John Thomas Ashley SCV camp 43-Honea Path SC

06/03/2026

06/03/2026

05/26/2026

A woman once called “Queen of the Confederacy” became a symbol of power, beauty, and propaganda hidden inside wartime currency.

Lucy Holcombe Pickens was a prominent Southern social figure in the mid-19th century who rose to public attention through her marriage to Francis Wilkinson Pickens, the governor of South Carolina during the Civil War. Born into a wealthy Texas family, she received an unusually advanced education for a woman of her time, which later helped her move within elite political and diplomatic circles.

Before the Civil War, Lucy traveled abroad with her husband during his diplomatic service, including time in Russia, where she was exposed to European court culture and high society. These experiences contributed to her reputation as an intelligent and socially influential figure within Southern elite circles. When the Civil War began, she returned to a South deeply engaged in political and cultural conflict.

During the Confederate period, Lucy became a symbolic figure in Southern society. She was admired for her elegance and status, and in some circles was romantically labeled the “Queen of the Confederacy,” though this was an informal cultural title rather than an official designation. She also contributed to Confederate symbolism, including involvement in flag presentation and morale-focused activities that were common among elite women supporting the war effort.

Her image appeared on Confederate currency issued during the 1860s, making her one of the few real women depicted on paper money in that era. However, claims that she was “the first woman ever on American currency” are misleading. The Confederate States of America was a breakaway government that existed during the Civil War and was not the foundation of U.S. national currency history. Later, women such as Martha Washington appeared on official U.S. currency issued by the federal government.

Modern historians view Lucy Holcombe Pickens as part of a broader pattern of how the Confederacy used elite figures and symbolic imagery to construct identity during wartime. Her life reflects both the social influence available to elite women in the 19th century and the way political movements often elevate individuals into cultural symbols that extend beyond their historical actions.

05/26/2026

05/25/2026

05/24/2026

I want to extend my sincere appreciation and Congratulations to Brian Summers, the new Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV) Camp Commander in Statesville, North Carolina!

I also want to extend sincere appreciation and thanks to my own SCV Camp Commander in Virginia, along with all the other commanders across the country. I have tremendous respect for the work you all do. While we may not agree on everything, I feel a kinship with you and deeply enjoy my time as a SCV camp member.

Our camp participates in many meaningful and worthwhile activities that I love, including:
• Conducting memorial services at Confederate cemeteries, complete with speakers, honor guard, cannon fire, and flags.
• Placing new markers and plaques.
• Tending gravesites and maintaining cemeteries.
• Keeping flags flying and in good condition.
• Hosting enjoyable social gatherings and more.

These efforts help preserve history and honor those who came before us in a respectful and dignified way. I’m very grateful for the opportunity to be part of this organization, along with independent Flagger organizations, Confederate Memorial Park organizations, southern heritage orgs, etc and contribute alongside such dedicated individuals.

Thank you again to all SCV commanders nationwide for your service and commitment. -RJ

05/24/2026

Click on this link if you or someone you know is interested in joining the Sons of Confederate Veterans!
https://scscv.com/home/join-the-scv/

05/21/2026

Anderson SC