The Regiment was authorized on December 28, 1775 in the Continental Army as the 4th Virginia Regiment. It was assigned on February 27, 1776 to the Southern Department. Organized on February 28, 1776 at Suffolk Court House to consist of 10 companies from Berkley, Charlotte, Prince Edward, Sussex, Southampton, Nansemond, Brunswick, Isle of Wight, Surry and Princess Anne Counties. 4th Virginia Brigade redesignated 22 July 22, 1778 as the 3rd Virginia Brigade. Reorganized on November 1, 1777 to consist of 8 companies. Consolidated on May 12, 1779 with the 8th Virginia Regiment and redesignated as the 4th Virginia Regiment, to consist of 9 companies; concurrently relieved from the 3d Virginia Brigade and assigned to the 2nd Virginia Brigade, an element of the Main Continental Army. Captured on May 12, 1780 by the British Army at Charleston, South Carolina. Disbanded on January 1, 1783.