To you, Sons of Confederate Veterans, we will commit the vindication of the cause for which we fought. To your strength will be given the defense of the Confederate soldier's good name, the guardianship of his history, the emulation of his virtues, the perpetuation of those principles which he loved and which you love also, and those ideals which made him glorious and which you also cherish.
Remember, it is your duty to see that the true history of the South is presented to future generations.

Lt. General Stephen Dill Lee, Commander General
United Confederate Veterans
New Orleans, Louisiana April 25, 1906.