American women's patriotic society, founded in Nashville, Tenn., on Sept. 10, 1894, that draws its members from descendants of those who served in the Confederacy's armed forces or government or who gave to either their loyal and substantial private support. Its chief purpose is broadly commemorative and historical: to preserve and mark sites; to gather historical records and other material; to celebrate historic occasions; and, by offering prizes, to encourage student essays on the historic South. In addition, it aids needy descendants of loyal Confederates, especially in securing education.