The purpose of the return was to report the strength of each regiment, post, department, corps, division, brigade or detached command in total number present, absent, sick or on extra or daily duty, and to give a specific accounting of officers and enlisted men by name. Eventually accounting of strength in horses, equipment, etc. was added. Some returns included additional information on activities of the unit including troup movements, engagements, etc.. Returns were filled out monthly and sent to the Adjutant General. Returns are arranged by Regiment then by date. Only returns from selected units are included in CARL's collection.

Record group 094.

reels 1-13. 1st Cavalry -- reels 14-25. 2nd Cavalry -- reel 26. 3rd Dragoons -- reels 27-39. 3rd Cavalry -- reels 40-50. 4th Cavalry -- reels 51-60. 5th Cavalry -- reels 61-70. 6th Cavalry -- reels 71-78. 7th Cavalry -- reels 79-86. 8th Cavalry -- reels 87-94. 9th Cavalry -- reels 95-102. 10th Cavalry -- reels 103-105. 11th Cavalry -- reels 106-108. 12th Cavalry -- reels 109-111. 13th Cavalry -- reels 112-114. 14th Cavalry -- reels 115-117. 15th Cavalry.