The Hussars were part of a volunteer force commanded by Colonel Alexander R. Lawton that took Fort Pulaski under orders from Georgia Governor Joseph E. Brown.

At the end of August 1863, the Hussars were sent to South Carolina as part of the 5th Georgia Cavalry and assigned to the overall command of General P. G. T. Beauregard.

They participated in the battle for that city and in the greater Atlanta Campaign, where they lost many men.

They saw combat in several major subsequent actions, including Kennesaw Mountain, Buckhead, Big Shanty, Chattahoochee River, and Decatur.

While the military existence of the Hussars was suspended until May 23, 1872, most members of the unit formed a civilian organization called the 'Savannah Sabre Club'.

This quasi-military civic organization held parades, marksmanship competitions, and social events until they were able to resume military service.

[2] Upon the resumption of military service in 1872 the members of the Sabre Club were absorbed back into the Georgia Hussars.