The Nevada Civil War Volunteers was founded on December 1, 1980 by Charles Tinder, David Schene, Glenwood Brevick, Christopher Cook, and Kenneth Kruger. The purpose of the organization as stated in the Articles of Incorporation was "the advancement of knowledge and reenactment activities depicting the American Civil War era."

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As an organization, NCWV has remained true to this chartering mission. Members attend battle reenactments across Nevada and California each year;  teach in schools each year; and as an organization, NCWV hosts events each year, in addition to marching in multiple parades and having a presence at community events.

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Member units of the Nevada Civil War Volunteers include the: 8th Michigan Infantry, 1st Nevada Cavalry, 1st Texas Infantry, Norfolk Light Artillery Blues, the United States Christian Commission, and the United States Sanitary Commission.​