12th Massachusetts Infantry

The 12th Massachusetts Infantry was known as the “Webster Regiment.” It was named for Fletcher Webster, the first commander of the regiment.  Fletcher Webster was a son of Daniel Webster, the famous American statesman.

Raised from the counties of Essex, Norfolk, Plymouth, and Suffolk, the 12th had 300 men in it at Gettysburg and was commanded by Col. James L. Bates (1820-1875).  When Bates fell wounded on July 1 in action on Oak Ridge, Lt. Col. David Allen, Jr. took command.  Allen (1829-1864) was a carpenter in Gloucester; he survived Gettysburg by less than a year; he was killed in action at the Wilderness.

Like the 7th New Jersey, the 12th Massachusetts monument is shaped like a minie ball.  The minie ball shape is wrapped with a carved American flag.  A medallion likeness of Daniel Webster — for whom the regiment took its nickname — appears on the front of the monument.  A carved cartridge box and bayonet scabbard appear on the monument’s base.  The monument was dedicated on October 8, 1885 and cost $500.00.

12th Massachusetts “Webster Regiment”

Members of the 1st Corps, 2nd Division, 2nd Brigade

Commanded by:  Col. James L. Bates (1820-1875)

Engaged: 301; 5 killed, 52 wounded, 62 missing

Monument: Oak Ridge, Doubleday Avenue.  Markers located on Hancock Avenue and at Ziegler’s Grove.

Tags: Gettysburg, I Corps, massachusetts, Monument Project, oak ridge