Soldier’s Aid Society

The ladies of Wayland were involved in the war effort as well. From the 1878 publication of the 50th celebration of founding of the Congregational Church read by Rev. Alfred Sereno Hudson (courtesy Wayland Historical Society):

“In those dark days, the sisters of this church also, in connection with other patriotic women in Wayland, were active with ready sympathies and willing hands...showing their interest in the nation’s honor.”

Excerpted from Wayland in the Civil War:

“The ladies of Wayland met early in May, 1861, and organized (the Soldiers’ Aid Society) ‘to (show) sympathy with those who are engaged in the service of our country, and to aid them.

This society continued active during the war; holding meetings for work once a month and at times much more often...

Among the articles made (by the society)...and forwarded for the use of the army...were 14 blankets, 53 bed quilts, 88 bed sacks, 79 sheets, 37 pillows, 30 pillow cases, 455 handkerchiefs, 109 shirts, 44 pairs of trousers, 78 pairs of mittens, 110 pairs of slippers, 2 dressing gowns, and 79 towels.

Lint, bandages, linen and cotton pieces, were furnished in unknown quantities; also blackberry and currant wines, jellies, preserves, and other similar articles for the sick.”

Lydia Maria Child was among the Wayland women who contributed efforts in this Society.