[1][2] It was formed in Jacksonville in July 1861, and comprised men from multiple counties, including St. John, Marion, Gadsden, Madison,[3] and Sumter.

[4] The regiment's commanders and staff were Colonel John Caraway Smith, Lt.

[5][1] Its best known company commander was arguably Captain John J. Dickinson, the "Swamp Fox" of Florida.

[2][6][7] The unit was organized with 1,190 men in the late spring of 1862.

[8] The regiment fought in battles such as Olustee, Gainesville, Braddock's Farm, and Natural Bridge.