Albert Woolson-- Last Surviving Union Veteran and Demise of the GAR

Although Woolson never saw combat himself, he was the son of a Union soldier who died at Shiloh.

Woolson died at age 106 in 1956, having outlived Albert Hard of the 37th New York by three years, who was the last-surviving combat veteran.

All property of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) was deeded to the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW). GAR records were given to the Library of Congress. Badges, flags and the official seal were sent to the Smithsonian.

Until its dissolution, the GAR was headquartered in one half of the Chicago Main Library, built in 1893, on Michigan Avenue between Washington and Randolph streets.

The building is now the Harold Washington Library Chicago Cultural Center, but the original GAR meeting hall is preserved. There is a frieze around the room with the names of major Civil War battles as well as artifacts.

Quite an Impressive Place. --B-R'er