The 187th New York Infantry was organized beginning September 1, 1864 at Buffalo, New York and mustered in October 8–13, 1864 for one-year service under the command of Colonel William F. Berens.
Only nine companies were filled and served under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Myers.
The regiment was attached to 2nd Brigade, 1st Division, V Corps, Army of the Potomac, to July 1865.
The 187th New York Infantry mustered out of service July 1, 1865.
Boydton Plank Road, Hatcher's Run, October 27–28, 1864.