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On June 14, 1775 the Continental Congress authorized the raising of the first troops for the Continental Army. Six companies of riflemen were required from Pennsylvania and from these companies came the First Pennsylvania Regiment of the Continental Line. During their existence the regiment participated in some major actions of the War for Independence such as the Battle of Long Island (rear guard for the evacuation), crossed the Delaware with Washington for the Battle of Trenton and were instrumental in the victory at the Battle of Princeton.
In 1975, Colonel Hand's First Pennsylvania Regiment re-formed to interpret that period from March 1776 to April 1777. Just as during the Revolutionary War, everything was brought from home. Very little was issued by the Continental Congress. Since we were from the frontier, the "rifle frock" was most commonly worn and not the blue regimental coat that many think of as being the standard Continental army clothing.
You will also notice that we have our wives and children with us. They were known as "Campfollowers" as they followed the camp and performed the cooking, sewing, laundering and other chores for the officers and soldiers. These campfollowers received half rations as long as their husband remained in the service of his country.
The First Pennsylvania Regiment is a living history organization and joins with other regiments and Brigade members to continually educate and demonstrate to the public in a Revolutionary War environment. During the encampments activities include living history programs, tactical and weapons demonstrations, music, camp life and much more. The public witnesses and, we hope, experiences life in the late 18th Century in all its aspects.
On February 21, 1776 while encamped in Cambridge, Massachusetts, George Washington had the following General Orders issued:
The General being anxious to have established Regiments, completed, with all possible expedition, desires the Colonels, and commanding Officers, forthwith to send an Officer from each incompleat Company, into the Country, upon the recruiting service; who are expressly forbid enlisting any Boys &endash; Old Men &endash; or Slaves: These Officers are also to use their best endeavour, to get what good Army they can &endash; The recruiting in Camp, is also to be continued.
Recruits would be welcomed to join the First Pennsylvania Regiment. Although we still do not accept boys or slaves, we will accept men of any age. New members are assisted in assembling the proper clothing and accoutrements.
If you would like to contact us please do so through the Brigade website and a member of the regiment will respond to your inquiry.