This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: Atreegrowsinbrooklyn Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.newyork.counties.westchester/7224.1/mb.ashx Message Board Post: Since the date of the affidavit is 1877, it may have something to do with her trying to collect a widow's pension if her husband served in the Civil War. There were a number of German speaking units, if I recall correctly, that were a part of the regular army. If you are aware of the date of his birth, whether he was a Civil War veteran etc. that may be the reason she did this. By naming her son and where he was baptized etc., he may be part of the pension 'proof' required or he might be a minor. Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.