 70 pounds, 13 shillings and 10 pence, three farthings, issued to THOMAS M'FARLANE for the depreciation of his pay as a matross in the 4th regiment of artillery, and whereas it appears a certificate has not been redeemed, and John Evans is the lawful administrator of Thomas M'Farlane dec., therefore, the comptroller is hereby authorized to settle the principal and interest due on the certificate. 27 Feb 1804. 40. An act to incorporate a company for making a road from Lancaster through Elizabethtown, to Middletown. That GEORGE FRY, WILLIAM CRABB, JAMES HAMILTON, ELIJAH GREEN, DANIEL MONTGOMERY JR., GEORGE REDSEKER, JOHN CAROLUS, JOHN PEDEN, ADAM REIGART JR., SAMUEL HUMES, WILLIAM KIRKPATRICK, CHRISTOPHER MYER, JOHN SWAR, PETER GONTER, ADAM WEBER, JACOB DICKERT, ABRAHAM WITMER, WILLIAM MONTGOMERY, JOHN GUNDAKER, and WILLIAM G. LATIMER, are hereby appointed commissioners. 5 Mar 1804. 41. An act for the relief of GEORGE EICHHOLTZ. Whereas George Eichholtz of the borough of Lancaster, in the revolutionary war served as a private soldier in the PA line, in CAPTAIN DEHUFF's company, and COLONEL ATLEE's regiment, and in the battle of Flatbush, on Long Island, he received a severe wound in his groin with a musket ball, by reason whereof he is rendered wholly unable to procure a maintance either for his family or hereself, therefore, George Eichholtz, is hereby allowed an annuity of sixty dollars frm the 1 Jan 1803, during his natural life, to be paid as follows: sixty dollars for the first year, ending 1 Jan 1804, immediately, and afterwards in half yearly from 1 Jan 1804. 5 Mar 1804. 42. An act to incorporate a company for making a turnpike road from the intersection of Bristol and Newtown roads, at the rock in Oxford, through Bustletown and Smithfield, in Philadelphia county, to the Buck tavern, in Southampton, Bucks county. That HENRY WYNKOOP, RICHARD LEEDOM and AUGUSTINE WILLOT, of Bucks county, JACOB SOMMERS of Moreland, THOMAS PAUL, WILLIAM DUNCAN, ISAAC WORRELL, JOSHUA COMLY and FREDERICK WOLBERT of Philadelphia county, CLEMENT BIDDLE, JOHN BAKET, north Second street, and STEPHEN GIRARD, of the city of Philadelphia, are hereby appointed commissioners. 5 Mar 1804. 44. An act to alter the place of election. That the electors of the 7th election district, in the county of Huntingdon, shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by SAMUEL HENRY, in Barree twp. 5 Mar 1804. 45. An act to incorporate a company for making a road from the western side of Laurel hill near Union town, to the state line towards Cumberland in the state of MD. That EPHRAIM DOUGLASS, ALEXANDER M'CLEAN, NATHANIEL BREADING, ISAAC MEASON, JACOB BEESON, JACOB BOWMAN, SAMUEL JACKSON, JAMES W. NICHOLSON, JOSEPH TORRENCE, CHARLES PORTER, JOHN CUNNINGHAM, SAMUEL TREVOR, and JOHN GIBSON of Fayette county, JOHN HEATON, JOHN MINOR, HUGH BARCLAY, and JOHN BADOLET of Greene county, NEAL GILLESPIE, ZEPHANIA BELL, THOMAS ACHESON, JAMES KERR, and JOSEPH PENTICOST of Washington county, and THOMAS SPENCER, ABRAHAM MORRISON, JAMES MITCHELL, and JOHN M'CLEAN of Somerset county, are hereby appointed commissioners. 5 Mar 1804. 48. An act to enable administrators to sell and make title. Whereas CONRAD WEISER, late of Penns twp., in Northumberland county, dec., in his lifetime laid out a piece or tract of land adjoining the town of Selinsgrove, in town and out lots, which he called Weisersburg, part of the town lots and out lots, 42 in number, of 1 acre each, he purposed to let out on ground rent, and whereas some of the purchasers of town lots never received any title, although they had paid, the out lots lay vacant and unproductive, and some of the heirs are minors, therefore, BARBARA WEISER, administratrix and BENJAMIN WEISER, administrator of Conrad Weiser, dec., are hereby authorized to convey all and every lot to the purchasers. 5 Mar 1804. 50. An act to incorporate a company to make a road from the top of Chestnut hill through Flourtown, to the Spring house tavern, in Montgomery county. That JOHN HUSTON, CADWALLADER EVANS, GEORGE WEAVER, JOHN BURK, JOHN ROBERTS, NICHOLAS KLINE, CHRISTIAN DULL, JACOB DAGER, and JOHN STEELE, are hereby appointed commissioners. 5 Mar 1804. 51. An act to incorporate the Philadelphia Bank. An association of of citizens have formed for the purpose of making loans to the merchants, traders, and other citizens, and the directors are, GEORGE CLYMER, JOHN WELSH, JOHN GARDINER JR., SAMUEL MEEKER, ELISHA KANE, JACOB SPERRY, MATTHEW LAWLER, LOUIS D. CARPENTIER, WILLIAM GUIER, JOSEPH D. DRINKER, JOHN BOHLEN, WILLIAM HASLET, JACOB SHOEMAKER, ABRAHAM M. GARRIGUES, ISRAEL ISRAEL, and JOSEPH CLARK. 5 Mar 1804. 52. An act for the relief of ROBERT HARRIS. Whereas Robert Harris, a native of Great Britain, having arrived in this state, with an intention of residing therein, in Jun 1802, that in Aug following, he purchased of JAMES M'CAHRIN a plantation of 217 acres, situated in Westnantmill twp., Chester county, bounded by lands of CHARLES REED, DAVID DENNY, SAMUEL BYERS, and others, for the sum of 1200 pounds, of which 570 pounds was paid at the time he received his deed, and secured the payment of the residue, and has been in possession of the premises since Apr last, therefore, the title to all the above real estate, acquired by Robert Harris, shall remain as firm and valid s if Robert Harris had previously taken and subscribed a declaration of his intention to become a citizen of the United States. 12 Mar 1804. 53. An act authorizing administrators to sell and convey land. Whereas ZEBULON POTTS, late of Montgomery county, dec., was seized of real estate in Plymouth twp., and by his last will and testament bequeath unto his wife MARTHA POTTS, all his real estate during his natural life, with full power to sell and convey any or all of it, that after her decease the residue was to be equally divided among his children, and as Martha has since deceased intestate, leaving a portion of the real estate unsold, therefore, JOSEPH POTTS and JOSEPH THOMAS, administrators to the estate of Martha Potts, dec., are hereby authorized to sell and convey a messuage and tract containing 17 acres, adjoining lands of DAVID LUKINS, WILLIAM SHEPHERD and others. 12 Mar 1804. 54. An act to incorporate a company for erecting a bridge over the river Delaware, near the town of Milford, Wayne county. That SAMUEL JOHNSTON, JOHN BIDDIS, JOHN BRODHEAD, JOHN BRINK and HUGH ROSS, of Wayne county, and THOMAS ANDERSON, DANIEL STEWARD, JOHN GUSTON and JEDEDIAH SAYR, of Suffix county, state of New Jersey, are hereby appointed commissioners. 12 Mar 1804. 55. An act erecting a new election district, and changing places of elections in Northumberland county. That Chillisquaque twp., Northumberland county, is hereby erected into a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by WILLIAM DALE. That the place of holding the 7th election district elections, is hereby changed from the house of DAVID FOWLER, to the house of ABRAHAM MILLER, in Bloom twp., and the place of holding elections in the 14th election district is hereby changed from the house of HENRY GROSS, to the house now occupied by PETER APPLE, in Beaver twp. 12 Mar 1804. 56. An act to make a separate election district. That Weisenberg and Lynn twps., Northampton county, are hereby erected into a separate election district, the 12th district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by GEORGE GRIM, in Weisenberg twp. 12 Mar 1804. 57. An act to obtain a title a lot of land. Whereas ALEXANDER M'PHERSON did purchase of his brother in law DAVID COWAN, and CATHARINE COWAN his wife, a lot of land containing 26.5 acres, situate in Sadsbury twp., Chester county, and hath paid the full consideration, according to the terms of an agreement made in the lifetime of Catharine, who is since dec., by reason of he deprived of obtaining a title thereto, therefore, David Cowan is hereby authorized to convey to Alexander M'Pherson, the lot of land. 12 Mar 1804. 59. An act to incorporate the Delaware Insurance company of Philadelphia. That THOMAS FITZSIMMONS, JOHN CRAIG, GRIFFITH EVANS, TOURNIER ROSTAIN, JACOB SHOEMAKER, RICHARD GERNON, JAMES LATTIMER, JOSEPH D. DRINKER, AUGUSTINE BOUSQUET, SAMUEL MEEKER, BOHL BOHLEM, WILLIAM BUCKLEY, JACOB SPERRY, WILLIAM M'FADEN, JOHN WELSH, GEORGE CUREVEN, and STEVEN DUTILH, shall be the present directors. 12 Mar 1804. 60. An act to enable and enforce the owners of a tract of marsh meadow, to keep the banks, dams, slices and floodgates in repair. Whereas a tract of marsh and meadow land, situate partly in Lower Chichester twp., and Chester twp., Delaware county, known by the name of Lower Chischester marsh meadow, and bounded beginning at the land of MARTHA SMITH, in Lower Chichester twp., the river Delaware, by the fast land of JOHN PRICE, in Chester twp., which is now embanked, but as the banks, dams, slices and flood gates made for stopping out the tide waters, and preventing the overflowing are not in good repair, therefore, the owners of the tract of meadow, shall meet together at the house occupied by JACOB DEREBACHER, in Lower Chichester twp., and shall choose owners to be managers. That the bank, dams, slices and flood gates have been maintained at the individual expense of Martha Smith, DAVID TRAINER and SARAH TRAINER his wife, the heirs of SAMUEL PRICE, BENJAMIN JOHNSTON, and the heirs of DAVID JOHNSTON, JONATHAN DUTTON, JACOB RICHARDS, ERASMUS MORTON, John Price, and THOMAS COBOURN, and shall continue to be maintained by them. 19 Mar 1804. 61. An act to raise by lottery a sum not exceeding $10000.00 for the use and benefit of the trustees and members of the Fourth Presbyterian church in the city of Philadelphia. That ALEXANDER MOORE, ROBERT GORDON, DAVID MILLER, EDWARD HANNA, ARCHIBALD LITTLE, ROBERT ERWIN and ROBERT M'CULLOUGH are hereby appointed commissioners. 19 Mar 1804. 62. An act to erect a new election district. That Fannet twp., Franklin county, shall be an election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the school house on the land of JOHN HOLLIDAY and JAMES WALLACE. 19 Mar 1804. 64. An act for the relief of ALEXANDER SIMONTON. Whereas Alexander Simonton, now an inhabitant of Mercer county, a sergeant in the late PA line, in COLONEL CHAMBERS' regiment, was wounded at the battle of Brandywine, and discharged previous to the conclusion of the war, which said wound has since become so troublesome as to render him incapable of earning his subsistence by labor, therefore, the land officers shall place Alexander Simonton on the list of soldiers entitled to donation lands and shall draw and patent to him such donation lands as he would have been entitled to if he had served to the conclusion of the war. 19 Mar 1804. 66. An act to raise by lottery, a sum not exceeding $2060.00 to finish and complete two churches in the county of Franklin. That PETER KOON, PHILIP REEMER, MICHAEL TICE, JOHN FINDLEY, JOHN M'MURDIE and JOHN SCOTT, are hereby appointed commissioners, to raise money for the German Presbyterian Church in Greencastle, and the Presbyterian church in Mercerburg. 19 Mar 1804. 67. An act for the relief of JACOB WALTER, the legal representative of MICHAEL WALTER, dec. Whereas Jacob Walter, administrator for his late brother Michael Walter, dec., who had been a soldier in the revolutionary war, in the 3rd PA regiment, and served faithfully for the term of his enlistment, and who never received the depreciation due on his pay, on account of his ill state of health, want of information, and ignorance of the laws, and that Jacob Walter incurred considerable expence in supporting his brother, previous to his decease, and the certificate has not been redeemed, therefore, the accounting officers are hereby directed to settle the accounts of Michael Walter, for the depreciation due on his pay, to Jacob Walter. 19 Mar 1804. 69. An act for the relief of the heirs of CAPTAIN JOHN BRADY, late of Northumberland county, dec. Whereas John Brady, late of Northumberland county, dec., was appointed captain in the 12th PA regiment, commanded by COLONEL WILLIAM COOKE, in which he served until 1778, when he obtained a leave of absence, for the purpose of assisting and defending his family against the incursions of the Indians, then committing depredations in the settlement, where they resided, and as Captain Brady, in returning from a scout to a small fort, in which he had placed his family for safety, fell victim to savage cruelty, therefore, the land office is required to grant to the heirs of Captain John Brady, dec., a patent for such quantity of donation land as an officer of his rank is entitled to. 19 Mar 1804. 70. An act to incorporate a company to make a road from the Susquehanna river, near Wright's Ferry, to the borough of York. That JOHN STEWART, GEORGE HAY, GEORGE SPANGLER, JONATHAN MIFFLIN, GEORGE BARD, CONRAD LAUB, JOHN STROMAN, SAMUEL SPANGLER, CHRISTIAN STONER, JOHN GRIER and JACOB UPP, are hereby appointed commissioners. 19 Mar 1804. 71. An act to enable MARGARET KEITH to sell and convey a tract of land in Middletown twp., Cumberland county. Whereas CHARLES M'HAFFEY was possessed of a tract of land in Cumberland county, containing 190.5 acres, warranted 29 Jan 1753, for 100 acres, surveyed by WILLIAM LYON ESQ., the 18 Aug 1761, and Charles M'Haffey died intestate in Middletown twp., and that Margaret Keith, alias MARGARET M'HAFFEY is the only daughter and heir to the estate of Charles M'haffey, and about 30 years since Margaret intermarried with TIMOTHY KEITH, a foreigner, from the kingdom of Ireland, and Keith absconded from Cumberland county, about 20 years since, and has never yet returned, which renders her unable to support herself, without making sale of the land and Margaret cannot make title to any purchaser, on account of the desertion of her husband, and being considered in law as in a state of coverture, nor can she obtain the land in her own name, therefore, Margaret Keith, is hereby empowered to take out a patent and shall have power to sell the land, and to make and execute a deed. 19 Mar 1804. 73. An act for the relief of PETER KEPLINGER. The sum of $150.00 is hereby granted to Peter Keplinger, immediately, and an annunity of fifty dollars during his natural life, to be paid from 1 Jan 1804, half yearly. 19 Mar 1804. 75. An act to incorporate a company for making a road from the northeastern branch of the Susquehanna river, between the Lower Whopehawly and Nescopeck creeks, in Luzerne creek, to the north side of Nesquehoning creek, near its entrance into the river Lehigh. That WILLIAM TILGHMAN, BENJAMIN SAY, WILLIAM TURNBULL, SAMUEL HODGDON, THOMAS G. JAMES, and LEVI HOLLINGSWORTH, of the city of Philadelphia, GENERAL THOMAS GRAIG, GEORGE SEVITZ and PETER RHODES JR., of Northampton county, NATHAN BEECH of Luzerne county, JACOB BITTENBENDER and JOHN BROWN, of Berwick, Northumberland county, are hereby appointed commissioners. 19 Mar 1804. 79. An act confirming a partition made of lands in Lycoming county. Whereas JOHN MURRAY JR., JACOB SHIEFFELIN, THOMAS BUCKLEY, EFFINGHAM EMBREE, the minor children of EFFINGHAM LAWRENCE, dec., the minor children of SAMUEL BROWNE, dec., all of the city or state of New York, SAMUEL W. FISHER, in his own right, and in trust for ISAAC WHARTON, JESSE ain WALN, ROBERT WALN, and JAMES C. FISHER, citizens of Philadelphia, and SAMUEL PARKER, of London, are seized as tenents in common in a large tract of land containing 112300 acres and 115 perches, situate in the last purchase made of the Indians, on the water of Pine Creek, the fourth branch of Tioga, formerly in the county of Northumberland, now in the county of Lycoming, of which they are desirous to make partition, to make sales to actual settlers and safely go on with improvements already begun, but the minority and distant residence of many of them render it difficult to effect a partition, and whereas WILLIAM ELLIS, of Muncy twp., Lycoming county, surveyor, hath at the request of the heirs made division of the land and the parties are satisfied and was recorded in Commission Book #2, pg 211, therefore, the allotment and division of the tract of land made by William Ellis, and recorded is hereby confirmed and all parties has have and hold their partitions. 26 Mar 1804. 81. An act for the relief of ELIZABETH FEBIGER. Whereas an act passed 11 Apr 1793, the sum of 10000 pounds was granted to the PA hospital out of a fund arising from load office of 26 Feb 1772, who employed PHILIP REILEY to collect the monies, and CHRISTIAN FEBIGER entered into a bond for the good behavior of Philip Reiley, and Philip Reiley after collecting sums of money, converted it to his own use and absconded, and the managers of the PA hospital have obtained judgement in the supreme court against Elizabeth Febiger, executrix of the last will and testement of Christian Febiger, dec., for the sum of $5331.36, and it is suggested that errors have arisen in the accounts, to the prejudice of Elizabeth Febiger, and as she had informed the managers long before Reiley absconded, that she suspected him of improper conduct, and requested he be discharged from the collection, and the estate be relieved of future responsibility of the bond, therefore, the judgement obtained against Elizabeth Febiger, as relates to the balance due, be suspended for the space of nine months, and the comptroller general is hereby authorized to adjust and settle the balance due, and upon settlement the balance shall be discharged for any balance due. 26 Mar 1804. 83. An act to incorporate a company for making a road in Wayne and Luzerne counties. That HENRY DRINKER, EDWARD TILGHMAN, THOMAS HARRISON and WILLIAM POYNTELL of the city of Philadelphia, JOHN CONKLIN, JASON TORRY and SAMUEL STANTON, of Wayne county, and ASUHEL GREGORY, JOHN TYLER, and MENNA DUBOIS, of the county of Luzerne, are hereby appointed commissioners. 29 Mar 1804. 84. An act granting relief to the heirs of MICHAEL IRICK, dec. Whereas Michael Irick, late of York county, dec., was enlisted as a soldier in 1777, in COLONEL HARTLEY's regiment, for the term of three years, or until the end of the revolutionary war, and whereas that being on command at Wyoming, in the winter of 1780 he through the inclemency of the weather had his feet nearly frozen off in consequence of which he was disabled from continuing in the service of his country or of providing for himself and family, and it appears Michael Irick dec., never received any donation land, therefore, the board of property are hereby required to grant to the heirs of Michael Irick, late of York county, the share of donation land to which he would have deem entitled had he served to the end of the war. 29 Mar 1804. 85. An act to incorporate an Academy in the town of Norris, Montgomery county. That the first trustees shall be WILLIAM TENNENT, SLATOR CLAY, and JOHN GEMMIL, ministers of the gospel, ANDREW PORTER, FRANCIS SWAINE, CADWALLADER EVANS, JOHN JONES, SETH CHAPMAN, LEVI lain PAWLING, ISAAC HUDDLESON, JOHN MARKLEY, ALEXANDER CRAWFORD and ROBERT HAMILL. 29 Mar 1804. 87. An act to erect the town of Morrisville into a borough. That the town of Morrisville, Bucks county, is hereby erected into a borough, bounded from the Newtown road, cutting off a corner of WILLIAM JENK's land, so as to take the back line of LEWIS LE GUEN's and HENRY CLYMER's lands, thence to MAHLON MILNOR's land, cutting off a corner of MAHLON LONGSTRETH's land, to a corner of JOHN CARLILE's land, to the beginning. 29 Mar 1804. 89. An act for the relief of MARCUS HULINGS JR. Whereas by a certified copy of the noncupative will of RICHARD KENEHAN, given under the hand of WILLIAM LYON ESQ., register of probates and wills, Cumberland county, Richard Kenehan devised, unto SARAH WILSON, a tract of donation land situate in the sixth district, #1292, who afterwards became the wife of SAMUEL HOGGE, who together with his wife Sarah, conveyed the devised tract of land to ALEXANDER POWER, who conveyed the tract to Marcus Hulings Jr., as appears by the original patent and deeds of conveyance, and as it was the desire of Richard Kenehan that Sarah Wilson Hogge should possess the tract, therefore, all the real estate of Richard Kenehan shall remain vested in Marcus Hulings Jr., and is forever discharged from all right and title of the commonwealth, by reason of supposed escheat, for want of heirs or kindred due to the noncupative will of Richard Kenehan. 29 Mar 1804. 92. An act authorizing the sale of a lot in Heidleburg twp., York county, belonging to the German Lutheran Congregation, in Hanover. That JACOB EICHELBERGER, and FREDERICK SHULTZ, are authorized to sell and convey all right and title which the congregation hath in a lot containing 16.25 acres which was conveyed by JOHN CREAT and ELIZABETH CREAT his wife, the 5 Oct 1779 to FREDERICK GILVEX, HENRY SLAGLE and others, in trust for the use of the congregation. 2 Apr 1804. 94. An act to sell and convey real estate. Whereas CHAMBERS GAW, hath presented that his infant daughter, MARY GAW, in right of her mother and uncle, JOHN GALLOWAY, dec., is intitled to a small undivided interest in two tracts of land, in Buffaloe twp., Cumberland county, and that the lands are unimproved, and are liable to injury from the destruction of timber and that it would be for the interest of all that the tracts of land be sold, but the sale cannot be made, on account of the infancy of Mary Gaw, the only child of Chambers Gaw, and his late wife CATHARINE GAW, therefore, Chambers Gaw is hereby authorized to sell and convey all that undivided share in tracts of land, to which his late wife was entitled, and whereas Chambers Gaw is now seized of an estate for term of his life, as tenant by the courtesy, with remainder to his child, and also all the estate in the tracts of land which descended to Mary Gaw, from her uncle John Galloway, dec., and the contracts, sales, conveyances to be made and given shall be as valid as if his child was of full age, bond being given to the Philadelphia court. 2 Apr 1804. 96. An act to provide for improving a road through Igoe's Narrows, Huntingdon county. That the commissioners of Huntingdon county, shall improve the road through Igoe's Narrows, which lies below the house of PETER VANDIVENDER. 2 Apr 1804. 100. An act for the relief of DAVID JACKSON. Whereas David Jackson, during the revolutionary war, was called out on a tour of duty, in the Chester county militia, in CAPTAIN DAVID HAY's company, in a regiment commanded by COLONEL EVAN EVANS, and that in the cannonade at Trenton, on the second day of Jan 1777, he had his left hand shot off by a cannon ball, that by an order of the orphans court in Chester county, he was allowed a pension of four dollars a month, and afterwards, on 1 Nov 1787 he was allowed an additional dollar per month, that since 1 May 1789 his pension has been paid by the United States, and has for nine years past been reduced to four dollars per month, and whereas David Jackson is now aged and infirm, and unable to support himself by labor, therefore, David Jackson of Lancaster county, is hereby allowed twelve dollars a year, in addition to his pension of forty eight dollars per annum, which he now receives from the United States, for the 1 Jan 1795, during his natural life, to be paid $108.00 immediately, and in half yearly payments form 1 Jan 1804. 2 Apr 1804. 101. An act for the relief of NICHOLAS REEM. Whereas Nicholas Reem (alias NICHOLAS RHEAM) of Northumberland county, early 1776, did enlist in the late revolutionary army for three years, during the war, and continued as sergeant until some time in the year 1781, when he was discharged by reason of wounds received in the service, which disabled him from longer service in a military capacity, and has petitioned to grant him a share of donation land, therefore, the land office is hereby directed to grant a patent to Nicholas Reem for such share of donation land to which a sergeant is entitled who served in the line of this state in the armies of the United States, to the end of the late revolutionary war. 2 Apr 1804. 107. An act declaring part of Big Fishing Creek and Cattewissi Creek, in the county of Northumberland, public highways. That Big Fishing creek, from the mouth of Little Fishing creek up to JONATHAN COLLY's mill, and Cattewissi creek are declared public highways. 3 Apr 1804. 111. An act authorizing the state treasurer to transfer stock. Whereas the state treasurer subscribed in the name of the commonwealth certain continental certificates from the United States in exchange for new loan certificates, stated to have been lost by SARAH CALDWELL, JOHN THOMPSON, MARY BEERE, JAMES STEENE, CHARLES WEST, THOMAS BUTLER, and HENRY BROWN, to a loan opened by congress 1790, for the benefit of domestic creditors, in trust for the use of said persons, and whereas a large part of the stock held in trust was transferred and paid over to THOMAS lain LEIPER, as executor the the estate of Sarah Caldwell, dec., therefore, the state treasurer shall transfer the original amount of the stock held in trust, and also the dividend of two per cent, to John Thompson, Mary Beere, James Steene, Charles West, Thomas Butler, and Henry Brown. 3 Apr 1804. 112. An act to obtain title to a lot of land. Whereas JAMES WALLIS did purchase of LLEWELLIN DAVIS a lot of land, containing 1 acre and 65 perches, situtate in Charlestown twp., Chester county, and hath paid the full consideration, according to an agreement made with Llewellin Davis, who is since dead, but is unable to obtain a title without a written contract, therefore, the administrator and administratix of Llewellin Davis dec., are hereby authorized to convey a title to James Wallis. 3 Apr 1804. 116. An act to dissolve a marriage contract. Whereas MARY DEWEES, late MARY KID, of Montgomery county, hath represented she was lawfully married to THOMAS DEWEES, Jun 1801, that within a few months of marriage he was convicted of forgery, in Berk's county, and was sentenced to hard labour and imprisonment for a term of years, that after 18 months imprisonment he was, at the solicitation of her friends pardoned by the governor, that after remaining with her about two weeks after his liberation he abandoned and left her in a destitute situation, and it appears by a copy of a record of the court of quarter sessions and general jail delivery for the county of Allegheny, that at the court held 28 Dec 1803, Thomas Dewees was legally convicted of aiding and abetting the passing of counterfeit money, and sentenced to 5 years imprisonment at hard labor, and under such circumstances the unfortunate woman ought to be released from any connection with a character apparently so irreclaimable, therefore, the marriage contract between Thomas Dewees and Mary his wife, late Mary Kid, is hereby declared null and void and the parties discharged from all duties as fully as if they had never been joined in matrimony. 3 Apr 1804. 117. An act to authorize the erection of a toll bridge. That it shall be lawful for ALEXANDER M'INTIRE, to erect, build, and maintain a good and substantial bridge over French creek, on the line of a road laid out from Block house, in the town of Meadville, to the outlet of the Conncaut lake crosses the same, in Crawford county. 3 Apr 1804. 119. An act erecting and altering election districts. That until another public school house shall be erected in Mifflintown, the electors of Fermanagh and Milford twps., Mifflin county, shall hold their elections in the school house now occupied by DAVID STEELE, in Mifflintown. That the electors of Cumberland Valley twp., Bedford county, shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by JOHN M'COY. That part of Armstrong twp., Indiana county, beginning at boundry line of township near JAMES M'CLANAHAN's farm, on Crooked Creek, including the dwelling house of ADAM PISON, shall be a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by JACOB HAAS. That part of Venango county, shall be a separate election district, Oil creek to the west end of a tract of land, surveyed in the name of ANDREW CRESS or ANDREW CARSON, etc., and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by THOMAS GOTT. That Londonderry twp., Dauphin county, shall be a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by ROBERT DAVIDSON, in Palmstown. That Toby twp., Armstrong county, shall be a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by ABRAHAM STANDFORD. That Tioga twp., Lycoming county, shall be a separate election district and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by THOMAS BERRY. That the electors of Moon twp., in Allegheny county, shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by JOHN BRYAN SEN. That Robinson twp., in Allegheny county, shall be erected into a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by WILLIAM MARKS. That the 5th district, in Butler county, shall be erected into a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by ALEXANDER RAMSAY. That Middlesex twp., and part of Buffaloe twp. annexed to Middlesex twp., Butler county, shall be erected into a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by JOHN NEIGHLEY, in the town of Butler. That the 2nd district, in Butler county, shall be erected into a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by ALEXANDER RAMSEY. That the 6th district, in Butler county, shall be erected into a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by WASHINGTON PORTER. 3 Apr 1804. RESOLUTIONS 3. Resolved, that the comptroller general, is hereby authorized to employ one able counsel, learned in the law, to prosecute the suit brought by the commonwealth against the heirs and devisees of DAVID RITTENHOUSE, late state treasurer, dec.,in the high court of errors and appeals, which has been determined by the supreme court unfavorably to the state. 19 Mar 1804. T.M. THOMPSON, Secretary of the Commonwealth of PA. _____________ Source: The Statues at Large of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg PA, 1911 LAWS PASSED SESSION 1804/05 HARRISBURG, PA. THOMAS M'KEAN, Governor SIMON SNYDER, Speaker of the House of Representatives ROBERT WHITEHILL, Speaker of the Senate. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In General Assembly met and is hereby enacted by the Authority of the Same. 3. An act enlarging the bounds of the 9th election district, in the county of Washington. Boundaries, beginning between Washington and Green counties, near JACOB BOBETT's to the head waters of Hunter's Ford of Wheelen creek, etc. 8 Jan 1805. 5. A supplement to an act to raise by lottery, a sum not exceeding $8000.00 for the use and benefit of the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas in the city of Philadelphia. Whereas, JOHN INSKEEP, WILLIAM POYNTELL, JOHN C. STOCKER, ROBERT M'MULLEN and WILLIAM RICHARDS, have declined the duty enjoined on them, therefore, WILLIAM MURDOCK, JOSEPH BENET EVES, EPHRAIM CLARK, PETER s24 BROWN and DANIEL SMITH, are hereby appointed commissioners in their room, with SAMUEL WHEELER and THOMAS CUMPSTON named in the act are hereby authorized to carry the act into execution. 8 Jan 1805. 6. An act to erect Donegal twp., Lancaster county, into a separate election district. That Donegal twp. voters shall hold their elections at the house of FREDERICK GELBAUGH, in the village of Maytown. 8 Jan 1805. 7. An act establishing an academy in the town of Bellefont, in Centre county. That the first trustees of Bellefont Academy will consist of the following persons, HENRY R. WILSON, minister of the gospel, JAMES DENLOP, ROLAND CURTIN, and WILLIAM PETRIKIN, ROBERT M'CLANAHAN and JOHN HALL, of the town of Bellefont, WILLIAM STEWARD, Minister of the gospel, ANDREW GREGG and JAMES s24 POTTER, of Pottars twp., JAMES DUNCAN, JOHN HALL, and JACOB HOSTERMAN, of Haines twp., JOHN KRIDER of Miles twp., THOMAS FERGUSON of Ferguson twp, JACOB TAYLOR of Half moon twp., DAVID WHITEHILL of Patton twp., RICHARD MILES and ROBERT BOGGS, JOSEPH MILES and JOHN DUNLOP of Spring twp., WILLIAM M'EWEN and THOMAS M'CALMON of Centre twp., JOHN FEARON and MATTHEW ALLISON and JAMES BOYD of Bald Eagle twp., are hereby declared one body politic and corporate. 8 Jan 1805. 8. An act to enable guardians to sell and convey real estate. Whereas the personal estate of ELIZABETH SPROGEL, of Philadelphia county, widow, of ELIZABETH SPROGEL JR., and ANN SPROGEL, her children, minors, is insufficient for the maintance and education of Elizabeth and Ann, unless part of the real estate is sold, and whereas a 3 acre situate on Poplar Lane, in Northern Liberities twp., (devised to Elizabeth Sprogel the elder, for life, remainder to JOHN SPROGEL, LUDWICK SPROGEL, and Elizabeth and Ann Sprogel), is at present unproductive, and subject to a yearly rent charge, and as John and Ludwick Sprogel, of full age desire to sell, therefore, it shall be lawful for ISAAC JOHNSON and Elizabeth Sprogel the elder, guardians of Elizabeth and Ann Sprogel, to sell and convey all the estate and title of John, Ludwick, Elizabeth the younger, and Ann Sprogel, in the 3 acre lot. 1 Feb 1805. 11. An act to raise by lottery, a sum of money not exceeding $1500.00 to assist in defraying the expenses of erecting Zion Church and two school houses, in the town of Womelsdorf, Berks county. That NICHOLAS ECKART, HENRY HIRSH, GEORGE EGE JR., CONRAD STOUCH, JOHN KAISS, JOHN WEISSER, and DANIEL GREASS, are hereby appointed commissioners. 1 Feb 1805. 13. An act to raise by lottery, a sum not exceeding $3000.00, for the use and benefit of the Union Academy at Doyltown, in Bucks county. That ANDREW DUNLAP, CHRISTIAN CLAMENS, JOHN HOUGH, THOMAS STEWART, HUGH MEREDITH, NATHANIEL SHEWELL and JOSIAH Y. SHAW, are hereby appointed commissioners. 11 Feb 1085. 15. An act to raise by lottery, a sum not exceeding $3000.00 to defray the expenses of building a church in the town of Somerset. That PETER KIMMEL, JAMES CLARK, JOHN TANTLINGER, OTTHO SHRADER, ABRAHAM MORRISON, GEORGE TUTROW, ABRAHAM MILLER and JACOB SCHNIDER, are hereby appointed commissioners to build a church of the Lutheran and Calvinist societies to preach the gospel. 11 Feb 1805. 18. An act investing in the devisees of JOHN MEREDITH, dec. such parts of the forfeited estate of the said John Meredith as have not been sold by this commonwealth. Whereas a small portion of the estate late of John Meredith, dec., that hath not been sold, CHARLES MEREDITH and other heirs pray the same be vested in them, therefore, the right and title of the part of the estate not sold shall be granted and set over unto Charles Meredith and others, devisees of John Meredith. 18 Feb 1805. 20. An act for the relief of FREDERICK STOEVER. Whereas HENRY SPIKER, late paymaster of the militia of Berks county, made out a certificate, purporting that a sum of 20 pounds was due to MARTIN KERCHER, for services rendered by him in the time of the late revolutionary war, and did direct DANIEL LEVAN, late treasurer, to pay the same, which certificate Martin Kercher transferred to Frederick Stoever, who delivered it to the late comptroller general, and it appears the money is due him, therefore, the accounting officers are authorized to settle the amount due with interest to Frederick Stoever. 18 Feb 1805. 22. An act for the relief of the children of JOHN MAXWELL, dec. Whereas John Maxwell, late of Caernarvon twp., Lancaster county, yeoman, died intestate, 1786, seized in a messuage, tenement and tract of land, adjoining lands of EDWARD DAVIS, CHRISTIAN HARTZLER, and DAVID JENKINS, containing 66 acres, leaving neither widow nor lawful issue, brothers nor sisters, nor any known heirs, but leaving a woman named Isabella, with whom he intermarried when under a disability of a prior marriage, and by whom he had 6 children, JOHN MAXWELL JR., MARGARET MAXWELL, MARTHA MAXWELL, MARY MAXWELL, SARAH MAXWELL and ISABELLA MAXWELL, all of whom except Margaret, were born after the death of his first wife, and as it is presumed that the landed estate has escheated to the commonwealth, and also the children, although not the lawful were the reputed heirs of John Maxwell, and living with him at the time of his death, would, in all probability, have enjoyed his estate had he died testate, therefore, all right and title which the commonwealth may have acquired for want of heirs or kindred shall be vested in all the children of John Maxwell. 18 Feb 1805. 23. An act for raising, by lottery, the sum of $20,000.00 for removing the obstructions and improving the navigation of the river Susquehanna. That THOMAS BONDE, CHRISTIAN BRENNEMAN, JOSEPH POOLE, JOHN EVANS, WILLIAM P. BEATTY, JACOB STRICKLER, SAMUEL BETHEL, ADAM REIGATT JR., WILLIAM FERREE, PHILIP DIFFENDERFER, MICHAEL GUNDAKER and LEONARD EICHHOLTZ, are hereby appointed managers. The following persons are hereby appointed commissioners, to superintend the removing of obstructions, JOHN HALDEMAN and SAMUEL MILLER, from the town of Columbia to the mouth of Swatara, THOMAS STUBBS and WILLIAM MURRAY, from Swatara to the mouth of the river Juniata, SIMON HEROLD and ABRAHAM M'KENNY from the mouth of the river Juniata to the forks of Susquehanna, at the town of Northumberland, ROBERT ERWIN, JOHN \CLARK, at the town of Catawissa, and DANIEL MONTGOMERY JR., for the northeast branch of the river, from Northumberland to the head of Luzerne, HUGH WHITE, GEORGE CRANE and BETHUEL VINCENT, for the west branch of the river, from Northmberland town to Anderson's creek in the county of Clearfield, and JOHN GILLESPIE, JOHN BRATTON, ROBERT PROVINCE and WILLIAM THOMPSON, of Thompsontown, for the river Juniata, from the mouth to Frankstown, in Huntingdon county, and HENRY SHOUB, JAMES ENTRICKEN and PETER MORGARET, for the Ray's town branch of the Juniata, from the mouth to the town of Bedford, and ROBERT BOGGS and ISAAC M'KINNEY, for the Bald Eagle creek, from the mouth to the forks at the town of Milesburgh. 18 Feb 1805. 24. An act to enable an administratrix to execute the trusts of a deed. Whereas JOHN TRAVIS, late of the city of Philadelphia, merchant, by deed dated 13 Oct 1801, recorded in Rolls office of this commonwealth, in commission book #2, pg 244, did declare, "I John Travis, one of the partners of the firm of Nathaniel and Falkner Philips and Co. of Manchester, merchants, and as agent to the house of JOHN NAYLOR and JEREMIAH NAYLOR, of Wakefield, in Great Britian, merchants, have obtained tracts of land and other estate situate in the United States, for payment of debts or sums of money owed, in case of my death prior to settlement of the transactions, I John Travis do make and execute this declaration of trust," and whereas ELIZABETH TRAVIS, widow and administratrix, stated John Travis died intestate, not having settled the transactions, which the commonwealth has vested in her infant son, who is legally incompetent to execute and discharge the trusts, therefore, Elizabeth Travis, is hereby authorized to execute the trusts. 18 Feb 1805. 27. An act vesting a tract of land. Whereas JACOB ENGLE and ENGLE BENSELL, were on 10 Jan 1793, duly empowered as devisees of the estate of PAUL ENGLE, dec., (excepting LEVI ENGLE who was absent) by letter of attorney, to grant, sell and convey the real estate they were entitled to and did sell a tract of land called Engine, situate on the south side of Crooked Creek, formerly in the county of Westmoreland, now in the county of Armstrong, bounded by THOMAS YORK, and THOMAS BURD, containing 357.75 acres, to LEONARD STONEBURNER, and the price of 50 pounds was paid by Stoneburner, who has since died intestate, leaving 4 children, SARAH PARIS STONEBURNER, HESTER WOODROW STONEBURNER, MARY RUTH STONEBURNER, and ANN STONEBURNER, and Sarah Paris has since deceased, having first by her last will and testament, devised all her real estate unto GEORGE S. BENSELL, and Jacob Engle is now deceased, and Engle Bensell in consequence of indisposition of mind, is disqualified to execute the same, therefore, all right, and title of Paul Engle in the estate called Engina, (excepting 1/13th part which is reserved for the life and benefit of Levi Engle) shall be vested in Hester Woodrow, Mary Ruth, Ann Stoneburner and George S. Bensell, as tenents in common. 2 Mar 1805. 30. An act for the relief of JOHN HUGHES. Whereas John Hughes received patents for two tracts of land, containing each 400 acres, which on running the permanent western boundry line, to have fallen within the state of VA., and because the patents were issued subsequent to the agreement between the states, but previous to the running of the boundry line, therefore, the board of property, concerning the land which lies in the state of VA., shall liquidate the amount of the payment made by him for the lands, and deliver the sum plus interest to John Hughes. 2 Mar 1805. 32. An act for the relief of ROBINA DUNLAP. Whereas Robina Dunlap, late of Dauphin county, (now of Mifflin county) widow of JOHN DUNLAP, dec., who was killed in our revolutionary war, at the battle of Chestnut Hill, in 1777, when in the service of the United States, under CAPTAIN JAMES CROUCH, and the court of Dauphin county did grant to Robina Dunlap, 25 shilling per month, as a pension, to commence 21 Sep 1785, being about the time Dauphin county was organized, for which Robina Dunlap has not received such pay by law made, which it is presumed, the court did not feel themselves authorized to allow, as their power could not be extended farther back then the organization of the county, therefore, the accounting officers are hereby directed to settle the accounts of Robina Dunlap, at the rate of $3.33 a month, from 4 Dec 1777, until 21 Sep 1785. 2 Mar 1805 33. An act directing the sale of town lots in the town of Beaver. That JOHN LAURENCE of the borough of Beaver, SAMUEL WILSON and DAVID POTTER, of the county of Beaver, are hereby authorized to sell and dispose of the town lots, the property of the commonwealth, and 1/4 of reserved tract at the mouth of Big Beaver creek, not less then 5 or more then 10 acres each. 2 Mar 1805. 34. An act dissolving a marriage. Whereas REBECCA ADKINSON, late REBECCA RITTENHOUSE, of Fayette county, states that THOMAS ADKINSON, (then of good character) and she were lawfully joined in marriage on 12 Nov 1801, and in the month of May 1803, Thomas was arrested and committed to the jail of Fayette county, and at June term, indicted of larceny, that Thomas having escaped from prison, the process that issued at the next term, Non ost inventus, that Thomas was in Mar, 1804 arraigned and convicted in the court of Allegheny county, of divers felonies, and was sentenced to imprisonment of 5 years in the penitentiary house in Philadelphia, in which he now remains, and as the conduct of Thomas from May 1803 to the present time, has been evincing a total dereliction of morality, and an entire neglect of his wife, and tender infant, that Rebecca has lost all confidence in and affection for her husband, therefore, the marriage contract between Thomas and Rebecca Adkinson, is hereby declared null and void, and the parties set free from all duties as fully as if they had never been joined in marriage, but nothing herein contained shall be construed to render illegitimate any child born of the body of Rebecca during her coverture. 2 Mar 1805. 35. An act to incorporate a company to make a road from the River Schuylkill at Reading, Berks county, to Hummelstown, Dauphin county. That JOSEPH HEISTER, PETER FRAILEY, JOHN HUY, JOHN KEIM SEN., GEORGE EGE, CONRAD STAUGH, CHRISTIAN LOWER, of Berks county, and JOHN MAYER, PHILIP GREENAWALT, PETER SHINLDE, DAVID KRAUSE, HENRY GILPIN, HENRY MEYER, ABRAM RAGUEL, HENRY BERRY, ANDREW KELLINGER, JOHN KEAN, JACOB GREENAWALT, GEORGE HOYER and ROBERT HARRIS of the county of Dauphin, are hereby appointed commissioners. 2 Mar 1805. 36. An act releasing all claims of the commonwealth to the lands contained within the borough of York. Whereas JOHN PENN and RICHARD PENN, late proprietors of PA., by their agent JOHN R. COATS ESQ., made claim to the lots and land contained within the lines of the borough of York, reserved to them by an act of assembly of this estate, and John R. Coats has agreed to release all the right and claim of John Penn and Richard Penn, etc. 7 Mar 1805. 40. An act for the relief of JOHN M'ELNAY. Whereas John M'Elnay, a soldier in CAPTAIN PHILIP ALBRIGHT's company of the first regiment of riflemen, commanded by COLONEL SAMUEL MILES, in the service of the United States, during the revolutionary war, had early in the spring of 1776, enlisted to serve until 1 Jan 1778, and continued in the service until the battle of Long Island, in Aug following, when he was taken prisoner, he was in so bad a state of health, that he lay a considerable time in the hospital in Philadelphia, and there received a furlough to go home, that he continued sick and incapable of doing duty until the term of his enlistment expired, and it appears that he hath never received any pay for his services later than for the month of Aug 1776, therefore, the accounting officers are hereby directed to settle the arrearages of pay due to John M'Elnay, from the time of his enlistment to the end thereof. 14 Mar 1805. 41. An act to raise by lottery, a sum of money for the benefit of Pennepack school in the county of Philadelphia. That THEOPHILAIS HARRIS, JOSHUA JONES, JONATHAN SCHOLFIELD, JACOB DUFFIELD, RICHARD WHITTON, JOHN NORTHROP and ENOCH WRIGHT, are hereby appointed commissioners. 14 Mar 1805. 42. An act for the relief of ANDREW BOYD, former treasurer of Chester county. Whereas Andrew Boyd appears to be indebted to the commonwealth for 2386 pounds, 14 shillings and 4 pence, arrearages of state taxes, that the deficiency was partly occasioned by the circumstance of his wife becoming deranged, and in his absence destroying not only his books and papers, but also destroying all the money on which she could lay her hands, therefore, Andrew Boyd, is hereby exonerated and discharged from the payment of the balance which is due by him. 14 Mar 1805. 43. An act to incorporate a company for the purpose of obtaining slate from quarries in the county of Northampton, suitable for roofing houses. Whereas JAMES BELL, JOHN R. GRIFFITHS and ADAM TRAQUAIR are owners of a tract of land containing a quarry of slate, and wish to incorporate, therefore, James Bell, John R. Griffiths and Adam Traquair, together with THOMAS DOBSON, JAMES TRAQUAIR, PAUL BECK, JOHN BENNET and JOHN MILLER, stone cutter, are hereby appointed commissioners. 14 Mar 1805. 45. An act for the relief of FREDERICK FULTZ. Whereas Frederick Fultz, now an inhabitant of Chester county, entered the service of his country for three years, in the revolutionary war, on 12 Feb 1777, under the command of CAPTAIN JOHN DENNIS, in COLONEL JOHN PATTON's regiment of foot, that he was taken prisoner on 25 Apr in the same year, and held in captivity in New York sugar house near three years, that he was wounded in the service and lost one of his eyes in the time of captivity, that application for his pay was made to the comptroller general on 14 Mar 1795, and being informed that he was barred by the act of limitation, that he is aged and infirm, and much reduced and unable to maintain himself and family by manual labor, and that he has not received any compensation for his services, therefore, Frederick Fultz is hereby allowed $3.33 per month for and during his natural life, payable half yearly to commence from 12 Feb last past. 25 Mar 1805. 47. An act extending the time allowed to MARCUS HULINGS, to erect a bridge over French Creek. That Marcus Hulings shall have two years to complete the bridge by the act passed 5 Apr 1802. 25 Mar 1805. 48. An act regulating and continuing th distribution of donation lands. Whereas it appears that lots of donation lands have lately been drawn and patented, which are situate in the eastermost part of the second donation district commonly called the Struck district, which was heretofore left out of the wheel on the report that the said lands were unfit for cultivation as reported by GENERAL WILLIAM IRVINE, and many large and valuable improvements have been made thereon, therefore, it shall be the duty of the land officers to take out of the wheel all tickets for donation lots, in that area, such lands shall be reserved for and granted to those who may have settled the same. 25 Mar 1805. 49. An act to establish the place for holding the courts of justice, and to provide for erecting public buildings for the use of Indiana county. Whereas in pursuance of an act passed 13 Mar 1803, the legislature appointed WILLIAM JACK, JAMES PARR and JOHN POMROY, commissioners to perform the duties enjoined, and have completed the same, therefore, CHARLES CAMPBEL, RANDEL LOUGHLIN and JOHN WILLSON, are hereby trustees for the county of Indiana county, to survey 250 acres, as boundry, agreeable to the grant and obligation of ALEXANDER CRAIG for GEORGE CLYMER, for the use of Indiana, and to lay out lots not to exceed 4 acres, whereon the public buildings will be erected. 25 Mar 1805. 50. An act to empower a guardian to sell and convey real estate. Whereas ESTHER VANSEIVER, late of the Northern Liberties of the city of Philadelphia, dec., was seized of 1/5 part, the whole into five equal parts to be divided, of a certain messuage or tenement, and lot of ground, bounded by Chestnut street, lot of WILLIAM HUDSON, Esther died intestate, leaving the following person her heirs, her sons GEORGE VANSEIVER and JACOB VANSEIVER, her daughter SUSANNA LANE and her grand daughter ESTHER THOMAS, whereupon the 1/4 part of the 1/5 part of the messuage and lot, descended to Esther Thomas, and whereas JOHN KEEN of Northern Liberties, house carpenter, is guardian of Esther Thomas, a minor, therefore, it shall be lawful for John Keen, to sell and convey the minor's share of the estate and convey title to the purchaser. 25 Mar 1805. 51. An act to erect the town of Greencastle, in Franklin county, into a borough. The town of Greencastle, shall be erected into a borough, bounded on the west side of Carlisle Street opposite DAVID RANKEN's meadow, etc. All persons entitled to vote are to meet at the house of JOHN NIGH. 25 Mar 1805. 52. An act to raise by lottery, a sum of money to defray the expence of building a German Presbyterian Church in the village of Maytown, in Lancaster county. That GEORGE HOLLINGER, JOHN HOLDEMAN, JACOB LONG, PHILIP GORNER, JAMES EAGEN, and FREDERICK GALBUCH, are hereby appointed commissioners. 25 Mar 1805. 54. An act to incorporate a company for making a road from the borough of Sunbury, Northumberland county, to the borough of Reading, Berks county. That JOSEPH PRIESTLEY and JOHN COWDEN, of the town of Northumberland, CHARLES HALL of Sunbury, DOCTOR JAMES DOOGALL, of Milton, DANIEL MONTGOMERY JR., of Danville, JACOB TOPPELL of Hamburgh, alias Kercherstown, JOSEPH HEISTER and JAMES MAY, of Reading, SAMUEL MORRIS, THOMAS LEIPER, WILLIAM TILGHMAN and JAMES GIBSON, of the city of Philadelphia, and WILLIAM HEPBURN of Lycoming county, are hereby appointed commissioners. 25 Mar 1805. 55. An act for the relief of JOHN CHANDLER. Whereas John Chandler, a native of Great Britain, in the month of March, 1803, he arrived in this state with an intention of residing therein, that in July following purchased of JOSEPH WILKINSON and ABRAHAM TRIMBLE, a plantation, containing 109 acres, in Nether Providence twp., Delaware county, bounded by lands of EDWARD TILGHMAN, MAHLON PERSONS and others, the consideration being paid received his deeds and hath been in possession of the premises from the time of his purchase, and has declared in court his intention of becoming a citizen of the United States, therefore, the title to all the above described real estate, acquired by John Chandler, by deeds shall remain as firm and effectual in law, as if John Chandler had previously taken a declaration of his intention to become a citizen. 25 Mar 1805. 59. An act for the relief of BENJAMIN CLARK. Whereas Benjamin Clark, now an inhabitant of Greene county, entered the service of his country for three years, in the revolutionary war, under the command of CAPTAIN KILGORE, in the 8th PA regiment, that he faithfully fulfilled the terms of his enlistment, that in 1777, while in actual service, he received a wound in his forehead, near a place called Boundbrook, in the state of New Jersey, that he afterwards in 1778 was wounded with two balls in one of his thighs, and with another in one of his hands, in a march to Fort M'Intosh, under the command of COLONEL JOHN CLARK, against the Indians, that shortly after he received said wounds, he became affected in his hearing and eyesight, so that he is at present nearly deaf and blind, believed to be the effects of the wounds he received in the service of his country, in consequence of which he is entirely unable to maintain himself and his numerous and helpless family, therefore, Benjamin Clark is hereby allowed $3.33 per month, during his natural life, payable in half yearly payments, to commence from the 1 Jan 1805. 29 Mar 1805. 60. An act to establish the court of justice and to provide for erecting public buildings for the use of Cambria county. That JOHN HORNER, JOHN J. EVANS, and ALEXANDER OGLE, are hereby appointed trustees for the county of Cambria, and authorized to take by grant or otherwise, of land and lots in the town of Ebensburg, as stipulated by REES LLOYD, JOHN LLOYD and STEPHEN LLOYD, by their proposals to the commissioners, plus deeds in trust for the lots for public use in the town of Ebensburg. 29 Mar 1805. 69. An act declaring part of Wyconisco Creek, Dauphin county, a public highway. That Wyconisco Creek in Dauphin county, from the mouth to ISAAC FERREE's mill dam is hereby declared a public highway. 5 Apr 1805. 70. An act for the relief of the supervisors of Waterford twp., in Erie county, for 1802. Whereas i pursuance of an act for laying out and keeping in repair roads passed 6 Apr 1782, that ASA BAILEY and JOHN LYTLE SEN., were appointed supervisors for Waterford twp., Erie county, and their accounts were settled on 25 Mar 1803, and a balance found in favor of $37.34, and as the township has since been divided into two twps, and the new twp., struck off from Waterford is called M'Kean twp., and there is no surplus in the hands of the officers, therefore, the next road tax, it shall be lawful to levy and collect the sum of $37.34 and to pay the balance due. 1 Apr 1805. 75. An act for the speedy redemption of certificates. Whereas an act passed to compensate DAVID MEADE and others, 9 Mar 1796, certain certificates were issued as evidences of credits in favor of David Meade and others, and part of the debt remains unpaid, therefore, it shall be optional with the holder of the certificates called Wyoming credits, and also those issued under an act passed 19 Feb 1801 for the relief of PETER WIKOFF, JONATHAN BAYARD SMITH and others, to be applied to take out warrants of land. 1 Apr 1805. 77. An act to incorporate a company to make a road from the Spring House tavern, in Montgomery county, through Strawntown, in Bucks county, to Bethlehem, in Northampton county. That JACOB CLEMMENS, JOHN ROBERTS ESQ., and CHRISTIAN DULL of Montgomery county, DAVID THOMAS, THOMAS MATTHIAS and JOHN STOKES, of Bucks county, and ABRAHAM MINCH of Northampton county, are hereby appointed commissioners. 4 Apr 1805. 84. An act granting a lot of donation land. Whereas THOMAS PRICE, early in the revolutionary war, served as sergeant in COLONEL MILES's regiment, that in the battle of Long Island he was wounded and taken prisoner, that to preserve life, he was forced to enlist with the enemy, was by them transported to Nova Scotia, from thence he made his escape, by traveling by land, round the head of the bay of Soundy to New England, and thence to the army, where he faithfully served out the remainder of the period of his enlistment, that in consequence of the wound he received in the service and his advanced age, he is unable to procure a livelihood by labour, therefore, the land officers are hereby authorized to place Thomas Price on the list of those entitled to donation lands, and draw and patent to him such land as he would have been entitled to as a sergeant, if he had served to the conclusion of the war. 4 Apr 1805. 86. An act appointing commissioners to fix a site for the seat of justice in Clearfield county. The appointed commissioners shall meet at the house of BENJAMIN PATTON, in the town of Bellefont. 4 Apr 1805. 87. An act concerning election districts. That Mahantango twp., Northumberland county, shall form an election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house of FREDERICK STEES. That Pitt twp., Allegheny county, shall be erected into a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by THOMAS WILSON. That Saint Clair twp., Allegheny county, shall be erected into a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by THOMAS M'CULLEY. That the electors of Ohio twp., Allegheny county, shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by JOHN MOORE. That the electors of Moon twp., Allegheny county, shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by JOHN BYERS. That part of Greene county, beginning at Washington county line, at the house of THOMAS CARTER, to MICHAEL TURNER's, thence to BENJAMIN CLARK's, etc., shall be a separate election district, the 5th district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by DANIEL GRAY ESQ. That Caernarvon twp., and part of Earl and Salsbury twp., Lancaster county, shall form a separate election district, beginning at Chester county line at JAMES M'CALMONT's mill, to WILLIAM GAULT's land where HENRY GABLE lives, to MATTHEW HENDERSON's land where HENRY ORLEDY lives, in Salsbury twp., to the Presbyterian meeting house in Earl twp., to CHRISIAN WEAVER's mill, between the land of GEORGE KINSER and MARTIN OVERHOLFER, to the Brecknock twp. line, etc., is hereby made into a separate election district and the electors shall hold their elections at the house formerly occupied by THOMAS ain PERKINS as a tavern, now the property of JEFFE LAVERTY, in Churchtown. That the electors of Mountjoy twp., 3rd district, Lancaster county, shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by HENRY MAYER's. That the electors of the 4th district, composed of Bald Eagle twp., in Centre county, shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by JOHN FREDERICKS. That Greenfield twp., Bedford county, is hereby erected into separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by ULRICH ZETH. That the original boundary of M'Kean twp., Erie county, shall be a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by ALEXANDER HAMILTON. That Venango twp., Crawford county, is hereby erected into an election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by PHILIP STRAW. That Sadsbury and West Caln twps., Chester county, are hereby erected into a separate election district, to be called the 10th district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house of JOHN SLOAN, now occupied by JOHN JONES, innkeeper in Sadsbury twp. That part of Pittstown election district, Luzerne county, shall be a separate election district and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by JOHN HARDING. That part of Lycoming county called Burlington district, shall be a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by NATHANIAL ALTER, in Burlington. That the electors of Georgetown district in Beaver county, shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by WILLIAM KERNEGHEY, in Georgetown. That the electors in Antrim twp., Franklin county, shall hold their elections at the house of JOHN BESHORE, in the borough of Greencastle. That Fairfield twp., Westmoreland county, shall be a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by WILLIAM RAMSAY, at the place known by the name of Palmer's Fort. That Donegal twp., Westmoreland county, shall be a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by MAJOR JOHN AMBROSE. That Conemaugh twp., Somerset county, shall be a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by JOHN FORREY. That Sandylake twp., Mercer county, shall be an election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by ADAM HILL. That Wolf Creek twp., Mercer county, shall be a separate election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by DANIEL M'KINLEY. That Slippery rock twp., Mercer county, shall be an election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now occupied by JOSEPH CAMPBELL. 4 Apr 1805. 89. An act to subscribe for copies of a digest of the laws of this commonwealth in the German language. That the governor is hereby authorized to subscribe for 1000 copies of the laws published by COLLINSON READ, together with the constitution of the United States and the state, to be translated, and published in the German Language by JOHN RITTER and CHARLES KESSLER, of the borough of Reading. 4 Apr 1805. 95. An act for recovery of the debts due from the late JOHN NICHOLSON to this commonwealth. That the governor is to contract with SAMUEL NICHOLSON and SAMUEL BLYTHE, for the complete payment and satisfaction of all the liens on the estate of the late John Nicholson, to the amount of $300,00.00. 4 Apr 1805. 95. A supplement to an act to empower the trustees of Crawford country to erect a building for a seminary of learning in the town of Meadville. That JAMES BURCHFIELD, JAMES HERRINGTON, JOHN BROOKS, HENRY REICHARD, WILLIAM MOORE, JOHN PATTERSON, JOHN LIMBER and HENRY HURST, are hereby constituted and appointed trustees, in addition to the already appointed trustees. 4 Apr 1805. T.M. THOMPSON, Secretary, Lancaster PA 27 Jun 1806. Note: The years 1805 and 1806 completed together.