The National Lancers have a long and distinguished history as a volunteer troop
of Militia cavalry. The Lancers were organized on 31 October 1836 at the request of Gov. Edward Everett. While the ostensible reason to
organize the National Lancers was as the governors mounted ceremonial escort, the Lancers were also charged with enforcing the law and
defending the Commonwealth from invasion and insurrection. The units designation reflects its organization as light cavalry equipped and
uniformed similarly to British and Polish lancers.
With over 175 years of service, the National Lancers of today hold the same
values of its founders and continues its traditions. The Lancers have fought in two wars and carry 17 campaign streamers on its colors
which attest to the duty, courage and honor of the units forbears. These ideals have been woven into the modern-day Lancer.
The Lancers are based at Camp DiCarlo, Framingham, Mass. where they maintain an
active training schedule. The Lancers participate in dozens of parades, ceremonies and honor guard details every year.
