Colonel Edward D. Baker, powerful congressman and close friend of President Lincoln, organized the Third California Volunteer Infantry Regiment in Philadelphia, one of four regiments of the California Brigade. Baker wanted the brigade to represent and give credit to California in the Federal army.
Colonel Edward D. Baker, a prominent congressman and close associate of President Lincoln, organized the Third California Volunteer Infantry Regiment in Philadelphia, one of four regiments comprising the California Brigade.  Baker sought to establish the brigade as a symbol of California's participation within the Union army.