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.