The Sesquicentennial Independence Exposition, commemorating the One Hundred and Fiftieth Anniversary of American Independence extended from June 1st to December 1st, 1926.  Flag Day, to commemorate the adoption of the Stars and Stripes, was observed on June 14th.  It concluded with a mammoth parade of all the Ancient and Historic Military Commands.  This Military spectacle was reviewed by the Governors of the Thirteen Original States.

On June 16, 1926 the Declaration Chamber of Independence Hall was set aside for a meeting of the Centennial Legion.  As its original founders made history for the CLHMC in 1876, so did its successors make history in 1926.  At this meeting, which was arranged by special permission of the City of Philadelphia, a permanent organization was perfected.  By-laws were adopted and all those Historic Military Commands who accepted invitations to the celebration were elected members.

The by-laws have been amended from time to time.  Over the years, members insisted that a corporation should be formed to manage and control the affairs of the organization.  Therefore, the State of Maryland granted a charter on December 14, 1935 to "The Centennial Legion of Historic Military Commands".

Since it was instituted in 1876, the Centennial Legion has gone through many changes.  In addition to the Annual Election, its Board of Directors composed of military men from each of the Original Thirteen States meets frequently during the year in fostering the objective of the organization.  It has been hailed in the Congressional Record, in the proceedings of the 85th Congress, Second Session, as a composite of the citizenry representing every epoch of this country's history.

In addition to Gen. Harry Heth and Col. Thomas Lanard, the following distinguished men have also served as Commanders:

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