History Twelfth Massachusetts Volunteers Massachusetts - Webster Regiment #266098

At the annual re-union of the survivors of the Twelfth (Webster) Regiment in August, 1879, it was voted to have a full and complete history of the regiment written. To that end an Historical Committee was chosen, consisting of five members of the Association; and the duty of selecting an historian was delegated to it. Subsequently the committee made choice of the undersigned. For the honor conferred upon me I heartily thank my comrades, although I think that their choice might have been better placed. There are many in the regiment more competent to perform the duty than myself; yet I can say, however, that I believe there is no one more earnestly desirous that the story of the great trials, hardships, and almost unexampled heroism of those three eventful years from 1861 to '64 shall be told to the public of to-day and succeeding generations. Neither is there one more anxious that justice be done to each and every member of the regiment.<br><br>In commencing my work, I issued a circular, asking the assistance of comrades, and also calling for diaries, memoranda, and material of any kind, from which to construct my story. To all who responded to these circulars, or who have in any manner rendered me assistance, I take this opportunity to express my hearty thanks.