Town Meeting War Outset

Excerpts from Wayland in the Civil War, Memorial:

In April 1861 a rally (gathering) was held at the Unitarian Church to respond to the beginning of the war.

“The earliest action of the people of Wayland after the outbreak of hostilities at the South is found in one of the largest meetings ever held in its precincts. It was called ... ‘to consider the state of the country, and (to discuss what should be done),

The meeting was held April 22 1861 at the Unitarian church; and (lasted) for two evenings. It drew forth the most patriotic expressions in addresses from the chief citizens of the town.

Committees were chosen to (help form) military companies to be drilled and made ready for any emergency.”

Bounties or monies were offered as enticements:

Charles Campbell’s mother-in-law offered $5.00 to the first 5 volunteers;

William Heard II offered $5.00 to the next 5;

William Grout offered $5.00 to the next 5;

Mr. Shorey offered $6.00 to all 19 needed

In July of 1862 this call for volunteers is documented. From Frank Winthrop Draper’s biography

“Meantime the war-fever ran high, and amounted almost to an epidemic, throughout the country. Young men were everywhere volunteering, and old men were cheering them on. The enthusiasm was almost indescribable. War-meetings were held everywhere, and towns competed with each other in filling their quotas. (Monies) were offered, and a system (began) which afterwards produced many evils.

The quota of Wayland for the President’s call ... in July, 1862, was nineteen. Nineteen of the young men of the town were to step forward, and be men, or their native place was to be dishonored by (being forced to send men to serve). The question needed no discussion. Charles H. Campbell, with a heart brimful of patriotism, exhibited a manhood worthy of (copying). Love of country and the principles which cluster around our republicanism, overcame his love for (anything) else; and, abandoning his dearest interests at home, he challenged the young men to follow him; and half a score ( score = 20) presented themselves at once amid the cheers of the citizens there assembled.

As new quotas were required and fewer men were available, the need to seek men from outside the town and even outside the country became necessary. See Wayland Statistics for numbers of men who represented Wayland during the end of the war, and their bounties..