From November 20–29, 1861, the detachment under Second Lt. C. R. Wellman was stationed at Camp Wright, and pursued and captured Dan Showalter's party west of the San Jose Valley and Warner's Ranch.

The five original companies were mustered out August 31, 1864, when the terms of service of most of the men expired.

The 1st California Cavalry Regiment spent its entire term of service in the western United States in California, New Mexico Territory (and Arizona Territory once it was organized), and Texas.

[1] The regiment has one national flag and two company guidons on display in the state capitol.

[4] During the war Lieutenant Merriam of Company L captured a Confederate flag that was hanging in a church window in San Joaquin County.