The Regiment was authorized on May 6, 1775 in the Rhode Island Army of Observation as Church's Regiment. Organized on May 8, 1775 to consist of 7 companies from Newport and Bristol Counties. Adopted on June 14, 1775 into the Continental Army. Reorganized on June 28, 1775 to consist of 10 companies. It was assigned on July 22, 1775 to Greene's Brigade, an element of the Main Continental Army. Disbanded on December 31, 1775 at Roxbury, Massachusetts.