Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War
A Brief History
The Sons of the Union Veterans was a creation of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) which was formed in 1866. The GAR created a Corps of Cadets in 1878 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to pass on its heritage. This later became the Sons of Veterans of the United States of America (SV). The SV was formed in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania on November 12, 1881. These units fuctioned similar to National Guard units and actually served along with the state militia during the Spanish American War.
In 1904, the SV elected to become a patriotic education society and in 1925 changed its name to Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW). The SUVCW created within the organization the Sons of Veterans Reserve (SVR) which was carried on the Army rolls as a Reserve contingent. This kept the military aspect alive.
In 1904, the SV elected to become a patriotic education society and in 1925 changed its name to Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW). The SUVCW created within the organization the Sons of Veterans Reserve (SVR) which was carried on the Army rolls as a Reserve contingent. This kept the military aspect alive.
Some SVR units served with the Army during World War I. After World War I, the SVR was listed as a training company of the U.S. Army. In more recent years, the SVR's mission has become historic, ceremonial and commemorative. Prior to disbanding and before the death of its last member, the GAR officially designated the SUVCW as its successor and heir to its remaining property.
On August 20, 1954 the SUVCW was officially incorporated by an Act of Congress by passing of Public Law 605 of the second session of the 83rd Congress.
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