The Regiment was authorized on January 30, 1776 in the continental Army as Capt. John Nelson's Independent Rifle Company and assigned to the Canadian Department. Organized between February 7- March 17, 1776 at Reading, Pennsylvania, with personnel from Berks County. Relieved on July 2, 1776 from the Canadian Department and assigned to the Northern Department. Relieved on February 20, 1777 from the Northern Department and assigned to the Main Continental Army. Consolidated on March 24, 1777 with the 5th Pennsylvania Regiment.