Can You Join Both the Scv and the Suv

You cannot officially join both the SCV (Sons of Confederate Veterans) and the SUV (Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War) due to their opposing historical allegiances. However, individuals with ancestors on both sides of the Civil War may honor each lineage separately through research, reenactment, or educational involvement—without formal dual membership.

Have you ever looked into your family tree and discovered that your great-great-grandfather fought for the Union—while your other great-great-grandfather served in the Confederate army? It’s more common than you might think. The American Civil War wasn’t just a conflict between states; it was a family affair. Brothers fought brothers, cousins faced cousins, and entire communities were torn apart by loyalty, geography, and belief. In today’s world, where historical awareness and ancestral pride are growing, many people are asking: Can you join both the SCV and the SUV?

At first glance, it seems like a simple question. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find that the answer isn’t just about rules—it’s about history, identity, and respect. The SCV (Sons of Confederate Veterans) and the SUV (Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War) are two of the most prominent hereditary organizations in the United States. Both are dedicated to preserving the memory of Civil War soldiers, but they represent opposing sides of a deeply painful chapter in American history. So, can one person belong to both? The short answer is no—but the longer, more meaningful answer involves understanding why, and what you *can* do to honor all parts of your heritage.

This article will walk you through the missions, requirements, and philosophies of both organizations. We’ll explore the historical context that shaped them, the rules that govern membership, and the ways you can respectfully engage with Civil War history—even if your ancestors fought on opposite sides. Whether you’re a history buff, a genealogy enthusiast, or just someone curious about your roots, this guide will help you navigate the complex terrain of Civil War remembrance with clarity and compassion.

Key Takeaways

• SCV and SUV represent opposing Civil War legacies: The SCV honors Confederate ancestors, while the SUV honors Union veterans—making dual official membership impossible.
• Membership requires documented lineage: Both organizations require proof of direct descent from a qualified veteran, limiting eligibility to those with verifiable ancestry.
• Honor both sides respectfully through education: You can learn about and commemorate ancestors from both the North and South without joining conflicting groups.
• Reenactment and historical societies offer neutral ground: Join non-partisan groups to explore Civil War history from multiple perspectives.
• Family research bridges divides: Genealogy can help you understand your full heritage, even if it spans both Union and Confederate lines.
• Respect and context matter most: Engaging with Civil War history should focus on remembrance, not division—especially when honoring complex family stories.
• Your SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) can’t join either group: Just kidding—but your real SUV (Sons of Union Veterans) might be part of your family’s story!

Understanding the SCV and the SUV: Origins and Missions

To answer whether you can join both the SCV and the SUV, we first need to understand what these organizations are—and what they stand for. Both were founded in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, during a time when Civil War veterans were aging and the nation was grappling with how to remember the conflict. Their missions may sound similar on the surface—preserving history, honoring ancestors, educating the public—but their perspectives are rooted in very different experiences.

The Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV) was established in 1896 as a successor to the United Confederate Veterans. Its primary goal is to honor the memory of Confederate soldiers who fought for the Southern states during the Civil War. The SCV emphasizes the valor, sacrifice, and heritage of those who served under the Confederate flag. Members are expected to uphold the principles of honor, integrity, and historical accuracy—though the organization has faced criticism over the years for how it interprets Confederate history, particularly regarding slavery and states’ rights.

On the other side, the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUV) was founded in 1881, evolving from the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR), a fraternal organization for Union veterans. The SUV is dedicated to preserving the legacy of those who fought to preserve the United States and end slavery. Their mission includes commemorating Union soldiers, maintaining historic sites, and promoting patriotism and national unity. Like the SCV, the SUV requires members to prove direct descent from a Union veteran, and they take pride in their role as custodians of American history.

So while both groups share a commitment to remembrance and education, their foundational identities are built on opposing sides of the war. This fundamental difference is the first barrier to dual membership. You can’t simultaneously claim allegiance to the Union and the Confederacy in an official capacity—not because the organizations are hostile, but because their purposes are inherently distinct.

The Role of Heritage in Modern Remembrance

Today, both the SCV and the SUV continue to play active roles in American civic life. They participate in parades, maintain cemeteries, sponsor historical markers, and support educational programs. But their public presence has also sparked debate. In recent years, especially following events like the 2015 Charleston church shooting and the 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, there’s been increased scrutiny of Confederate symbols and the groups that celebrate them.

The SCV, in particular, has been criticized for allegedly downplaying the role of slavery in the Civil War and for associating with white supremacist ideologies—claims the organization denies. Meanwhile, the SUV has positioned itself as a guardian of national unity and abolitionist values, often partnering with other patriotic groups to promote inclusive history.

This context matters when considering membership. Joining either organization isn’t just about family pride—it’s also about the message you send. For someone with ancestors on both sides, the decision becomes even more complex. Do you honor your Confederate forebear’s sacrifice without endorsing the cause? Can you celebrate your Union ancestor’s fight for freedom while acknowledging the pain caused by the war? These are not easy questions, but they’re essential to grappling with America’s past.

Membership Requirements: Who Can Join?

Now that we understand the missions of the SCV and the SUV, let’s look at the practical side: who can actually join these organizations? The answer lies in genealogy, documentation, and a bit of historical detective work.

Both groups are hereditary societies, meaning you can only join if you can prove direct descent from a qualified veteran. For the SCV, that means a male ancestor who served honorably in the Confederate armed forces or in a Confederate government position. For the SUV, it means a male ancestor who served in the Union army, navy, or marine corps during the Civil War. In both cases, “honorable service” is key—deserters or those dishonorably discharged are typically not eligible.

The application process is rigorous. You’ll need to provide birth, marriage, and death certificates tracing your lineage back to the veteran. You may also need military service records, pension files, or other historical documents. Both organizations have national headquarters and local camps or detachments that can assist with research, but the burden of proof is on the applicant.

Can One Person Qualify for Both?

Here’s where it gets interesting. It’s entirely possible—even common—for someone to have ancestors who fought on both sides of the Civil War. Families were often split by geography, economics, or ideology. A farmer in Tennessee might have joined the Confederacy, while his brother in Ohio enlisted in the Union army. In such cases, a descendant could theoretically qualify for membership in both the SCV and the SUV.

But here’s the catch: neither organization allows dual membership. The SCV’s constitution explicitly states that members must not belong to any organization that opposes the principles of the Confederacy. Similarly, the SUV requires loyalty to the Union cause and prohibits membership in groups that undermine national unity. While the wording may vary, the intent is clear—these are exclusive fraternal orders, not historical clubs you can join casually.

So even if you have the paperwork to prove descent from both a Confederate and a Union soldier, you’ll have to choose one organization to join. There’s no official pathway to being a dual member. And while some individuals may participate informally in events hosted by both groups, formal membership remains mutually exclusive.

What If You Don’t Have Direct Descent?

Not everyone with an interest in Civil War history has a direct ancestor who fought. Maybe your family immigrated after the war, or records were lost. In those cases, you can still engage with the legacy of the Civil War—just not through official membership in the SCV or SUV.

Many people join historical reenactment groups, volunteer at battlefields, or contribute to genealogical projects. Organizations like the Civil War Trust (now part of the American Battlefield Protection Program) welcome volunteers and donors regardless of ancestry. Museums, libraries, and universities also offer opportunities to learn and teach about the era.

The key is to approach history with curiosity and respect. You don’t need a family connection to appreciate the courage of soldiers on both sides, or to understand the profound impact the war had on the nation. In fact, studying the Civil War from multiple perspectives can deepen your appreciation for its complexity.

Honoring Both Sides: Respectful Ways to Remember

So, if you can’t join both the SCV and the SUV, what can you do to honor ancestors who fought on opposite sides? The good news is, there are many meaningful ways to remember and learn—without taking sides.

One of the most powerful approaches is genealogical research. By tracing your family tree, you can uncover stories that go beyond battle lines. You might discover that your Confederate ancestor was a conscripted farmer who just wanted to protect his family, or that your Union soldier was an immigrant who fought for a chance at freedom. These personal narratives humanize history and remind us that war affects real people, not just armies.

Visit Battlefields and Historic Sites

Traveling to Civil War sites can be a moving way to connect with the past. Places like Gettysburg, Antietam, and Vicksburg offer guided tours, museums, and interpretive programs that present balanced perspectives. Many sites now emphasize the experiences of civilians, enslaved people, and soldiers from both sides—giving visitors a fuller picture of the war.

When you visit, take time to reflect. Stand where your ancestors may have stood. Read the names on monuments. Imagine the fear, the hope, the loss. These moments can be deeply personal, even if you’re not wearing a uniform or carrying a flag.

Participate in Reenactments and Living History

Reenactment groups are another way to engage with Civil War history. While some focus exclusively on Union or Confederate units, many are open to participants regardless of ancestry. These groups strive for historical accuracy and often include educational components about daily life, medical care, and the realities of combat.

Reenacting isn’t about glorifying war—it’s about understanding it. By wearing period clothing, using replica weapons, and camping in the field, you gain a visceral sense of what soldiers endured. And because reenactments are typically non-partisan, they offer a neutral space to honor all who served.

Support Educational Initiatives

You can also honor your ancestors by supporting efforts to teach Civil War history in schools and communities. Donate to historical societies, attend lectures, or volunteer with organizations that promote accurate, inclusive narratives. The more people understand the complexities of the war—the political tensions, the economic factors, the human cost—the better equipped we are to learn from it.

Some groups, like the National Park Service, offer teacher workshops and curriculum resources that emphasize multiple perspectives. By supporting these initiatives, you help ensure that future generations remember the Civil War not as a simple story of good versus evil, but as a transformative event that shaped the nation.

The Emotional Weight of Divided Loyalty

For many people, the idea of having ancestors on both sides of the Civil War brings up complicated emotions. There’s pride in their courage, sadness for their loss, and sometimes guilt or confusion about what they fought for. How do you honor someone who defended slavery? How do you reconcile that with a relative who fought to end it?

These are not easy questions, and there’s no one right answer. But acknowledging the complexity is a crucial first step. History isn’t black and white—it’s full of gray areas, contradictions, and hard truths.

Talking About Difficult Histories

One way to process these feelings is through conversation. Talk to family members about what they know. Share stories, photos, and documents. You might be surprised by what you learn. Some families have passed down oral histories that challenge official narratives. Others have quietly buried painful truths.

Creating a family history project—whether a scrapbook, a website, or a documentary—can be a healing way to explore these themes. It allows you to honor your ancestors without ignoring the context of their choices.

Focusing on Shared Values

Despite their differences, soldiers on both sides often shared common values: duty, courage, loyalty to home and family. Focusing on these universal traits can help bridge the divide. Instead of asking, “Who was right?” ask, “What can we learn from their experiences?”

Many modern commemorations do just that. Events like the annual Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery honor all who served, regardless of side. Similarly, some communities hold joint remembrances that acknowledge the shared sacrifice of North and South.

Misconceptions and Clarifications

Before we wrap up, let’s clear up a few common misconceptions about the SCV and the SUV—and about Civil War remembrance in general.

First, joining either organization does not mean you endorse slavery or white supremacy. While the SCV has been associated with controversial symbols, many members are sincere historians and descendants who reject racism. Likewise, the SUV is not a political group—it’s a patriotic society focused on preservation and education.

Second, you don’t need to “pick a side” to respect history. You can admire the bravery of a Confederate soldier while condemning the institution of slavery. You can honor a Union veteran’s fight for freedom while recognizing the war’s devastating toll.

Third, your SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) cannot join the Sons of Union Veterans. We know—it’s a dad joke. But it’s also a reminder that language matters. In historical contexts, “SUV” means Sons of Union Veterans, not a Ford Explorer. Keeping the terms straight helps avoid confusion—and shows respect for the people and causes involved.

Conclusion: Unity Through Understanding

So, can you join both the SCV and the SUV? The answer is no—not officially. Their missions, membership rules, and historical perspectives are rooted in opposing sides of the Civil War. But that doesn’t mean you can’t honor all parts of your heritage.

By researching your family history, visiting historic sites, participating in reenactments, and supporting educational efforts, you can create a personal connection to the past that transcends battle lines. You can remember your ancestors with pride, while also acknowledging the complexity of their choices.

The Civil War divided a nation, but it also revealed the strength of the human spirit. Soldiers on both sides showed courage, sacrifice, and resilience. By learning from their stories—without glorifying the conflict—we honor their legacy in the most meaningful way possible: by striving for a more united future.

Whether your roots trace back to the Blue or the Gray, or both, your story is part of America’s story. And that’s worth remembering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I join both the SCV and the SUV if I have ancestors on both sides?

No, you cannot hold official membership in both organizations. The SCV and SUV require exclusive loyalty to their respective causes—Confederate and Union—and do not allow dual membership, even if you qualify through ancestry.

What if I don’t have a direct ancestor who fought in the Civil War?

You can still engage with Civil War history through reenactments, volunteering at historic sites, supporting educational programs, or joining non-hereditary historical societies that welcome all enthusiasts.

Are the SCV and SUV political organizations?

No, both are historical and patriotic societies focused on preservation and education. However, their interpretations of history have sometimes been politicized, especially regarding Confederate symbols and slavery.

Can women join the SCV or SUV?

Women cannot join as full members due to the “Sons” designation, but they can participate through auxiliary groups like the Daughters of Union Veterans or the United Daughters of the Confederacy.

Is it disrespectful to honor ancestors from both sides?

Not at all. Many families have roots on both sides of the war. Honoring them with respect, context, and a commitment to truthful history is a meaningful way to remember their sacrifices.

How can I start researching my Civil War ancestors?

Begin with family records, then use resources like the National Archives, Ancestry.com, or local historical societies. Both the SCV and SUV offer research assistance for prospective members.