This year, 2020, marks the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II. Our February speaker, Stanley Carpenter, will focus on the key last year of the War in his presentation “Crushing the Reich: Normandy to Berlin, 1944-45.” In this timely talk, Carpenter will explain the strategy and include stories and interesting anecdotes about the Allies’ efforts to defeat Nazi Germany in the crucial last year of the war.
[FEB. 11 DINNER MEETING] Guest Speaker: P. DiMaria and R. Pedro on RI Civil War soldier Private Alfred G. Gardner
The Varnum Memorial Armory Museum exhibit that features the battle-scarred Bible and other artifacts belonging to Rhode Island Civil War soldier Private Alfred G. Gardner (Battery B First Rhode Island Light Artillery) tells a story of sacrifice and devotion to a higher cause. The Bible served as Gardner’s private journal, in which he made observations […]
[DEC. 10 DINNER MEETING] Christian McBurney: The Battle of Rhode Island (1778)
The Battle of Rhode Island, in August 1778, was a key element of the Rhode Island Campaign, the first French and American Operation in the American Revolutionary War. This year marked the 240th anniversary of this confrontation between colonial and British forces on Aquidneck Island. Our Monday, December 10 speaker, Christian McBurney, will share 12 […]
Varnum Historic Military Command at the Rhode Island State House for flag presentation
Statues in the Rhode Island State House honor various branches of the U.S. Military service. Each statue (purchased by the State in 1945) was meant to be flanked by a U.S. flag and a flag representing that branch of the military. Three of these flags were missing for many years; the Rhode Island Historic Military […]
[JUNE 11 DINNER MEETING] Cookout at the Varnum House Museum
On Monday, June 11, 2018, the Varnum members’ meeting will be held on the grounds of the Varnum House Museum. It’s a chance to kick back, enjoy the gardens, and tour the historic 1773 Varnum House. Burgers, hot dogs, BBQ grilled chicken, dessert, and all the staples of a summer cook-out will be served, plus […]
[APR. 9 DINNER MEETING] Patrick Donovan on U.S. Civil War Battle of New Bern
At our April Members’ Dinner Meeting, Varnum Memorial Armory Museum Curator Patrick Donovan will tell the story of the Civil War Battle of New Bern that took place early in the U.S. Civil War on March 14, 1862. Patrick will discuss the 4th Rhode Island Volunteers‘ important and heroic role in the attack to capture […]
[JUNE 12 DINNER MEETING] Cookout at the Varnum House Museum
The June 12th Varnum Continentals members’ meeting will be held on the grounds of the Varnum House Museum. It’s a chance to kick back, enjoy the gardens, and socialize with your fellow Varnum Continentals. Burgers, hot dogs, BBQ grilled chicken and all the staples of a summer cook-out will be served, plus a choice of […]
[MAY 8 DINNER MEETING] Abductions in the American Revolution: Christian McBurney speaks about his latest book
At the Monday, May 8 Varnum Continentals Members’ Meeting, respected historian and author Christian McBurney will talk about his latest book, “Abductions in the American Revolution: Attempts to Kidnap George Washington, Benedict Arnold and Other Military and Civilian Leaders” (McFarland, 2016). This book covers more than thirty major attempted and successful abductions of military and […]
Varnum Memorial Armory Museum Awarded $43,000 RI State Preservation Grant
Historic Linden Place in Bristol, RI, hosted the the Rhode Island State Government’s announcement of the latest State Cultural Facilities Grant and State Preservation Grant recipients. Among the $3.8 million awarded for awarded for capital preservation work at 33 museums, cultural art centers, and public historic sites, the Varnum Memorial Armory Museum was awarded $43,450 […]
New Musket Displays at the Varnum Memorial Armory Museum!
We can’t wait to get these new musket display racks into the Varnum Memorial Armory Museum! These museum display racks have been custom made by Varnum Continentals member Jay Curci, owner and proprietor of The Custom Shop RI (specializing in custom cabinetry, architectural interiors, and fine woodworking). Many thanks to Jay for his generous donation […]