The Hampton Legion Infantry was formed in 1861 by Col. Wade Hampton.  The Legion Infantry, along with the Artillery and Cavalry, joined the Confederate States Army.  There were six Infantry companies at the formation:  Co. A, Washington Light Infantry Volunteers; Co. B, Watson Guard; Co. C, Manning Guards; Co. D, Gist Rifles; Co. E, Bozeman Guards;  Co. F, Davis Guards.  In the latter part of 1861 and early part of 1862, five more Infantry companies were added.  They were as follows: Co. G, Claremont Rifles; Co. H (1st), German Volunteers; Co. H (2nd), South Carolina Zouave Volunteers; Co. I, Capt. D.L. Halls Company;  Co. K, Capt. John H. Bowens Company.  Shortly after joining the Army, the Legion was split.  The Infantry was placed under General John Bell Hood.  The Infantry would eventually be placed under several different commands throughout the remainder of the war. The Legion Infantry would go on to fight in major engagements such as: First and Second Manassas, The Peninsular Campaign, The Seven Days Battle, Sharpsburg, The Tennessee Campaign, The Battle of the Wilderness, The Siege of Petersburg, and Appomattox.  The Infantry also fought in smaller battles.  In 1864, General Lee requested that The Legion Infantry secure mounts for themselves.  General Mart Gary of The Legion was in command.  The Infantry was called the Mounted Rifles.  They were the rear guard for the Army of Northern Virginia as they fell back to try and connect with General Johnston and The Army of the Tennessee.  At the request of President Jefferson Davis, The Hampton Legion Infantry did not participate in the battles at Gettysburg; they were left to guard Richmond in case it was attacked while the main body of the army was away. 

     The Hampton Legion Infantry in South Carolina is actively seeking recruits to join us in honoring our ancestors.  We are looking for men and family members for soldier and civilian impressions.  Our organization is family oriented.  We invite you to come join with us if you are a history enthusiast wanting to have fun portraying The War Between The States time period.  Absolutely NO POLITICS! 

For more information, please contact 1st Lt Kevin Rorer at 803-522-2782.