simpson

11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry

Name Simpson, James L. Rank: Major Company F & S
Enlisted/Enrolled Date: 10 Nov 1861 At: Smithville, Va.
By: For: Years Muster in Date: 22 Dec 1861
At: Elizabeth, Wirt Co., Va. By: Major Geo. C. Trimble, 11th VA. Infty
Description: (age) 32 (33) (born) Monroe Co., Va. (height) 5’-11”
(eyes) Blue (hair) Light (complexion) Fair (occupation) Painter (Tailor)
Muster Out Date: 23 Jan 1865 At: Deep Bottom, Va.
By:
Remarks: Term of service expired. Served as Captain of Company “C” from 22 Dec1861 until
promoted to Major 26 Nov 1863.

SUMMARY OF SERVICE

JAMES L. SIMPSON - Enrolled as Private on 10 November 1861. Was elected Captain of Company
“C” and muster into the U.S. service as such on 22 December 1861. Resigned from the service on 2
October 1862 believing that the duty required of him to be incompatible with the terms of his parole
and was honorably discharged 9 October 1862. He was recommissioned 9 October 1862 and again
mustered into the U.S. service as the Captain of Company “C” on 8 December 1862. Was sick at
home for a time in May of 1863. He received a commission as Major of the 11th W.Va. on 26
November 1863 to replace Major Van H. Bukey who had been promoted to Lieutenant Colonel of the
11th. Was mustered into the U.S. service as Major on 26 December 1863. Was in command of a
detachment of 4 companies (A,E,F,H) of the 11th WVa. from April 1864 until rejoining the rest of the
command about the end of September 1864. Contracted Chronic Diarrhea about the 1st of October
1864 for which he was treated by the Regimental Surgeon. Was sent home about 25 October
1864 to Parkersburg, WVa.under the care of a Dr. Welsh in order to receive hospital treatment.
Received commission as Lieutenant Colonel of the 11th on 2 November 1864 to replace Van H.
Bukey who had been promoted to Colonel of the 11th. Was granted a leave of absence dated 5
November 1864 for 20 days to recover. His leave was extended for another 20 days by orders dated
25 November 1864 and again for 30 days by orders dated 14 December. He returned to duty in
January of 1865, a few days before being mustered out. He was mustered out of the U.S. service on
23 January 1865 prior to being mustered into the U.S. service as Lieutenant Colonel.

COMPANY MUSTER ROLLS (1862 )

Name: Simpson, James L. Company “ C “ 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry

Jan & Feb/dated: Rank: Capt. Present Yes
Remarks: Enrolled 22 Dec 1861 at Elizabeth, Va.

Mar & Apr/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:

May & Jun/dated: Feb 28 to June 30/62 Rank: Capt Present Yes
Remarks:

Jul & Aug/dated: Rank: Capt Present Yes
Remarks:

Sep & Oct/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:

Nov & Dec/dated: Aug 30 to Dec 31/62 Rank: Capt Present Yes
Remarks: Commissioned 9 Oct 62.

Special Roll/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:

Misc Record: WVa. Archives Rec Group AR633 - Officers in 11th WVa. Vols Date:
Remarks: Commissioned Capt. 27 Dec 1861, Promoted Major. Commissioned Major 20 Nov 1863,
Commissioned Lt. Col 28 Oct 1864.

Misc Record: WVa. Arch Rec Grp AR639 Descr Book Co. C, 11 WVa. Vols Date:
Remarks: James L. Simpson, Age 32, 5’-11”, fair complexion, blue eyes, light hair, born Monroe
Co., Va., Painter, enlisted 10 Nov 1861 at Smithville by Jas L. Simpson for 3 years.

Misc Record: Company Muster in Roll, Elizabeth, Wirt County, Va. Date: 22 Dec. 1861
Remarks: Capt. Simpsons Company 11th Regt Va. Foot Volunteers - Muster in to date 22 Dec1861,
Elected Captain by Company.

“1862 Continued on separate sheet of other records”
OTHER RECORDS (1862)

Name: Simpson, James L. Company C 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry

Misc Record: Regimental Returns: Dated: 1862
Jan: Present. Mar: Present or absent not stated. Jun: Present. Oct: Tendered resignation and
honorably discharged per S.O. No. 285, A.G.O., 9 Oct 1862. Dec: Recommissioned 9 Oct 1862.

Misc Record: Detachment Muster In Roll dated Wheeling, Va. Dated: 8 Dec 1862
Captain, age 33, Muster in to date 8 Dec 1862, Enrolled 8 Dec 1862 for 3 years, Commissioned by
Governor of Virginia as Captain 11th Regt Infty, Va. Volunteers, mustered into service as such 8 Dec
62 to fill vacancy.

Misc Record: Charges & Specifications preferred against Captain James L. Simpson, 11th Va. Vols
Charge: Violating the 7th & 8th Articles of War - Specification: on or about 18 Jan 1862 at Spencer,
Va. went among the men of Company “A”, 9th Va. Vols and told many members of Company that
after he (Simpson) left with his Company and the officers who were to leave with him, they (the said
Company “A”) were free and at liberty to go home - could not be compelled to do guard duty etc. as
there were no officers belonging to the Company thereby causing the officers of said Company ”A”
much difficulty on account of the refusal of many men of said Company “A” to obey orders - (signed)
H.C. McWhorten, 2nd Lt., Company “A”, 9th Regt Va. Vols - (witnesses signed) David Short, Simon
A. Davis, Wm C. Haley, Wm R. Wilson.

Misc Record: Memorandum From Prisoner of War Records: Dated:
Captured at Spencer, Va. and paroled 2 Sept 1862. Reported at Camp Chase, Ohio 24 Sept 1862.
Discharged by order of War Dept.

Misc Record: Columbus, Ohio Dated: 2 Oct 1862
(TO) Major General Lew Wallace - Sir, I hereby tender my resignation as Captain, Company “C”,
11th Regt Va. Vol Infty, unconditionally and immediate, for the following reasons. - Viz. That I
believe the duties required of me to be incompatible with my parole. I am not indebted to the U.S.,
have no Government property and was paid last by Major Carr to the last day of August 1862. I have
the honor to be Your Obedient Servant, Jas L. Simpson.

Headquarters U.S. Paroled Forces, Columbus, Ohio 2 Oct 1862 - Approved and respectfully
forwarded to the Sec of War (signed) Lew Wallace, Maj Genl, etc. - S.O. 285, Para. 16, Oct 9, 1862

Misc Record: Officers Casualty Sheet - State of Wva. Dated:
James L. Simpson, Captain, etc. - 9 Oct 1862 - No. and source of order: No. 265 (285 ?)

(sheet of )

COMPANY MUSTER ROLLS (1863 )

Name: Simpson, James L. Company “ C “ 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry

Jan & Feb/dated: Rank: Capt Present Yes
Remarks:

Mar & Apr/dated: Rank: Capt Present Yes
Remarks:

May & Jun/dated: Rank: Capt Present Yes
Remarks:

Jul & Aug/dated: Rank: Capt Present Yes
Remarks:

Sep & Oct/dated: Rank: Capt Present not stated
Remarks:

Nov & Dec/dated: Rank: Capt Present Yes
Remarks: Promoted to Major 11th Wva. Regt Nov 20?/63, received commission 26 Nov 63.

Special Roll/dated: Dtd 17 April 1863 Rank: Capt Present Yes
Remarks:

Misc Record: Individual Muster Out Roll dated Parkersburg, Wva Date:
Remarks: 26 Dec 1863: Captain, age 35, muster out to date 26 Nov 63, last paid to 31 Oct 63 -
Promoted from Capt to Major vice Maj Van H. Bukey promoted Lt. Col. same Regt.

Misc Record: Regtl Returns: Date: 1863
Jan to Apr: Present. May: Absent, at home sick. Jun & Jul: Present. Sep & Oct: (11th WVAI)
Present. Nov: (Major) Present, promoted to Maj 20 Nov 63, commission recvd 26 Nov 63, not
mustered. Dec 63 to Mar 64: Present.

Misc Record: Telegram dated Clarksburg, WVa Date: 30 Nov 1863
American Telegraph Company, Baltimore & Cincinnati Division - Recvd Cumberland 30 Nov 63, 2
o’clock P.M. - (TO) Lt. Col. J.B. Frothingham, Com. Musters - Major Simpson, 11th Va. arrived here
to muster. Can he go to Cumberland for that purpose - Van H. Bukey, Lt. Col.

Reply dated Cumberland, Md 30 Nov 1863 - He may come if he chooses. Capt Morrow will be in
your neighborhood soon - John B. Frothingham, Lt. Col., A.D.C., U.S. Army, Com. of Musters, Dept
Wva.

FIELD & STAFF MUSTER ROLLS (1863 )

Name: Simpson, James L. Company “ C “ 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry

Nov & Dec/dated: Rank: Major Present Yes
Remarks: Promoted from Captain Company C, 26 Nov 63.

Special Roll/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:

Misc Record: Individual Muster In Roll dated Parkersburg, Wva. Date:
Remarks: 26 Dec 1863: Major, age 35, muster in to date 26 Nov 1863, joined/enrolled 26 Nov
1863 at Roane County, Wva for 3 years - promoted from Capt to Major vice Van H. Bukey promoted
Lt. Col. in same Regt.

COMPANY MUSTER ROLLS (1864 )

Misc Record: Company “C” Muster Out Roll dated Cumberland, Md. Date: 24 Dec 1864:
Remarks: Captain, age 33, served as Private from 10 Nov 1862 to 22 Dec 1861, served as Captain to
9 Oct 62, resigned & recommissioned Capt 8 Dec 62, served as Captain to 26 Nov 63, promoted to
Major 11th Regt WVA Inf Vols.

FIELD & STAFF MUSTER ROLLS (1864 )

Name: Simpson, James L. Company “ C “ 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry

Jan & Feb/dated: Rank: Major Present Yes
Remarks:

Mar & Apr/dated: Rank: Major Present No
Remarks: Commanding detachment 11th WVA Infty Vols.

May & Jun/dated: Rank: Major Present Yes
Remarks: Commanding detachment 11th WVA Infty Vols.

Jul & Aug/dated: Rank: Major Present No
Remarks: Commanding Battn at New Creek, WVA.

Sep & Oct/dated: Rank: Major Present Yes
Remarks:

Nov & Dec/dated: Rank: Major Present No
Remarks: Sick leave S.O. No. 210, Nov 5, extended by S.O. No. 221, Nov 25 and extended again
for 30 days 14 Dec 64 - Recvd commission of the Gov of the State of WVA as Lt. Col. 11th Regt
WVA Vols on the 2nd day of Nov 1864 - waiting muster since that date.

Special Roll/dated: Rank: Present
Remarks:

Misc Record: Detachment Muster Roll, Parkersburg, WVA Date: May & Jun 64
Remarks:
Major, Present, Pay due for commanding Company “C”, 11th Regt WVA Inf for the months of Sep &
Oct 63, said money not having been drawn.

Misc Record: Returns: 1863 / 64 Date:
Remarks: Dec 63 to Mar 64: Present. Apr & May: Absent in command of detachmt of 4 Cos, 11th
WVA Inf Vols, Parkersburg. Jun: Absent, Commanding detachment 11th WVA Inf. Jul: Absent, Comdg Cos. A,E,F & H. Aug: Absent, at New Creek Comdg Cos. A,E,F & H. Sep: Absent in field
comdg Battn Cos. A,E,F & H. Oct; Present, sick. Nov & Dec: Absent on sick leave S.O. No. 210,
Dept Of WVA 5 Nov 64, extended S.O. No. 221 25 Nov 64, H.Q. Dept Wva., recvd commission
from Gov of WVA as Lt. Col. 2 Nov 64, awaiting muster in since that date.
“1864 Continued on separate sheet of other records”
OTHER RECORDS (1864)

Name: Simpson, James L. Company C 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry

Misc Record: H.Q. 11th WVA Infty Vols, Cedar Creek, Va. Dated: 28 Oct 1864:
(TO) Captain Wm. McKinley, A.A.A.G., Army of WVA - Captain, I have the honor to apply for a
leave of absence of 20 days for the reasons set forth in the accompanying certificate. I am Your
Obedient Servant, James L. Simpson, Major 11th WVa...

H.Q. 11th WVA Infty Vols, Cedar Creek, Va. 28 Oct 1864: Respectfully forwarded approved, Van H.
Bukey, Lt. Col. Comdg Regt

H.Q. Medical Dept, 3rd Brigade, 1st Infty Div, Cedar Creek, Va. 28 Oct 1864: Respectfully
forwarded approved, W.S. Welsh, Surgeon In Chief, 3rd Brig., 1st Infty Div.. Army WVA.

H.Q. 3rd Brigade, 1st Infty Div, Cedar Creek, Va. 28 Oct 1864: Respectfully forwarded, Milton
Wells, Col. Comdg Brig.

Office Medical Director, 1st Infty Div, Dept WVA, Cedar Creek, Va. 29 Oct 1864: Respectfully
forwarded approved, D. Boguly?, Surgeon In Chief.

H.Q. 1st Infty Div, Dept WVA, Cedar Creek, Va. 29 Oct 1864: Respectfully forwarded approved,
T.M. Harris

H.Q. Dept WVA, Cedar Creek, Va. 30 Oct 1864: Respectfully referred to Surgeon J.M. Leete, Med
Dir, Army Wva who will make a personal examination of this officer and report, by order of Maj Genl
Crook, Wm. McKinley Jr., Capt & A.A.A.G.

H.Q. Army WVA, Med Dir Office, near Cedar Creek, Va. 1 Nov 1864: Respectfully returned
approved often having examined Major Simpson, James M. Leete, Surgeon U.S. Vols, Med Dir.

Misc Record: Parkersburg, WVA, Dated: 15 Nov 1864:
(TO) William McKinley, Capt & A.A.A.G. - Captain, I have the honor to request a renewal of my
leave of absence which expires on the 24th of November 1864 for an additional 20 days. For reasons
in Surgeons Certificate of disability. I am sir, Very Respectfully, Your Obedient Servant, James L.
Simpson, Lt. Col., 11th Regt WVA Infty
“1864 continued on next sheet”

OTHER RECORDS (1864)

Name: Simpson, James L. Company C 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry

Misc Record: Continued from previous sheet Dated:
Parkersburg, WVA, 15 Nov 1864: James L. Simpson, Lt. Col., 11th WVA etc.... having applied for a
certificate upon which to base an application for the extension of his leave of absence. I certify that I
have carefully examined said officer and find him suffering from Typho-Malarial Fever complicated
with Chronic Diarrhea, characterized by painful acrid and extensive discharges producing great debility
and confining him to his bed ever since his arrival home (Nov 5, 1864) and that in consequence thereof
he is in my opinion unfit to perform the duties of a soldier. I further declare my belief that he will not be
able to resume his duties in a less period than 20 days and that such leave of absence is absolutely
necessary in order to save life. (signed) W.S. Welsh, Surgeon 15th Regt, WVA Vol. Infty.

Extended to Dec 14, 1864 - SU?, S.O. No. 221, __?__ Nov 25, 1864.

FIELD & STAFF MUSTER ROLLS (1865 )

Name: Simpson, James L. Company “ C “ 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry

Jan & Feb/dated: Rank: Major Present
Remarks: Discharged by expiration of term.

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: Mustered out of service 23 Jan 65.

Misc Record: Individual Muster Out Roll, Deep Bottom, Va. Date: 23 Jan 1865:
Major, age 34 ?, muster out to date 23 Jan 64, last paid to 31 Aug 64, mustered out by reason of
expiration of term under provisions of C.O. No. 75 War Dept 1864 pursuant to S.O. No. 21 dated
H.Q. 24th A.C. 21 Jan 1865 - Enrolled as private in the 11th Regt WVA Inf Vols 10 Nov 1861,
served as such until 22 Dec 1861 when promoted to Captain in same Regt, served as such until 26
Nov 1863 when promoted Major, This officer will receive no final payments until having satisfied the
Pay Dept that he is not indebted to the U.S. on any account whatever.

Misc Record: Field & Staff Muster Out Roll, Richmond, Va. Date: 17 Jun 1865:
Major, age 35, entered service as Capt. and served as such to 26 Nov 63 when he was promoted to
Major & served as such to 23 Jan 65 when he was mustered out of service - Not recognized as Lt. Col

Misc Record: Officers Casualty Sheet State of WVA: Date:
Jas L. Simpson, Lt. Col. 11th Regt Infty, Resigned 21 Jan 1865, expiration of term. No. & Source of
the order accepting resignation: 21, 24th A.C.

Misc Record: Discharge Certificate, 23 Jan 1865 (found in Pension files): Date:
James L. Simpson, Major 11th WVA Infty Vols, Enrolled as a Private 10 Nov 1861 to serve 3 years
or during the War. Discharged from the service of the United States at Camp 24th Army Corps, Deep Bottom, Va. by reason of expiration of term of service, was born in Montgomery County, Va., 34,
years old, 5’-11” tall, fair complexion, gray eyes, auburn hair, occupation when enrolled: Taylor
- Given at Camp 24th Army Corps, Deep Bottom, Va., 23 Jan 1865 - (signed) Jere Horton, 2nd Lt.
34th Mass Infty Vols & Asst Com. Of Musters, Indpt Div., 24th Army Corps.
RECORDS FROM PENSION FILES

Name: Simpson, James L. Company C 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry

Misc Record: State of West Virginia, Wood County, Dated: 18 Nov. 1879:
(Extract),Declaration for Original Invalid Pension - Declaration of James L. Simpson, resident of
Parkersburg, W.Va. , age 48 - Was enrolled 10 Nov. 1861 in Company “C”, 11th W.Va. Vol. Infty
commanded by Col. J.C. Rathbone, was honorably discharged at Bermuda Hundred as Major of same
Regt by promotion and Deep Bottom 23 Jan 1865, age is now 48, description is 5’-11” tall, fair
complexion, sandy (dark) hair, blue or gray eyes. While in service at Valley of Virginia on or about 1
Oct 1864 during General Sheridans Campaign, contracted Chronic Diarrhea from which he has never
been free of since. Was treated by Surgeon of the Regt until about Oct 25 64 and was sent home on
sick leave, Dr. Welsh was sent with him. His sick leave was extended to nearly 60 days, treated by Dr.
Clammer ?, Asst Surgeon in charge Hospital this City, He then returned to the Regt and was
discharged about Jan 23, 1865, a few days afterward. Never in service other than above, he first
served as dispatch carrier without compensation nearly 3 months. Since leaving service resided in
Parkersburg, W.Va., occupation has been Merchant/Tailor, was in good physical health prior to
service, when enrolled occupation was Tailor. Now totally disabled from obtaining subsistence by
manual labor. Appoints S.F. Shaw of Parkersburg, W.Va. his Attorney. He has not applied for or
received a pension, his P.O. Address is Parkersburg, Wood Co., W.Va.. (signed) James L. Simpson.
(witnesses) J.L Buckley, Chas M. Ranch (Rauch ?) of Parkersburg, Certified by O.M. Clemens, Clerk
Wood Co. Circuit Court. (stamped “Dept of the Interior, Pension Office Nov. 20 1879”)

Misc Record: Dept. of the Interior, Pension Office, Dated: 26 April 1881
Request to Adj. General for report of service & disability in case no. 331170 of James L. Simpson,
Private Co. C, 11th W.VA. Vols. disabled by chronic diarrhea at valley of Virginia 1 Oct. 1864;
discharged 23 Jan 1865 - please give full military history (signed) O.F.G. Clarke ? - Recvd A.G.O.S.,
22 Nov. 1881 (Document stamped “U.S. Pension Office, Feb. 14, 1882”) ...............Reply dated: War
Dept. Adj. Generals Office, Washington, 13 Feb. 1882: (To) Commissioner of Pensions- Reply to
Pension Office request for information dtd 26 April 1881 in application for pension No. 331.170 of
James L. Simpson who entered service of U.S. as Captain Co. C, 11th W.VA. Vols. 22 Dec. 1861:

Co. C Muster Rolls: Jan & Feb. (first on file): & subsequent rolls to Aug. 31/62 = Present... ..Was
honorably discharged 9 Oct. 1862 upon tender of resignation. Re-entered service & mustered in as
Captain same Regt 8 Dec. 1862.         Subsequent rolls of Company C to 31 Oct. 1863 = Present
Was mustered in as Major same Regt to date 26 Nov. 1863.        Subsequent rolls of Field & Staff to
29 Feb. 64 = Present.     To June 30/64 = Absent in command of detchmt of 11th W.VA. Infty.
Roll for July & Aug. / 64 = Absent comdg Battn at New Creek, W.Va..         Sept. & Oct. 64 =
Present.     Nov. & Dec. 64 = Absent sick leave S.O. No. 210 Nov. 5, extended by S.O. No. 221 Nov.
25 and extended again 30 days 14 Dec. 64.        Following is copy of Surgeons Certificate “ same
information as given in record shown above dtd H.Q. 11th W.VA. Infty Medical Dept., Cedar Creek,
Va. Oct. 28, 1864 “.......He was mustered out to take effect 23 Jan 1865 as Major on Individual
Muster Out Roll.     (signed) Winett Barber, Capt. 16th Infty, Actg. A.A. General.

RECORDS FROM PENSION FILES

Name: Simpson, James L. Company C 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry

Misc Record: State of W.Va., County of Wood, Dated: 19 Jan 1882:
General Affidavit in matter of James L. Simpson (Lt. Col., not mustered), Major, 11th W.Va. Infty
Vols. - Affidavit of J.E. Remley of Parkersburg, W.Va.; he is well acquainted with Major Simpson and
has been for 23 years having lived in same block in Parkersburg for 20 years; knew him to be sound
and healthy when he entered the Army in 1861; saw him whenever he came home from the Army until
about Feb. or March 65 when returned mustered out. From Mar 65 for a year or more entirely unable
to perform manual labor and then only light and moderate kind for several years; suffered from chronic
diarrhea accompanied with pains through the loins and back; judged that he has been unable to
perform labor for 1/2 the time from his muster out to this date; he has been confined to house
frequently for several weeks at a time, even as late as 1881 down to present time; seen him every day
with few exceptions since 1865 having been in the coal business and twice Mayor of Parkersburg and
frequently in the City Council and am now Deputy U.S. Marshal -- His P.O. Address is Parkersburg,
Wood County, W.VA. (signed) J.E. Remley (witness) . Clouston - Certified by O.M. Clemens, Clerk
Wood County Circuit Court.

Misc Record: State of W.VA., County of Wood, Dated: 25 Jan 1882
General Affidavit of Levi Campbell in matter of James L. Simpson, late Major of 11th WVA. Infty -
Was well acquainted with Maj. Simpson having known him for 20 years since Dec. 1861, having lived
a close neighbor ever since & been intimately acquainted with him; Campbell served as Captain of Co.
D in same Regt; About Sept. or Oct. 1864 Maj. Simpson was seriously afflicted with chronic diarrhea
and continued to be so until about Feb. of 1865; When Campbell mustered out of service lived as close
neighbor to Simpson ever since; Knows from personal knowledge that Maj. Simpson has been
continually afficted, more or less, from that time to the present; For the first year Simpson was unable
to follow his occupation at all and for a number of years could not follow any regular business;
Simpson has been sick from time to time ever since; whenever he perform active work it would recur;
Campbell judged that he had lost 1/2 of his time since his muster out and at no time could perform
hard active labor; --Campbells P.O. Address Parkersburg, Wood Co., WVA. (signed) Levi Campbell,.
late Capt. Co. D, 11th W.VA. - Certified by O.M. Clemens, Clerk Wood Co. Circuit Court

Misc Record: State of W.VA., Wood Co., Dated: 18 July 1904
Widows Application for Accrued Pension: Application of Mary Simpson, widow of Col. James L.
Simpson, deceased, who died 28 June 1904 and who was granted pension by Certificate 218889 and
paid by Pension Agent at Washington up to 4 June 1904. She married J.L. Simpson on 24 June 1851
at Fincastle, Va., maiden Nane was Mary J. Woods. Appoints Sidney T. Shaw of Parkersburg,
W.VA. (no fee). Her residence is North Parkersburg, Saunders Ave, Wood County, W.VA.. (signed)
Mary J. (her X mark) Simpson. (witnesses) Mrs. Nora Thompson (daughter of Mary Simpsons sister)
and Mrs. Kate Organ (partly raised by Col. Simpson & wife) of Chillicothe, Ohio. They knew her as
the widow of James L. Simpson who died 28 June 1904. (witness to all above) Alice E. Shaw.
Certified by S.F. Shaw, Notary Public, Wood County, W.Va.. - Notation on Document: “No. interest
in claim only as friends and make no charge for services. Mrs. Simpson is left with no children and no
one to care for her” - (stamped “_?_ Div. July 29, 1904”)

RECORDS FROM PENSION FILES

Name: Simpson, James L. Company C 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry

Misc Record: State of W.VA., County of Wood, Dated: 16 Aug. 1904
General Affidavit of G.B Gibbens, age 62 of Parkersburg, WVa. in claim of Mary J. Simpson 218889,
wife and widow of Col. J.L. Simpson- Knew Col. Simpson most intimately during and since the war;
family was very near neighbors to Gibbens father who was Mayor of this city; He frequently carried
dispatches to and from him when he (Gibbens) was an Independent Scout; Have been in close touch
with Simpson and family up to his death; Mary J. Simpson and his wife at the time and has lived with
him up to his death; quite sure neither was previously married; Gibbens was Postmaster of
Parkersburg at this time. (signed) G.B. Gibbens - Certified by S.F. Shaw, Notary Public who stated he
was Gibbens teacher in 1855 & 56. (Document stamped “U.S. Pension Office, Sept. 8, 1904”)

Misc Record: State of W.VA., County of Wood, Dated: 19 Aug. 1904
General Affidavit of J.E. Remley, age 74 resident of Parkersburg, W.Va.., twice Mayor of that City in
claim of Mary J. Simpson for accrued pension , widow of Lt. Col. J.L. Simpson- Has known wife of
J.L. Simpson since 1859 when he lived at Reedy, Roane County, W.Va..; Simpson moved there from
Botetourt County, Va.; The Simpsons and Remley moved to Parkersburg in 1861 and lived close
neighbors for nearly 30 years until Simpson moved 2 miles from the city but had met them often
almost every month since up to his death; Mary J. Simpson was with him all this time; Remley & has
wife boarded with them in 1862; Simpsons lived most happily from 1859 to his death; Remley stated
that he would have known through his intimate acquaintance with the Simpsons if they were
previously married; Remley was election commissioner in Reedy Precinct in 1861 and Col. Simpson,
his father and brother were the only 3 who voted against succession; Remley did not vote; Mary
Simpson is left with no means. (signed) J.E. Remley - Certified by S.F. Shaw, Notary Public, Wood
Co., W.Va..

Misc Record: State of W.VA., County of Wood Dated: ? Aug. 1904
General Affidavit of Mrs. E.F. Thompson of Chillicothe, Ross Co., Ohio, niece of Mrs. Simpson in
claim of Mary J. Simpson for accrued pension , widow of Lt. Col. J.L. Simpson- Thompsons maiden
name was Lenore Boyere; her mothers maiden name was Catherine Wood, sister of Mary J. Simpson;
Thompsons mother died when she was 10 and she was raised by her aunt Mary Simpson until she was
married; neither her aunt nor uncle were previously married and her aunt live with her husband J.L.
Simpson until his death; Mrs Thompson was born in Botetourt County, Va. and came to Parkersburg
at age 10; J.L. Simpson died 27 June 1904; she arrived the next day and is still caring for her aunt who
is very feeble and confined to her bed nearly 2 weeks; her aunt is entirely out of means. (signed) Mrs.
E.F. Thompson (Document stamped “U.S. Pension Office, Sept. 9, 1904” and again stamped “South
Div. Sept. 12, 1904 Received”)

Misc Record: State of W.VA., Co. of Wood, Dated: 25 Nov. 1904
Declaration for Original Pension of a Widow - Child or Children Under 16 Years Surviving Act of July
14, 1862 and Supplemental Acts Amendatory Thereof: Mary Jane Simpson, age 77, Resident of
Parkersburg, Wood Co., W.Va.. No. 2133 1/2 Murdock Ave; widow of Jas L. Simpson, Major who
“Continued on next sheet”

RECORDS FROM PENSION FILES

Name: Simpson, James L. Company C 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry

Misc Record: Continued from previous sheet Dated: 25 Nov. 1904
served from Dec. 1861 as a Captain and Major in the 11th W.Va.. Infty and who died of heart failure
and chronic diarrhea on 28 June 1904 at Parkersburg, W.Va..; she was married under name of Mary
Jane Woods to James L. Simpson on 24 June 1851 by “see marriage certificate in Pension Office” at
Fincastle, Botetourt Co., Va.; she has not remarried since soldiers death; had no children under 16 at
soldiers death; she has never applied for pension before; appoints S. F. Shaw of 505, 13th Street,
Parkersburg her Atty; (signed) Mary Jane her X mark Simpson (witness) Dora E. Watson & Leanora
Thompson of Parkersburg. “Document was not certified or signed by any official” (Document
stamped “Record Division Nov. 30, 1904” and “U.S. Pension Office, Nov. 29, 1904” and again
stamped “Internal Bureau of Pensions, Record Div., Dec. 1-04”

Misc Record: State of W.VA., County of Wood, Dated: 7 Dec. 1904:
Declaration for Original Pension of a Widow - Child or Children Under 16 Years Surviving Act of July
14, 1862 and Supplemental Acts Amendatory Thereof:

“ all same as declaration above dated 25 Nov. 1904 except as follows:”

Address 2415 1/2 Murdock Ave; J.L. Simpson served as Capt. & Major Oct. 28, 1863.; Applied for
no pension except accrued; witness Bertha L Lowther; witness Merkle A. Thompson and Leonora
Thompson of Chillicothe, Ross Co., Ohio; certified by G.N. Taggart, Notary Pubic; Document stamps
not legible to read clearly but are dated Dec.

Misc Record: Death Certificate, Wood County, W.Va.. Dated: 21 Jan 1905
J.L. Simpson died in Wood County, W.Va. 28 June 1904 - Certified by W.E. Stout, Clerk of County
Court, Parkersburg, W.VA. 21 Jan 1905.

Misc Record: U.S. Pension Agency, Washington, D.C., Dated: 19 June 1905
Pensioner dropped, Certificate No. 588245, widow, Mary J. Simpson, soldier James L. Simpson,
Major 11th W.Va.. Vol. Infty; Pensioner Mary J. Simpson was never paid on original issue has been
dropped because of death, reimbursement claim having been filed, fee order is included herewith.
(signed) “illegible” (Document stamped “Finance Division, Bureau of Pensions, June 21, 1905”)

(sheet of )
JAMES L. SIMPSON, 11TH W.VA. INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS
CAPTAIN OF COMPANY “C” AND MAJOR OF THE REGIMENT

RECORDS FROM THE WEST VIRGINIA ARCHIVES

Record Group AR633 - List of Officers in 11th W.VA. Volunteers - Listed Commissioned Captain 27 Dec 1861, Promoted Major. Commissioned Major 20 Nov 1863, Commissioned Lt. Col 28 Oct 1864.
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Record Group AR 639 - Description Book Company C, 11th W.VA. Volunteers - Lists James L. Simpson, Age 32, 5’-11”, fair complexion, blue eyes, light hair, born Monroe County, Va., Painter, enlisted 10 Nov 1861 at Smithville by Jas L. Simpson for 3 years.
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INFORMATION FROM MILITARY SERVICE RECORDS NATIONAL ARCHIVES MICROFILM RECORDS SERIES M508, ROLLS 185 THROUGH 195 AND 243. (Researched and compiled by James A. Libertini)
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1861

Company Muster in Roll: Capt. Simpsons Company 11th Regt Va. Foot Volunteers, Elizabeth, Wirt County, Va. 22 Dec. 1861 - Muster in to date 22 Dec1861, Elected Captain by Company.
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Company “C” Muster Rolls:
Jan & Feb: Captain, Present, Enrolled 22 Dec 1861 at Elizabeth, Va.
Feb 28 to 30 June: Captain, Present
Jul & Aug: Captain, Present
Aug 30 to Dec 31: Captain, Present, Commissioned 9 Oct 62.
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Detachment Muster In Roll dated Wheeling, Va. 8 Dec 1862: Captain, age 33, Muster in to date 8 Dec 1862, Enrolled 8 Dec 1862 for 3 years, Commissioned by Governor of Virginia as Captain 11th Regt Infty, Va. Volunteers, mustered into service as such 8 Dec 62 to fill vacancy.
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Returns: Jan: Present. Mar: Present or absent not stated. Jun: Present. Oct: Tendered resignation and honorably discharged per S.O. No. 285, A.G.O., 9 Oct 1862. Dec: Recommissioned 9 Oct 1862.
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Charges & Specifications preferred against Captain James L. Simpson, 11th Va. Vols - Charge: Violating the 7th & 8th Articles of War - Specification: on or about 18 Jan 1862 at Spencer, Va. went among the men of Company “A”, 9th Va. Vols and told many members of Company that after he (Simpson) left with his Company and the officers who were to leave with him, they (the said Company “A”) were free and at liberty to go home - could not be compelled to do guard duty etc. as there were no officers belonging to the Company thereby causing the officers of said Company ”A” much difficulty on account of the refusal of many men of said Company “A” to obey orders - (signed) H.C. McWhorten, 2nd Lt., Company “A”, 9th Regt Va. Vols - (witnesses signed) David Short, Simon A. Davis, Wm C. Haley, Wm R. Wilson.
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Memorandum From Prisoner of War Records: Captured at Spencer, Va. and paroled 2 Sept 1862. Reported at Camp Chase, Ohio 24 Sept 1862. Discharged by order of War Dept.
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Columbus, Ohio 2 Oct 1862 - (TO) Major General Lew Wallace - Sir, I hereby tender my resignation as Captain, Company “C”, 11th Regt Va. Vol Infty, unconditionally and immediate, for the following reasons. - Viz. That I believe the duties required of me to be incompatible with my parole. I am not indebted to the U.S., have no Government property and was paid last by Major Carr to the last day of August 1862. I have the honor to be Your Obedient Servant, Jas L. Simpson.

Headquarters U.S. Paroled Forces, Columbus, Ohio 2 Oct 1862 - Approved and respectfully forwarded to the Sec of War (signed) Lew Wallace, Maj Genl, etc. - S.O. 285, Para. 16, Oct 9, 1862
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Officers Casualty Sheet - State of Wva. - James L. Simpson, Captain, etc. - 9 Oct 1862 - No. and source of order: No. 265 (285 ?)
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1863

Company “C” Muster Rolls:
Jan & Feb, Mar & Apr, Special Roll 17 Apr, May & Jun, Jul & Aug: Captain, Present.
Sep & Oct: Captain, Present or Absent not stated. Nov & Dec: Promoted to Major, 11th Wva. Regt 20? Nov 1863. Received commission 26 Nov 63.
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Individual Muster Out Roll dated Parkersburg, Wva. 26 Dec 1863: Captain, age 35, muster out to date 26 Nov 63, last paid to 31 Oct 63 - Promoted from Capt to Major vice Maj Van H. Bukey promoted Lt. Col. same Regt.
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Individual Muster In Roll dated Parkersburg, Wva. 26 Dec 1863: Major, age 35, muster in to date 26 Nov 1863, joined/enrolled 26 Nov 1863 at Roane County, Wva for 3 years - promoted from Capt to Major vice Van H. Bukey promoted Lt. Col. in same Regt.
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Field & Staff Muster Rolls: Dec: Major, Present, promoted from Capt Co. “C” 26 Nov 63.
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Returns: Jan to Apr: Present. May: Absent, at home sick. Jun & Jul: Present. Sep & Oct: (11th WVAI) Present. Nov: (Major) Present, promoted to Maj 20 Nov 63, commission recvd 26 Nov 63, not mustered. Dec 63 to Mar 64: Present.
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Telegram dated Clarksburg, Wva 30 Nov 1863 - American Telegraph Company, Baltimore & Cincinnati Division - Recvd Cumberland 30 Nov 63, 2 o’clock P.M. - (TO) Lt. Col. J.B. Frothingham, Com. Musters - Major Simpson, 11th Va. arrived here to muster. Can he go to Cumberland for that purpose - Van H. Bukey, Lt. Col.

Reply dated Cumberland, Md 30 Nov 1863 - He may come if he chooses. Capt Morrow will be in your neighborhood soon - John B. Frothingham, Lt. Col., A.D.C., U.S. Army, Com. of Musters, Dept Wva.
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1864

Field & Staff Muster Rolls:
Jan & Feb, May & Jun: Major, Present, Commanding Detchmt 11th WVA Inf Vols.
Mar & Apr: Major, Absent commanding Detchmt 11th WVA Inf Vols. Jul & Aug: Major, Absent commanding Battn at New Creek, Wva. Sep & Oct: Major, Present. Nov & Dec: Major, Absent, Sick leave S.O. No. 210, Nov 5, extended by S.O. No. 221, Nov 25 and
extended again for 30 days 14 Dec 64 - Recvd commission of the Gov of the State of WVA as Lt. Col. 11th Regt WVA Vols on the 2nd day of Nov 1864 - waiting muster since that date.
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Detachment Muster Roll, Parkersburg, WVA for May & June 1864: Major, Present, Pay due for commanding Company “C”, 11th Regt WVA Inf for the months of Sep & Oct 63, said money not having been drawn.
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Company “C” Muster Out Roll dated Cumberland, MD 24 Dec 1864: Captain, age 33, served as Private from 10 Nov 1862 to 22 Dec 1861, served as Captain to 9 Oct 62, resigned & recommissioned Capt 8 Dec 62, served as Captain to 26 Nov 63, promoted to Major 11th Regt WVA Inf Vols.
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Returns: Dec 63 to Mar 64: Present. Apr & May: Absent in command of detachment of 4 Cos, 11th WVA Inf Vols, Parkersburg. Jun: Absent, Commanding detachment 11th WVA Inf. Jul: Absent, Comdg Cos. A,E,F & H. Aug: Absent, at New Creek Comdg Cos. A,E,F & H. Sep: Absent in field comdg Battn Cos. A,E,F & H. Oct; Present, sick. Nov & Dec: Absent on sick leave S.O. No. 210, Dept Of WVA 5 Nov 64, extended S.O. No. 221 25 Nov 64, H.Q. Dept Wva., recvd commission from Gov of WVA as Lt. Col. 2 Nov 64, awaiting muster in since that date.
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H.Q. 11th WVA Infty Vols, Cedar Creek, Va. 28 Oct 1864: (TO) Captain Wm. McKinley, A.A.A.G., Army of WVA - Captain, I have the honor to apply for a leave of absence of 20 days for the reasons set forth in the accompanying certificate. I am Your Obedient Servant, James L. Simpson, Major 11th WVa...

H.Q. 11th WVA Infty Medical Dept, Cedar Creek, Va. Oct 28, 1864: Major James L. Simpson, 11th WVA, etc..... applied for a certificate upon which to ground an application for a leave of absence that he may receive the benefits of hospital treatment. I certify that I have carefully examined said officer and find him suffering from Chronic Diarrhea of one? months standing, characterized by painful blood and mucous discharges and producing great debility and that in consequence thereof he is in my opinion unfit to perform the duties of a soldier. I further declare my belief that he will not be able to resume his duties in a less period than 20 days and that such leave of absence is necessary in order that he may receive such treatment it is impossible for him to receive in the field or camp and in order to save his life. (signed) E.D.J. Bond, Asst Surgeon, 11th WVA Infty, in charge.

H.Q. 11th WVA Infty Vols, Cedar Creek, Va. 28 Oct 1864: Respectfully forwarded approved, Van H. Bukey, Lt. Col. Comdg Regt

H.Q. Medical Dept, 3rd Brigade, 1st Infty Div, Cedar Creek, Va. 28 Oct 1864: Respectfully forwarded approved, W.S. Welsh, Surgeon In Chief, 3rd Brig., 1st Infty Div.. Army WVA.

H.Q. 3rd Brigade, 1st Infty Div, Cedar Creek, Va. 28 Oct 1864: Respectfully forwarded, Milton Wells, Col. Comdg Brig.

Office Medical Director, 1st Infty Div, Dept WVA, Cedar Creek, Va. 29 Oct 1864: Respectfully forwarded approved, D. Boguly?, Surgeon In Chief.

H.Q. 1st Infty Div, Dept WVA, Cedar Creek, Va. 29 Oct 1864: Respectfully forwarded approved, T.M. Harris

H.Q. Dept WVA, Cedar Creek, Va. 30 Oct 1864: Respectfully referred to Surgeon J.M. Leete, Med Dir, Army Wva who will make a personal examination of this officer and report, by order of Maj Genl Crook, Wm. McKinley Jr., Capt & A.A.A.G.

H.Q. Army WVA, Med Dir Office, near Cedar Creek, Va. 1 Nov 1864: Respectfully returned approved often having examined Major Simpson, James M. Leete, Surgeon U.S. Vols, Med Dir.
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Parkersburg, WVA, 15 Nov 1864: (TO) William McKinley, Capt & A.A.A.G. - Captain, I have the honor to request a renewal of my leave of absence which expires on the 24th of November 1864 for an additional 20 days. For reasons in Surgeons Certificate of disability. I am sir, Very Respectfully, Your Obedient Servant, James L. Simpson, Lt. Col., 11th Regt WVA Infty

Parkersburg, WVA, 15 Nov 1864: James L. Simpson, Lt. Col., 11th WVA etc.... having applied for a certificate upon which to base an application for the extension of his leave of absence. I certify that I have carefully examined said officer and find him suffering from Typho-Malarial Fever complicated with Chronic Diarrhea, characterized by painful acrid and extensive discharges producing great debility and confining him to his bed ever since his arrival home (Nov 5, 1864) and that in consequence thereof he is in my opinion unfit to perform the duties of a soldier. I further declare my belief that he will not be able to resume his duties in a less period than 20 days and that such leave of absence is absolutely necessary in order to save life. (signed) W.S. Welsh, Surgeon 15th Regt, WVA Vol. Infty.

Extended to Dec 14, 1864 - SU?, S.O. No. 221, __?__ Nov 25, 1864.
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1865

Field & Staff Muster Rolls: Jan & Feb: Major, Discharge by expiration of term of service.
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Individual Muster Out Roll, Deep Bottom, Va. 23 Jan 1865: Major, age 34 ?, muster out to date 23 Jan 64, last paid to 31 Aug 64, mustered out by reason of expiration of term under provisions of C.O. No. 75 War Dept 1864 pursuant to S.O. No. 21 dated H.Q. 24th A.C. 21 Jan 1865 - Enrolled as private in the 11th Regt WVA Inf Vols 10 Nov 1861, served as such until 22 Dec 1861 when promoted to Captain in same Regt, served as such until 26 Nov 1863 when promoted Major, This officer will receive no final payments until having satisfied the Pay Dept that he is not indebted to the U.S. on any account whatever.
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Field & Staff Muster Out Roll, Richmond, Va. 17 June 1865: Major, age 35, entered service as Captain and served as such to 26 Nov 1863 when he was promoted to Major and served as such to 23 Jan 1865 when he was mustered out of service - Not recognized as Lt. Col ....
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Returns 1865: Jan: Mustered out of service 23 Jan 65.
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Officers Casualty Sheet State of WVA: Jas L. Simpson, Lt. Col. 11th Regt Infty, Resigned 21 Jan 1865, expiration of term. No. & Source of the order accepting resignation: 21, 24th A.C.
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Discharge Certificate, 23 Jan 1865 (found in Pension files): James L. Simpson, Major 11th WVA Infty Vols, Enrolled as a Private 10 Nov 1861 to serve 3 years or during the War. Discharged from the service of the United States at Camp 24th Army Corps, Deep Bottom, Va. by reason of expiration of term of service, was born in Montgomery County, Va., 34 years old, 5’-11” tall, fair complexion, gray eyes, auburn hair, occupation when enrolled: Taylor - Given at Camp 24th Army Corps, Deep
Bottom, Va., 23 Jan 1865 - (signed) Jere Horton, 2nd Lt. 34th Mass Infty Vols & Asst Com. Of Musters, Indpt Div., 24th Army Corps.
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INFORMATION FROM PENSION RECORDS OBTAINED FROM THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES, WASHINGTON, DC. (Researched and compiled by James A. Libertini)
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1879

State of West Virginia, Wood County, 18 Nov. 1879: (Extract),Declaration for Original Invalid Pension - Declaration of James L. Simpson, resident of Parkersburg, W.Va. , age 48 - Was enrolled 10 Nov. 1861 in Company “C”, 11th W.Va. Vol. Infty commanded by Col. J.C. Rathbone, was honorably discharged at Bermuda Hundred as Major of same Regt by promotion and Deep Bottom 23 Jan 1865, age is now 48, description is 5’-11” tall, fair complexion, sandy (dark) hair, blue or gray eyes. While in service at Valley of Virginia on or about 1 Oct 1864 during General Sheridans Campaign, contracted Chronic Diarrhea from which he has never been free of since. Was treated by Surgeon of the Regt until about Oct 25 64 and was sent home on sick leave, Dr. Welsh was sent with him. His sick leave was extended to nearly 60 days, treated by Dr. Clammer ?, Asst Surgeon in charge Hospital this City, He then returned to the Regt and was discharged about Jan 23, 1865, a few days afterward. Never in service other than above, he first served as dispatch carrier without compensation nearly 3 months. Since leaving service resided in Parkersburg, W.Va., occupation has been Merchant/Tailor, was in good physical health prior to service, when enrolled occupation was Tailor. Now totally disabled from obtaining subsistence by manual labor. Appoints S.F. Shaw of Parkersburg, W.Va. his Attorney. He has not applied for or received a pension, his P.O. Address is Parkersburg, Wood County, W.Va.. (signed) James L. Simpson. (witnesses) J.L Buckley, Chas M. Ranch (Rauch ?) of Parkersburg, Certified by O.M. Clemens, Clerk Wood County Circuit Court. (stamped “Dept of the Interior, Pension Office Nov. 20 1879”)
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1881

Dept. of the Interior, Pension Office, 26 April 1881: Request to Adj. General for report of service & disability in case no. 331170 of James L. Simpson, Private Co. C, 11th W.VA. Vols. disabled by chronic diarrhea at valley of Virginia 1 Oct. 1864; discharged 23 Jan 1865 - please give full military history (signed) O.F.G. Clarke ? - Recvd A.G.O.S., 22 Nov. 1881 (Document stamped “U.S. Pension Office, Feb. 14, 1882”) ...............Reply dated: War Dept. Adj. Generals Office, Washington, 13 Feb. 1882: (To) Commissioner of Pensions- Reply to Pension Office request for information dtd 26 April 1881 in application for pension No. 331.170 of James L. Simpson who entered service of U.S. as Captain Co. C, 11th W.VA. Vols. 22 Dec. 1861:

Co. C Muster Rolls: Jan & Feb. (first on file): & subsequent rolls to Aug. 31/62 = Present... ..Was honorably discharged 9 Oct. 1862 upon tender of resignation. Re-entered service & mustered in as Captain same Regt 8 Dec. 1862. Subsequent rolls of Company C to 31 Oct. 1863 = Present Was mustered in as Major same Regt to date 26 Nov. 1863. Subsequent rolls of Field & Staff to 29 Feb. 64 = Present. To June 30/64 = Absent in command of detchmt of 11th W.VA. Infty. Roll for July & Aug. / 64 = Absent comdg Battn at New Creek, W.Va.. Sept. & Oct. 64 = Present. Nov. & Dec. 64 = Absent sick leave S.O. No. 210 Nov. 5, extended by S.O. No. 221 Nov. 25 and extended again 30 days 14 Dec. 64. Following is copy of Surgeons Certificate “ same information as given in record shown above dtd H.Q. 11th W.VA. Infty Medical Dept., Cedar Creek, Va. Oct. 28, 1864 “.......He was mustered out to take effect 23 Jan 1865 as Major on Individual Muster Out Roll. (signed) Winett Barber, Capt. 16th Infty, Actg. A.A. General.
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1882

State of W.Va., County of Wood, 19 Jan 1882: General Affidavit in matter of James L. Simpson (Lt. Col., not mustered), Major, 11th W.Va. Infty Vols. - Affidavit of J.E. Remley of Parkersburg, W.Va.; he is well acquainted with Major Simpson and has been for 23 years having lived in same block in Parkersburg for 20 years; knew him to be sound and healthy when he entered the Army in 1861; saw him whenever he came home from the Army until about Feb. or March 65 when returned mustered out. From Mar 65 for a year or more entirely unable to perform manual labor and then only light and moderate kind for several years; suffered from chronic diarrhea accompanied with pains through the loins and back; judged that he has been unable to perform labor for 1/2 the time from his muster out to this date; he has been confined to house frequently for several weeks at a time, even as late as 1881 down to present time; seen him every day with few exceptions since 1865 having been in the coal business and twice Mayor of Parkersburg and frequently in the City Council and am now Deputy U.S. Marshal -- His P.O. Address is Parkersburg, Wood County, W.VA. (signed) J.E. Remley (witness) . Clouston - Certified by O.M. Clemens, Clerk Wood County Circuit Court.
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State of W.VA., County of Wood, 25 Jan 1882: General Affidavit of Levi Campbell in matter of James L. Simpson, late Major of 11th W.VA. Infty - Was well acquainted with Major Simpson having known him for 20 years since Dec. 1861, having lived a close neighbor ever since and been intimately acquainted with him; Campbell served as Captain of Company D in same Regt; About Sept. or Oct. 1864 Major Simpson was seriously afflicted with chronic diarrhea and continued to be so until about Feb. of 1865; When Campbell mustered out of service lived as close neighbor to Simpson ever since; Knows from personal knowledge that Major Simpson has been continually afficted, more or less, from that time to the present; For the first year Simpson was unable to follow his occupation at all and for a number of years could not follow any regular business; Simpson has been sick from time to time ever since; whenever he perform active work it would recur; Campbell judged that he had lost 1/2 of his time since his muster out and at no time could perform hard active labor; --Campbells P.O. Address Parkersburg, Wood County, W.VA. (signed) Levi Campbell, late Capt. Co. D, 11th W.VA. - Certified by O.M. Clemens, Clerk wood Co. Circuit Court.
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1904

State of W.VA., Wood Co., 18 July 1904: Widows Application for Accrued Pension: Application of Mary Simpson, widow of Col. James L. Simpson, deceased, who died 28 June 1904 and who was granted pension by Certificate 218889 and paid by Pension Agent at Washington up to 4 June 1904. She married J.L. Simpson on 24 June 1851 at Fincastle, Va., maiden Nane was Mary J. Woods. Appoints Sidney T. Shaw of Parkersburg, W.VA. (no fee). Her residence is North Parkersburg, Saunders Ave, Wood County, W.VA.. (signed) Mary J. (her X mark) Simpson. (witnesses) Mrs. Nora Thompson (daughter of Mary Simpsons sister) and Mrs. Kate Organ (partly raised by Col. Simpson & wife) of Chillicothe, Ohio. They knew her as the widow of James L. Simpson who died 28 June 1904. (witness to all above) Alice E. Shaw. Certified by S.F. Shaw, Notary Public, Wood County, W.Va.. - Notation on Document: “No. interest in claim only as friends and make no charge for services. Mrs. Simpson is left with no children and no one to care for her” - (stamped “_?_ Div. July 29, 1904”)
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State of W.VA., County of Wood, 16 Aug. 1904: General Affidavit of G.B Gibbens, age 62 of Parkersburg, WVa. in claim of Mary J. Simpson 218889, wife and widow of Col. J.L. Simpson- Knew Col. Simpson most intimately during and since the war; family was very near neighbors to Gibbens father who was Mayor of this city; He frequently carried dispatches to and from him when he
(Gibbens) was an Independent Scout; Have been in close touch with Simpson and family up to his death; Mary J. Simpson and his wife at the time and has lived with him up to his death; quite sure neither was previously married; Gibbens was Postmaster of Parkersburg at this time. (signed) G.B. Gibbens - Certified by S.F. Shaw, Notary Public who stated he was Gibbens teacher in 1855 & 56. (Document stamped “U.S. Pension Office, Sept. 8, 1904”)
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State of W.VA., County of Wood, 19 Aug. 1904: General Affidavit of J.E. Remley, age 74 resident of Parkersburg, W.Va.., twice Mayor of that City in claim of Mary J. Simpson for accrued pension , widow of Lt. Col. J.L. Simpson- Has known wife of J.L. Simpson since 1859 when he lived at Reedy, Roane County, W.Va..; Simpson moved there from Botetourt County, Va.; The Simpsons and Remley moved to Parkersburg in 1861 and lived close neighbors for nearly 30 years until Simpson moved 2 miles from the city but had met them often almost every month since up to his death; Mary J. Simpson was with him all this time; Remley & has wife boarded with them in 1862; Simpsons lived most happily from 1859 to his death; Remley stated that he would have known through his intimate acquaintance with the Simpsons if they were previously married; Remley was election commissioner in Reedy Precinct in 1861 and Col. Simpson, his father and brother were the only 3 who voted against succession; Remley did not vote; Mary Simpson is left with no means. (signed) J.E. Remley - Certified by S.F. Shaw, Notary Public, Wood Co., W.Va..
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State of W.VA., County of Wood, ? Aug. 1904: General Affidavit of Mrs. E.F. Thompson of Chillicothe, Ross Co., Ohio, niece of Mrs. Simpson in claim of Mary J. Simpson for accrued pension , widow of Lt. Col. J.L. Simpson- Thompsons maiden name was Lenore Boyere; her mothers maiden name was Catherine Wood, sister of Mary J. Simpson; Thompsons mother died when she was 10 and she was raised by her aunt Mary Simpson until she was married; neither her aunt nor uncle were previously married and her aunt live with her husband J.L. Simpson until his death; Mrs Thompson was born in Botetourt County, Va. and came to Parkersburg at age 10; J.L. Simpson died 27 June 1904; she arrived the next day and is still caring for her aunt who is very feeble and confined to her bed nearly 2 weeks; her aunt is entirely out of means. (signed) Mrs. E.F. Thompson (Document stamped “U.S. Pension Office, Sept. 9, 1904” and again stamped “South Div. Sept. 12, 1904 Received”)
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State of W.VA., Co. of Wood, 25 Nov. 1904: Declaration for Original Pension of a Widow - Child or Children Under 16 Years Surviving Act of July 14, 1862 and Supplemental Acts Amendatory Thereof: Mary Jane Simpson, age 77, Resident of Parkersburg, Wood Co., W.Va.. No. 2133 1/2 Murdock Ave; widow of Jas L. Simpson, Major who served from Dec. 1861 as a Captain and Major in the 11th W.Va.. Infty and who died of heart failure and chronic diarrhea on 28 June 1904 at Parkersburg, W.Va..; she was married under name of Mary Jane Woods to James L. Simpson on 24 June 1851 by “see marriage certificate in Pension Office” at Fincastle, Botetourt Co., Va.; she has not remarried since soldiers death; had no children under 16 at soldiers death; she has never applied for pension before; appoints S. F. Shaw of 505, 13th Street, Parkersburg her Atty; (signed) Mary Jane her X mark Simpson (witness) Dora E. Watson & Leanora Thompson of Parkersburg. “Document was not certified or signed by any official” (Document stamped “Record Div Nov. 30, 1904” &. “US Pension Office, Nov. 29, 1904” & again stamped “Internal Bureau of Pensions, Record Div., Dec. 1-04”
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State of W.VA., County of Wood, 7 Dec. 1904: Declaration for Original Pension of a Widow - Child or Children Under 16 Years Surviving Act of July 14, 1862 and Supplemental Acts Amendatory Thereof: “ all same as declaration above dated 25 Nov. 1904 except as follows:”
Address 2415 1/2 Murdock Ave; J.L. Simpson served as Capt. & Major Oct. 28, 1863.; Applied for no pension except accrued; witness Bertha L Lowther; witness Merkle A. Thompson and Leonora
Thompson of Chillicothe, Ross Co., Ohio; certified by G.N. Taggart, Notary Pubic; Document stamps not legible to read clearly but are dated Dec.
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1905

Death Certificate, Wood County, W.Va.. 21 Jan 1905: J.L. Simpson died in Wood County, W.Va. 28 June 1904 - Certified by W.E. Stout, Clerk of County Court, Parkersburg, W.VA. 21 Jan 1905.
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U.S. Pension Agency, Washington, D.C., 19 June 1905: Pensioner dropped, Certificate No. 588245, widow, Mary J. Simpson, soldier James L. Simpson, Major 11th W.Va.. Vol. Infty; Pensioner Mary J. Simpson was never paid on original issue has been dropped because of death, reimbursement claim having been filed, fee order is included herewith. (signed) “illegible” (Document stamped “Finance Division, Bureau of Pensions, June 21, 1905”)

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