I recently got a look at the 1880 U.S. Census for Springfield, Ma., as well as, some additional Vital Records for Hampden County. Here are some additional observations and 'facts':

"J.S.A.'s" full name was Joseph Sumner Adams. He is listed as Joseph S. Adams in the 1860 (Saco, Maine) and 1880 & 1930 (Springfield, Ma.) U.S. Censuses.

He appears to have registered for the CW Draft, prior to July 1, 1863, at Saco, Maine, as "Adams, Sumner J., age 25, Machinist, single". (Either, there is an error about his being 'Single', or I have the wrong man).

A marriage is recorded, 29 September, 1862, between Jos. Sumner Adams and Sarah P. Rumery at Saco, York County, Maine. (Later records indicate Sumner was almost age 24 and Sarah was age 19 on their wedding date).

Sumner and Sarah had a total of five children. The first two died in Springfield of Scarlett Fever: The only son, John Sumner Adams, died June 17, 1867, (age 3 yrs. & 11 Mo.). The first daughter, Etta Belle Adams, died June, 22, 1867, (age 2 yrs.).

Three other daughters, Allice "Gertrude" (born February, 1868), Martha Rumery (born June, 1870), and Bessie Louise (born August, 1874), survived childhood and were still alive in 1940.

J. Sumner Adams and Sarah P. were married for 68 years and lived at #99 Bay St. (Springfield, Ma.) for at least 50 years.

Joseph Sumner Adams died in August, 1931, age 92 years & 10 months (A preponderance of records indicate he was born in 1838, although the 1900 Census gives 'Oct. 1836' as DOB).

Sarah P. (Rumery) Adams died in October 1934, age 91 years & 6 months. (She was born in April, 1843).

Records indicate they are both buried at the Springfield Cemetery.

It's possible he registered for the draft as single for personal reasons unknown to anyone.  Very interesting reading though!  I wonder what kind of man he was... kind and gentle or mean and crotchety?

I agree.  He looks like a charming man.  I imagine he was a loving husband and father who lived a life worth living!  We should all be so fortunate...