The Complete Beginner’s Guide to the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War
The Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW) is a national, congressionally chartered, patriotic and educational organization dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of the Union soldiers and sailors who fought to save the United States during the American Civil War. The Order traces its origins to the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) — the powerful Union veterans’ organization founded in 1866 — and today serves as its legal heir and successor.
The SUVCW carries forward the GAR’s core principles of Fraternity, Charity, and Loyalty, ensuring that the sacrifices of Union veterans are remembered, honored, and taught to future generations.
Origins of the SUVCW
The SUVCW’s roots go back to the post‑war years when Union veterans formed the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) in 1866. The GAR quickly became a major social and political force, advocating for veterans’ rights, establishing Memorial Day, and shaping national memory.
As the GAR aged, its members sought a way to ensure their mission would continue. In 1881, they founded the Sons of Veterans of the United States of America (SV) to carry on their work. The organization was later renamed the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War in 1925, and in 1954, Congress granted the SUVCW a federal charter, formally recognizing it as the official successor to the GAR.
What the SUVCW Does
The SUVCW is active nationwide, with over 200 community‑based Camps organized into Departments across the United States. Its work includes:
1. Preserving Union Veterans’ Graves & Monuments
- Restoring damaged headstones
- Documenting burial sites
- Protecting GAR monuments and memorials. Preservation of GAR memorials is one of the Order’s most important purposes.
2. Conducting Ceremonies & Public Commemorations
- Memorial Day observances
- Graveside rededications
- Patriotic instruction
- Community events honoring Union soldiers
3. Educating the Public
- Sharing Civil War history
- Providing school‑ready educational materials
- Publishing research and historical articles
- Supporting museums and historical societies
4. Supporting Genealogy & Ancestry Research
Members help families trace Union ancestors and understand their service.
5. Continuing the GAR’s Mission
The SUVCW maintains the traditions, values, and public service ethos of the GAR, ensuring that the legacy of Union veterans remains visible and respected.
Membership in the SUVCW
Membership is open to:
- Hereditary Members — men who can prove descent from a Union soldier or sailor
- Associate Members — men who do not have ancestry but support the mission and principles of the Order
This inclusive structure has existed since the early 20th century and continues today.
The SUVCW Today
The National Organization is headquartered at the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and is led by an annually elected Commander‑in‑Chief. The Order publishes The Banner quarterly and maintains active Departments in more than two dozen states.
The SUVCW remains one of the five Allied Orders of the GAR, alongside the Women’s Relief Corps, Ladies of the GAR, Auxiliary to the SUVCW, and Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War.
Why the SUVCW Matters
The SUVCW ensures that the story of the Union — the soldiers who preserved the nation — is not forgotten. Through preservation, education, ceremony, and community service, the Order keeps alive the memory of those who fought to defend the United States and end slavery.
In a time when historical understanding is increasingly important, the SUVCW provides a clear, factual, and honorable voice for Union heritage.