William Schouler, A history of Massachusetts in the Civil War: Volume 1

At the beginning of the war, a memorial was addressed to the Governor, signed by Drs. James Jackson, George Hayward, and S. D. Townsend, asking that none but well-qualified and competent surgeons should receive medical appointments. The memorial was favorably regarded by the Governor; and he appointed Drs. Hayward, Townsend, John Ware, Samuel G. Howe, J. Mason Warren, S. Cabot, Jr., R. M. Hodges, George H. Lyman, and William J. Dale, as a medical commission. Drs. George H. Gay, Samuel L. Abbott, John C. Dalton, and R. W. Hooper were subsequently appointed to fill vacancies caused by death or resignation. This board was charged with the responsibility of examining candidates for the medical staff, and also acted as a board of consultation in sanitary matters, when called upon by the Surgeon-General. Their valuable services were in constant requisition during the war; and, being composed of men distinguished and humane, their opinions had great weight. Their services were entirely voluntary, and continued during the war.

The Surgeon-General established hospitals, received and cared for the sick and wounded who returned; and his labors in the reception and care of these men continued until the establishment of general hospitals by the Government, and were exceedingly laborious, and of great usefulness.