The Commander-in-Chief's Guard: Revolutionary War History and Service Records
This comprehensive military history book documents the Continental Army unit that served as General George Washington's personal protection throughout the American Revolutionary War. Written by Carlos E. Godfrey and published by Janaway Publishing, this 344-page volume provides detailed historical documentation of the Guard from its formation in 1776 through its disbandment in 1783.
Unit History and Formation
The Commander-in-Chief's Guard was established by General Order on March 11, 1776, with strict selection criteria requiring men who were "sober, intelligent, and reliable." Four soldiers were chosen from each Continental Army regiment present, creating an elite protection unit that accompanied Washington through every major battle of the war. The Guard maintained a standard strength of 180 men, though this number increased to 250 during the winter of 1779-80 when the army encamped at Morristown, New Jersey, in dangerous proximity to British forces.
Comprehensive Service Records
The book is structured in two primary sections. The first section chronicles the complete operational history of the Guard, detailing their movements, engagements, and role in protecting the Continental Army's leadership. The second section provides individual service records for the men who served, including enlistment information, military assignments, rank progressions, and other vital genealogical data valuable for researchers and descendants.
Book Specifications
This 2014 reprint of the original 1904 publication includes illustrations, bibliography, and extensive endnotes for historical verification. The paperback format contains 344 pages of meticulously researched military documentation, making it an essential reference for Revolutionary War historians, military researchers, and genealogists tracing Continental Army ancestors.
Research and Reference Value
This volume serves as a primary source for understanding the organizational structure and personnel of Washington's personal guard unit. The detailed service records make it particularly valuable for genealogical research, allowing families to trace their Revolutionary War ancestry through documented enlistment records and military service details. Military historians will find the operational history essential for understanding Continental Army security protocols and elite unit operations during the 1776-1783 period.
