[301] 1861. The first legal town-meeting, to act upon matters connected with the war, was held on the 1st of May; at which the following preamble and resolution were offered by Hon. John Wells, and adopted:—
Whereas the Government of the United States is now engaged in a struggle for the maintenance of the Constitution and laws, and whereas the continuance and preservation of our free institutions and the liberties of the people are involved in the contest; therefore— Resolved, That it is the duty of every town to contribute, to the extent of its means, to the promotion of the common cause of sustaining the Government in this crisis of its peril.June 17th, Three thousand dollars were appropriated, to be expended under the direction of the selectmen, for State aid to the families of volunteers, as provided by law. 1862. August 22d, The bounty to each volunteer for nine months service, who should enlist and be credited to the quota of the town, was fixed at one hundred dollars; and twelve thousand dollars were appropriated to pay the same, and for incidental expenses in recruiting the men. The treasurer was authorized to borrow the money. It was also—
Voted, That the selectmen be requested to appoint some suitable agent in behalf of the town, to look after the welfare of those who have gone or may go to the war from Chicopee, to promote their comfort when sick or wounded, to aid them in returning home when disabled, to communicate from time to time with their friends and the town authorities information respecting them, and the casualties which befall them, and that the expenses attending such agency be borne by the town.1863. No action appears to have been necessary on the part of the town to fill its quotas and provide for the comfort of the families of volunteers during this year. 1864. August 2d, Voted, to pay a bounty of one hundred and twenty-five dollars to each volunteer who shall enlist in the military service for three years, and be credited to the quota of the town; and money was appropriated to pay the same. A vote identical with this was passed on the 26th of December.
