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[72] assistance to the families of the inhabitants of the town who had entered, or might afterwards enter, the military service of the United States to fight against the Rebellion. 1862. July 21st, The selectmen were authorized to pay a bounty of one hundred and twenty-five dollars to each volunteer who should enlist for three years, and be mustered into the military service, and be credited to the quota of Egremont. To which was added whatever bounty allowed by the Government. The treasurer was authorized to borrow money to pay said bounty. Nine persons immediately enlisted. Another meeting was held on the 28th of August, at which it was voted to pay a bounty of one hundred dollars to each volunteer for nine months service, to fill the quota of the town. Seventeen men immediately stepped forward in the meeting, and signed the enlistment-rolls. An adjourned meeting was held on the 16th of September, when six more men signed the enlistment-rolls. During these two meetings, many gifts and premiums were offered by citizens to encourage recruiting, such as watches, money, and other valuables, ‘for the next volunteer.’ October 13th, It was resolved, ‘that the town indemnify, and save harmless, the selectmen and town-treasurer from all suits, actions, claims, costs, charges, and expenses arising, or which may arise, against each or all of them, by reason of any thing done by them in the discharge of their duties as officers of said town in aiding to subdue the Rebellion.’ This resolution was unanimously adopted, and eight more names were added to the enrolment-list. During the years 1864 and 1865, several meetings were held, to devise ways and means by which to recruit volunteers, pay bounties, and keep the quota of the town filled. The selectmen were given full power to recruit, and the treasurer was authorized to borrow whatever money was required to pay bounties and State aid to the soldiers' families. Egremont reported in 1866 to have furnished ninety-three men for the war; most probably about one hundred and thirty, as it had a surplus of six over and above all demands at the end of the war. Three were commissioned officers. The whole amount of money appropriated and expended by the town on
1871. E. P. DUtton and Co. Boston,.
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