A Step‑by‑Step Guide for New Members

Joining the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW) connects you to a nationwide brotherhood dedicated to honoring Union soldiers, preserving Civil War history, and continuing the mission of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR). The SUVCW is a congressionally chartered organization and the legal heir to the GAR, making membership both meaningful and historically significant.

This guide explains exactly how to join — whether you have a Union ancestor or simply support the mission.

Step 1 — Choose Your Membership Type

The SUVCW offers two primary membership paths: Hereditary and Associate.

Hereditary Membership

You qualify if you are a male descendant (age 14+, or 6–14 for Juniors) of a Union soldier, sailor, Marine, or Revenue Cutter Service member who served honorably between April 12, 1861, and April 9, 1865. Descendants of siblings of Union veterans also qualify.

Requirements include:

• Direct descent from an eligible Union veteran
• No conviction of an infamous or heinous crime
• Neither you nor your ancestor ever voluntarily bore arms against the United States

Associate Membership

If you do not have Union ancestry but support the mission, you may join as an Associate Member. Associates enjoy full rights except holding certain hereditary‑specific offices.

Step 2 — Connect With a Local Camp or Department

The SUVCW strongly encourages applicants to join through the nearest Camp or Department, which speeds up the process and provides personal guidance.

• Camps are local community‑based groups
• Departments cover entire states (like the Department of Kentucky)

If you cannot find a local Camp, you may apply through the National Organization, but processing may take longer.

Step 3 — Complete the Membership Application (Form 3)

The official SUVCW membership form is Form 3, available from National Headquarters.

You will need:

For Hereditary Applicants

• Your ancestor’s name
• Regiment or unit (if known)
• Proof of service (pension file, roster entry, muster roll, etc.)
• Proof of lineage (birth, marriage, or census records)

For Associate Applicants

• A brief statement of support for the SUVCW mission
• Standard personal information

The form includes instructions and fee information.

Step 4 — Submit Your Application

Submit your completed Form 3 to:

• Your local Camp
• Your Department (if no Camp is nearby)
• Or the National Junior Vice Commander‑in‑Chief if you cannot locate a local unit (email provided on the national site)

Your application will be reviewed, and you may be contacted for additional information.

Step 5 — Pay Dues and Be Initiated

Once approved:

• You will pay your annual dues (varies by Camp/Department)
• You will be formally welcomed into the Order
• You will receive your membership certificate and materials

You are now part of a national brotherhood of more than 6,000 members dedicated to honoring Union veterans.

Why Join the SUVCW?

Members enjoy:

• A direct connection to Civil War history
• Participation in ceremonies and preservation projects
• Access to genealogy support
• Opportunities for leadership and community service
• A role in continuing the mission of the GAR

Joining the SUVCW is a meaningful way to honor the men who preserved the United States.