Honoring 250 Years of History

This volunteer cavalry troop was the first organized defense of the colonies.

Today, it stands as the oldest mounted military unit and quite possibly the oldest continuously serving military unit in the Republic. The times that necessitated its formation and the character of the original members who fought through the seven years of the American Revolution created enduring concepts of service and tradition, giving it a purpose that has persisted for nearly 250 years.

Historic Troop

This purely volunteer cavalry troop was the first organized defense of the colonies. Today, it is the oldest mounted military unit and possibly the oldest continuously serving military unit in the Republic. Formed during the American Revolution, the Troop’s original members established enduring concepts of service and tradition, maintaining its purpose since 1774.

The First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry is a private military organization serving the United States. Unique demands and opportunities create a closely knit fraternity among its members, with membership granted by election.

In warfare the Troop mission is to serve as the commander’s eyes and ears on the battlefield. This role requires a soldier who is flexible, intelligent, resourceful, courageous, and eager for the challenges of reconnaissance. As part of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, the Troop also supports peacetime disaster relief and civil authorities.

Royal Visit Philidelphia 2007

Abraham Markoe First Captain

Historical Documentary

"For These We Strive"

This documentary, titled after the historic flag known as "The Markoe Standard", will take the viewer on a captivating journey with filmmaker Anastasia Markoe, the 4th great-granddaughter of Abraham Markoe. Abraham Markoe was the first captain of the First City Troop of Philadelphia and the financier of one of the first American flags.

As Anastasia delves into the rich history of this lesser-known American story, the narrative transitions to an unexpected turn. Six troopers from the First City Troop are deployed to Iraq, and the story moves to the other side of the world. The documentary captures their mission, showcasing their efforts to preserve freedom through adversity.

"For These We Strive" blends historical exploration with contemporary military experiences, creating a powerful and inspiring tale of service, tradition, and resilience.

20 Years in the Making

Behind the Scenes with Kevin Lang and Anastasia Markoe

June 2004, the first trip to the First City Troop's Armory in Philidelphia. In this photo, filmmaker Kevin Lang and Anastasia Markoe are captured in a candid moment while filming inside a museum. Surrounded by historical artifacts, they are deeply engrossed in their work, unaware of the incredible journey their documentary would take over the next 20 years. This behind-the-scenes shot embodies the beginning of an unexpected and compelling story that transcends time and history.

2024 We're back baby!

Anastasia Markoe and Kevin Lang,

April 2024, Filmmakers Anastasia Markoe and Kevin Lang take a break from work in the iconic "Pete Conrad" airstream, their dedicated post-production office. Surrounded by screens displaying footage from their documentary, they are immersed in the editing process for the 250th Anniversary of the Troop. With focused determination, they meticulously weave together elements of the Troop's historic journey, seamlessly connecting moments from Iraq with 250 years of rich military history. This behind-the-scenes glimpse captures their dedication to crafting a narrative that honors both tradition and contemporary service, poised to inspire audiences with its depth and resonance.

Filmmaker Anastasia Markoe

Contact Us

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