The Union Drill Club first met on April 22, 1861 in the Armory of the Salem Mechanic Light Infantry on Central Street in Salem, Massachusetts. The club was organized initially as a civil organization to support the Union cause but in May 1861 the members effectively changed the organization to have a military purpose. George M. Whipple was elected as Captain and Joseph H. Webb was elected First Lieutenant. The members adopted the Zouave jacket as a part of their uniform. In September 1861 the members voted to enlist with the Union, provided they received the authority from the state to raise a company that reflected the current organization's members. Recruiting began and by October 18, 1861 the Union Drill Club members began training at Camp Schouler in Lynnfield, Massachusetts. The organization officially became Company F of the 23rd Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry.