NWRCAGAR
National Women's Relief Corps, Auxiliary to the Grand Army of the Republic
"to perpetuate the memory of those who sacrificed much and sometimes all in the American Civil War; provide assistance to veterans of all wars and extend needed aid to them and to their widow(er)s and orphans."
About the National Woman’s Relief Corps
The National Woman’s Relief Corps (WRC), Auxiliary to the Grand Army of the Republic, is a historic patriotic organization founded in 1883 to assist Union veterans of the American Civil War and their families. Chartered by the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR), the Woman’s Relief Corps played a central role in veteran welfare, memorialization, and patriotic education during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Who the Organization Represents
The National Woman’s Relief Corps represents the legacy of women who supported Union veterans and preserved the memory of those who served in the Civil War. Today, the organization continues to honor Union service and promote patriotic remembrance, historical preservation, and civic education.
What the Organization Does
- Preserves the history and legacy of Union veterans of the Civil War
- Maintains memorial traditions associated with the Grand Army of the Republic
- Supports historic preservation, archives, and educational initiatives
- Promotes patriotism and civic responsibility
- Participates in commemorative ceremonies and remembrance activities
Where the Organization Operates
The National Woman’s Relief Corps operates as a national organization with departments and local corps across the United States. Activities are conducted at the national, state, and local levels, often in coordination with historic GAR posts, museums, and memorial sites.
Membership Eligibility Requirements
The National Woman’s Relief Corps is a patriotic heritage organization rather than a modern veterans service organization.
- Membership is open to women who support the purposes and objectives of the organization.
- Lineal descent from a Union Civil War veteran is not required for membership.
- Members are expected to uphold the traditions, values, and historical mission of the Woman’s Relief Corps.
- Membership categories and requirements are governed by national bylaws.
How Membership Is Structured
Membership is administered through local corps organized under state departments and the national organization. Members participate in meetings, commemorative events, preservation projects, educational outreach, and governance activities that sustain the legacy of the Grand Army of the Republic and Union service.