The 5th Pennsylvania Regiment is a 501C3 non-profit organization, donations are welcome.

Welcome fellow patriot and student of history!

The members of the 5th PA Regiment are a group of volunteers dedicated to portraying the men and women who fought and suffered for our Independence.

The 5th Pennsylvania Regiment was a locally formed Regiment of Chester & Bucks county men. Originally formed by “Mad” Anthony Wayne in 1775 as the 4th Pennsylvania Battalion, it was reorganized as the 5th PA Regiment under Col. Francis Johnston. Our unit consists of 2 Companies, a Light Infantry and a Rifle Company, as they appeared during the Philadelphia campaign.

What we do:

Our members work to educate the public about the life of the colonial soldier, and to honor the sacrifices made during the darkest hours of the American War for Independence. To that end, we have recreated, as accurately as our research has allowed, the 5th PA Regiment. We portray the military life and customs of the American soldier and camp follower during the period in all of its aspects, allowing the public to understand the hardships and lifestyles of the men and women who fought for America’s Independence. Throughout the year, we spend select weekends together with other recreated regiments to present “living history” demonstrations of military drilling, battles and camp life throughout the U.S. and Canada. We also visit schools and interested civic groups, participate in parades and ceremonial events. 

How to get started:

When possible, we try to field new members immediately. You would be supplied with Regiment-owned “loaner” equipment and clothing and given proper instruction on drill maneuvers. Members should begin to assemble their own accouterments over the course of a year or two. We all try to make everything we can, but most items can be purchased from approved artisans and sutlers. Although new historical research comes to light now and again, our uniforms and equipment are the product of years of research and we take pride in their accuracy. We use authentic materials when possible, as well as period correct methods of tailoring and construction. The members of our regiment are always available to lend a helping hand in developing your 18th century clothing and persona.

Who can join:

There are no requirements to join the 5th PA Regiment, however a person must be at least 16 years of age to take the field as a soldier under arms. You will need need to be of suitable health to spend weekends outdoors. New recruits wishing to portray Regimental Drummers and Fifers may take the field at 12 years of age. The armies of the times had a large number of women and children attached to them. This group of people is generally know as ‘camp followers.’ As the regiments moved from camp to camp during the war, family members earned extra money by washing, mending, and cleaning clothing as well as selling food and spirits near the camps. “Living History” is definitely a family oriented hobby. Spouses, children and significant others are encouraged to take part by representing their 18th century counterparts. Clothing, accouterments and patterns for civilians, which observe the same standards as the soldiers’, are available through the same approved sutlers that supply military equipment. 

For those eager to join, here is the link to our ‘Recruiting’ page