Confederate Service Grave Markers

The idea of bestowing the Southern Cross of Honor to veterans of the American Civil War was conceived in Atlanta in July 1898 by Mrs. Alexander S. (Mary Ann Lamar Cobb) Erwin of Athens, GA, at a reunion of Confederate veterans.  Mrs. Erwin and Mrs. Sarah E. Gabbett of Atlanta are credited with the design of the medal: a Maltese cross with a wreath of laurel surrounding the words "Deo Vindice (God our Vindicator) 1861-1865" and the inscription, "Southern Cross of Honor" on the face.  On the reverse side is a Confederate battle flag surrounded by a laurel wreath and the words "United Daughters of the Confederacy to the UCV [United Confederate Veterans]". 

The Southern Cross of Honor is also used as a symbol on the graves of Confederate Veterans who served honorably.  It can take different forms which can sometimes both be seen on a soldier's grave.  One form is a two-sided, cast iron replica of the medal. This cross stands atop a metal rod placed into the ground at the veteran's grave.  It is sometimes referred to as the "Iron Cross of Honor" or "SCV Iron Cross."  The cross is typically placed on Confederate graves by local chapters of the Sons of Confederate Veterans or by family members or interested parties related to the Confederate Veteran.  The iron cross version of the SCH is available for purchase through SCV Camp #68 as well as several private foundries throughout the United States.  The grave of any Confederate Veteran who served honorably is eligible for placement of this symbol.

If you know of a Confederate veteran's grave that is not already marked, and if you are interested in sponsoring an SCV Grave Marker, please contact us and we can provide you with additional information.