"The objective of this study is to examine, in detail, the role of a mid-sized New England town, Woburn, Massachusetts, in the Civil War. Drawing upon a wide variety of sources such as newspaper, letters, census data, regimental histories, and numerous other primary and secondary sources, the narrative will describe life as it existed in the town during the period, as well as the major contributions and experiences of its people on the home front and at the seat of war. In presenting a broad perspective of the Civil War experience of the town, the context from which the soldiers and sailors emerged and their relationship with the civilian populace will be delineated" -- Introduction, page xi.