Continued threatenings of raids by rebel refugees in Canada, together with an outspoken unnatural sympathy existing among the people on the Canadian border in their behalf, produced at times much uneasiness as to the cities along the American lines. The subject was referred to General Hooker, then in command of the military department with headquarters at Detroit.

The authority was granted by the Adjutant General to Governor Blair to raise a regiment for twelve months or less and this regiment was raised and mustered into service January 9, 1865 with one thousand officers and men.

The different companies were stationed at different points along the Detroit river and also the St. Clair, and in other parts of the state.

The command continued in service until June 30^th when it was mustered out of service.