1840 Kentucky Federal Census - List of Pensioners: Revolutionary War, War of 1812, Indian Wars

The 1840 United States Census was unique from any other census of the 18th or 19th centuries. One column contained information about pensioners for Revolutionary or military services. Most particularly, these were soldiers of the Revolutionary War! Of the 907 individuals in the 1840 Kentucky Census listed in that column, 780, or 86% were Revolutionary pensioners. I think it amazing that that many soldiers who fought 50 to 60 years ago were still alive! These were hardy individuals. Not only did they bring their families from Virginia and other of the original colonies to Kentucky but braved the Indian fighting when they first arrived. Everything we read says death was waiting during these early years. But of those 780 soldiers, 74%, or 575, were heads of the household. Many lived by themselves. Ages range from 75-109 in the 1840 census!69 individuals, or 7%, fought in the Northwest Indian Wars from 1785-1794 – men too young to serve in the Revolution. This was a brutal time in our history where much blood was spilled on both sides.28 soldiers, or 3%, fought in the Barbary Wars of 1801-1805, located in Tripoli. President Thomas Jefferson sent a United States Navy fleet to the Mediterranean to control the Barbary pirates who were raiding our ships in the area. President Jefferson refused to pay tribute for safe passage and extracted concessions of safe conduct in the area.23 individuals or 2.5%, fought in the War of 1812 and the war with Tecumseh 1810-1815. These were much younger men – 40- to 50-year olds - in 1840.The above is suggested from the birth year of the soldier and his age of 18 at the time of service. Some services may overlap. If the soldier was deceased but his wife received his pension and she is listed.There are more soldiers listed from Mercer County than any other – 39. Madison County comes in second with 34. Henry County had 32. Read more