Originally organized as the 1st Kentucky Volunteer Infantry Regiment, but subsequently renamed as the 3rd Kentucky Volunteer Infantry Regiment. Organized at Camp Dick Robinson in Garrard County, Kentucky. Mustered into service on October 8, 1861. Mustered out of service on October 18, 1864. Commander(s): Colonel Thomas E. Bramlette, Colonel William T. Scott, Colonel Samuel McKee, Colonel William H. Spencer, and Colonel Henry C. Dunlap.