War governor of
Massachusetts: was born in
Windham, Me., May 31, 1818: was graduated at Bowdoin College in 1837, and became conspicuous as an anti-slavery advocate.
He was chosen governor of
Massachusetts, in 1860, by the largest popular vote ever cast for any candidate for that office.
Foreseeing a conflict with the
Confederates, he took means to make the
State militia efficient; and, within a week after the
President's call for troops, he sent five regiments of infantry, a battalion of riflemen, and a battery of artillery to the assistance of the government.
He was active in raising troops during the war and providing for their comfort.
An eloquent orator, his voice was very efficacious.
He was reelected in 1862, and declined to be a candidate in 1864.
He died in
Boston, Mass., Oct. 30, 1867.