[1][2] The 8th (the ist German Rifles) was recruited in New York City, there mustered into federal service on April 2Zy 1861, for two years, and left for Washington on May 27 under the command of Col. Louis Blenker.

At Miller's Farm the troops encamped and on July 10 were ordered to move toward Manassas as part of the 2nd brigade, 4th division of the Army of the Potomac.

[3][4][5] At the beginning of the battle, Varian's New York Battery under the regiment were only one of two 3-month service volunteer units to refuse participation and walk away from the battlefield.

The following winter it was quartered at Roach's Mills and Hunter's Chapel, VA, moved to Winchester in March, 1862, and in May joined Maj. Gen. Fremont at Petersburg.

In September, it became a part of XI Corps and reached Fredericksburg immediately after the battle; camped during the winter at Stafford Court House and Brooks' station, and was mustered out of the service at the latter place on April 23, 1863.