The 116th New York Infantry was organized at Camp Morgan in Buffalo, New York beginning July 14, 1862 and mustered in August 10 - September 3, 1862 for three-years service under the command of Colonel Edward Payson Chapin.

The regiment was attached to Emery's Brigade, VIII Corps, Baltimore, Maryland, Middle Department, to November 1862.

Emery's Brigade, Banks' Louisiana Expedition, to December 1862.

1st Brigade, 3rd Division, XIX Corps, Department of the Gulf, to February 1863.

1st Brigade, Dwight's 1st Division (Provisional), Army of the Shenandoah, to April 1865.

1st Brigade, Dwight's Division, Department of Washington, to June 1865.

Camp at Druid's Hill Park, Baltimore, until November 5, 1862.

Ordered to Join Banks' Expedition and embarked on the steamer Atlantic for Fort Monroe, Va., November 6.

Moved to Carrollton December 30, then to Baton Rouge, La., February 3, 1863.

Action at Kock's Plantation, Bayou LaFourche, July 12–13.

Monett's Ferry, Cane River Crossing, April 23.