Revolutionary War Pension Files Transcription Project

Volunteer as a Citizen Archivist and help uncover stories of the American Revolution told by the people who lived it.

The National Park Service and the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) are collaborating on a special project to transcribe the pension records of more than 80,000 of America’s first veterans and their widows. Not only could you be the first person in 200 years to learn their stories, but your efforts will make a permanent contribution to the historical record in time for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution! Register as a volunteer with the National Archives, and show your support for the National Park Service by adding "NPS" to the beginning of your username (NPSNatalieM).


Learn more about the project

Hand-colored lithograph of George Washington on a horse in front of a line of troops

Be a Citizen Archivist!

Make a permanent contribution to the historical record by helping to transcribe these pension files.

What are the Revolutionary War Pension Files and why are they important?

About Revolutionary War Pensions

Following the War of 1812, the US felt it was time to finally pay the national debt of gratitude due to its Revolutionary War veterans.

The silhouette of a cannon against the light blue sky with pink clouds

Connecting Parks to Pensions

Discover the pensions of soldiers who served at places now cared for by the National Park Service.

An illustrated family register of William Degroot

Transcription Tips and Guide

Discover what kinds of documents are contained in the Revolutionary War pension files

Painting depicting the Valley Forge encampment.

Using the NARA Catalog

Use tags to connect pension records to national parks.

Watercolor paintings of two Pennsylvania soldiers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Additional project details and FAQs.

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Learn more about the American Revolution

Learn more about the people, places, and stories of the American Revolution.