NGP History Project

Today’s NGP history comes from the May 18, 1883, Evening Gazette of Pittston, Pennsylvania.

In the early years of the National Guard of Pennsylvania, periodic reorganizations brought companies together into larger, more cohesive formations. Some units chose not to participate for various reasons and continued operating as independent militia companies without state funding or support.

The McClellan Rifles were one of these companies. Formed in 1866, the unit eventually dropped from the NGP rolls and functioned more as a fraternal organization or club. In 1883, the company requested permission to return to the NGP. The request was approved May 15 under Special Orders No. 231, which authorized the unit to recruit to state strength and hold officer elections in accordance with Pennsylvania’s militia laws.

On May 17, Col. Reynolds, commander of the 9th Regiment, set the muster date. At 8 p.m. May 28, 1883, the McClellan Rifles were mustered in as Company H, 9th Regiment, National Guard of Pennsylvania.

The weather is shaping up for a great day today!

Come visit the Pennsylvania Military Museum and 28th Infantry Division Shrine to learn more about the 28th from its early beginnings, to the units that Pennsylvania men and women serve in today.