The original GAR ended in 1956. The GAR initially grew and prospered as a de facto political arm of the Republican Party during the heated political contests of the Reconstruction era. The commemoration of Union veterans, black and white, immediately became entwined with partisan politics. The GAR promoted voting rights for black veterans, as many veterans recognized their demonstrated patriotism. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Army_of_the_Republic). The American Civil War ended over 150 years ago. We, the Tea Party are battling against the Progressives who want to re-enslave our nation regardless of Race, Creed or Culture. Resurrect the Grand Army of the Republic as an arm of the Tea Party Movement. My ancestors were Union Soldiers out of New York just as others who stood with General George Washington during the American Revolution fighting the Rebellion against Free People.
I think there are generations of men and women who had ancestors who fought and died during the American Civil War. Today we aren't flinging shot and shell at each other. But we stand out and show America that Patriotism is alive and we will not allow Progressives to Tread on our Freedoms. Give them yet another party to worry about and resurrect the Grand Army of the Republic 2014.
There are several GAR Halls still standing and being cared for by the Sons of the GAR.
Grand Army of the Republic Hall:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Army_of_the_Republic_Hall_%28disambiguation%29
These could be utilize as rally gatherings if the GAR caretakers would allow it.