Grand Army of the Republic Badge

These remnants were once part of a badge that belonged to a Union veteran. After the Civil War, veterans on both sides wanted a way to keep in touch with old comrades and relive the glory of their service. Union veterans formed the Grand Army of the Republic, which was similar to the American Legion or Veterans of Foreign Wars. Membership reached its peak in 1890 with over 400,000 members around the United States. Local chapters were named after Union soldiers from that area that were killed in action. The Scott County chapter was named after John Newport, a Union captain who was killed in Virginia. The photograph shows Philip Low(e) wearing a badge similar to the fragments displayed at the museum. Low(e) served in the Second East Tennessee Infantry.

Bonus fact: Julia Marcum, who was featured a couple of weeks ago, was also a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. The organization was only open to Union veterans but an exception was made for her based on her service. The organization provided her with a military funeral.

These remnants were part of a Grand Army of the Republic badge that belonged to the local GAR chapter named after Captain John Newport.

Philip Low(e) is shown wearing a John Newport GAR Post badge. Low(e) served in the 2nd Tennessee Infantry for the Union army and was a member of the John Newport GAR post.

Information provided by Scott County in the Civil War by Paul Roy and the Library of Congress.  Photograph 1 courtesy of the author, photograph 2 courtesy of the descendants of Philip Lowe.