When American Politics turned increasingly violent in 1856, 63 men signed a charter forming a Military Organization with a goal of Military Preparedness to defend the city, state, or nation from rebellion.
The Militia Company would be called the National Blues. The goal of Military Preparedness would be achieved through Proficient Drill. The Men were volunteers. There was no pay. The organization would become a social organization for the men.
While drilling regularly, the National Blues chose 4 Parades to March in. January 8 - a National Holiday Marking Andrew Jackson's Victory at the Battle of New Orleans, George Washington's Birthday, The Fourth of July, and The St. Patrick's Day Parade.
The Uniform consisted of a Black Frock Coat, White Trousers a Glazed or Blue Cap.
The Charter of the National Blues led to the formation of several other local Companies. By the time the Civil War started there were 4 Organized Companies of Well Drilled men in Peoria. The National Blues, the Peoria Guards, the Emmett Guards, and the Peoria Rifles. In the towns and Cities surrounding Peoria, many other Companies were formed. The Scandinavian Rifles, the Washington Guards, Pekin Invincibles, Mason Regulators, and many others
The National Blues supplied 57 Field and Line Officers to the Union Army when the Civil War broke out. It was said that nearly every man in the Blues was capable of taking charge of a company.
The National Blues served with the following regiments:
8th Missouri Infantry
Chicago Mercantile Battery
85th Illinois Infantry
17th Illinois Infantry
47th Illinois Infantry
11th Illinois Cavalry
139 Illinois Infantry
8th Illinois Infantry
77th Illinois Infantry
6th Illinois Cavalry
67th Illinois Infantry
After the War the National Blues Organization remained a company and was part of a Regiment in the Illinois National Guard.
