Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War

The Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW) is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of those who fought to preserve the Union in the American Civil War. SUVCW serves as the legal successor to the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR), a post-Civil War veterans' organization that was established in 1866 and dissolved in 1956.

History

The SUVCW was organized in November 1881 as the Sons of Veterans of the United States of America (SV) by Major Augustus P. Davis to ensure the continuation of GAR's principles and traditions. Initially, membership was limited to male descendants of GAR members or eligible Civil War veterans. In 1925, the organization's name was changed to Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW), and it received a federal charter in 1954. Over time, the SUVCW also admitted men as Associates who did not have GAR lineage but shared the organization's values and objectives.

Objectives and Activities

The SUVCW operates under the core principles of Fraternity, Charity, and Loyalty, mirroring those of its predecessor, the Grand Army of the Republic. Its activities focus on:

• Preserving History: Engaging in historical research, maintaining Civil War sites, and organizing reenactments.
• Ceremonial and Commemorative Events: Participating in parades, reenactments, and other community events to honor Union veterans.
• Charitable Work: Engaging in community service and charitable endeavors to reflect the GAR's tradition of charity.

The organization has a ceremonial uniformed military division known as the Sons of Veterans Reserve (SVR), which participates in various historical events.

Structure

The SUVCW is structured into multiple levels of organization:

• National Level: The organization holds an annual National Encampment where members gather to elect leadership and conduct business.
• Department Level: The SUVCW is divided into geographical Departments, each overseeing multiple local Camps.
• Local Camps: These are the grassroots units of the organization, where most activities and community engagement occur.

Tax Status

The Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War has been granted tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. This allows donors to deduct contributions from their federal tax returns and enables the organization to receive tax-deductible gifts.

Publications

The SUVCW publishes a national quarterly publication called The Banner. Regional Departments may also issue their own newsletters, such as The Volunteer in New York.

Allied Orders

The SUVCW is one of five Allied Orders of the GAR, which also include the Ladies of the Grand Army of the Republic, Woman’s Relief Corps, Auxiliary to Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, and Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War. These organizations work together to maintain the legacy of the GAR and its principles.