The Regiment was authorized on January 22, 1777 in the Continental Army as Capt. Samuel Morehead's Independent Company, an element of the Middle Department. Organized in spring 1777 at Kittanning to consist of 8 companies from Westmoreland County. Relieved on April 9, 1777 from the Middle Department and assigned to the Western Department. Consolidated on July 1, 1778 with the 8th Pennsylvania Regiment.