The history of the Auxiliary to the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (ASUVCW) is closely associated with the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR), which was founded in 1866, and the Allied Orders who were later formed to continue their work. In 1878, GAR Post No. 94 of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania created a Cadet Corps known as the Sons of Veterans. Similar units were organized throughout many neighboring states. In 1882, the first session of the Commandery-in-Chief, Sons of Veterans was held at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

The need for an Auxiliary was soon recognized and through the efforts of Major A. P. Davis, the first Ladies Aid Society was organized at Philadelphia in 1883. The following year it was officially recognized as the Auxiliary to the Sons of Veterans. Ladies Aid Societies were formed in several states in rapid succession, and in 1886 plans for a National Organization were formed, with the first National Encampment being held in Akron, Ohio in September 1887. At the National Encampment at Boston, Massachusetts in 1894, the name was changed to the Sons of Union Veterans Auxiliary, with it eventually becoming known as the Auxiliary to Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War.

The Department of California and Pacific was established on September 19, 1910.

Auxiliary Principles: A firm belief and trust in Almighty God and realization that under his beneficent care and guidance the free institutions of our land, by the assistance and sacrifice of our veterans, have been preserved and the integrity and life of the Nation maintained.

True allegiance to the government of the United States of America, and a respect for devotion and fidelity to its Constitution and laws, with a firm opposition to anything that may tend to weaken loyalty, or in any manner impair the efficiency and permanency of our nation.

Auxiliary Purpose: We strive to assist the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War in keeping alive the memories of our ancestors and their sacrifices for the maintenance of the Union; to aid in caring for helpless and disabled veterans; to properly observe Memorial Day; to aid and assist worthy and needy members of our Auxiliary; to instill true patriotism and love of country; and to spread and sustain the doctrine of equal rights, universal liberty and justice to all. Our Auxiliary members, on national, state, and local levels participate in ceremonies and programs to commemorate events and honor leaders and personalities of the Civil War period and events important to the history to the Grand Army of the Republic. Representatives of the National Organization attend wreath laying ceremonies at the Lincoln Memorial on Lincoln’s birthday, February 12th in Washington, DC; Lincoln Death Day ceremonies at Lincoln’s Tomb, Springfield, Illinois on April 15th; Cathedral of the Pines, Ridge, New Hampshire at the Altar of the Nation, honoring all American war dead, in memory of departed members; and Remembrance Day program in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania at the monument of Albert Woolson, last surviving member of the Grand Army of the Republic.