The Regiment was authorized on January 11, 1776 in the Virginia State Troops as the 9th Virginia Regiment. Organized on February 5- March 16, 1776 on the Eastern Shore to consist of 7 companies from Accomac, Northampton, Goochland, Albemarle, and Augusta Counties. Adopted on May 31, 1776 into the Continental Army and assigned to the Southern Department. Reorganized on June 8, 1776 to consist of 10 companies. It was assigned on May 22, 1777 to the 1st Virginia Brigade, an element of the Main Continental Army. Reduced on October 7, 1777 to a cadre in eastern Pennsylvania. Consolidated on May 12, 1779 with the 1st Virginia Regiment.