National Society Daughters of the Union 1861-1865

 

The National Society Daughters of the Union 1861-1865 was founded October 9, 1912 in New York City, New York by Mrs. Frank Crowell. The Society is a hereditary society formed to honor the soldiers and patriots who were dedicated to preserving the Union during the Civil War.

 

Membership is open to any woman eighteen years of age or over provided she is a direct lineal or collateral descendant of a man or woman who rendered military or civil service to the Union during the years 1861-1865.  Legal adoption shall not qualify for lineal or collateral descent.  Documentary proof of the ancestor's service in one the following categories is necessary for admission into the Society:

Served honorably in the Union Army or Navy.  A military or pension record from the National. Archives or honorable discharge certificate is required, when available.
 

• Served in a pro-Union county or state militia or home guard.
• Served as a civilian employee of Union forces.
• Rendered material aid, medical attention, or comfort to Union forces.
• Served as a member of President Lincoln's cabinet.
• Served as an employee of the Federal government.
• Suffered the loss of personal property or personal liberty due to unfailing allegiance to the Union.

 

Junior membership is open to any female child under eighteen years of age who meets the eligibility requirements above.
 
Membership can be through a Chapter of the National Society or At Large.

 

Application Instructions

Application Form

 

This is an example of an NSDU membership badge.  It is most likely one of the earlier (original?) versions based upon the member number engraved on the reverse.  There is a 14K version that could be purchased by the member.

 

This is a newer 14K version, note the change in the design of the pendant.

 

 

Very neat Kevin.  I have not seen one of these before.

 

 

 

A side-by-side comparison of the two pendants suggests the one on the left is an earlier design as the US Flag bears 39 stars while the one on the right has 49 stars.  How, when, and why these changes were made is unknown to me.