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You are here: Home / Museum Exhibits / [FEATURED EXHIBIT] Original 1775 Charter for the RI United Train of Artillery

[FEATURED EXHIBIT] Original 1775 Charter for the RI United Train of Artillery

September 29, 2016 By James Mitchell Varnum

This is the original charter of the Rhode Island United Train of Artillery (UTA) written April 22nd, 1775, just 3 days after “the shot heard round the world” at Concord, MA, that began the U.S. fight for independence. After raising 80% of the funds through a grant, the document has gone through an extensive conservation process by one of the nation’s best conservators. It was also mounted by the same conservators, allowing it to be safely shared with the public.

The UTA became part of the Continental Artillery Regiment under the famous Henry Knox participating in several important campaigns and battles including Battle of Long Island and the Siege of Boston. This charter is one of the founding documents of the US military … a true American treasure.

Very soon, you will soon be able to see it on display at the Varnum Memorial Armory Museum.

Restored original charter for the Rhode Island United Train of Artillery.
Restored original charter for the Rhode Island United Train of Artillery.
Restored original charter for the Rhode Island United Train of Artillery.
Restored original charter for the Rhode Island United Train of Artillery.
Conservators at work on the original charter for the Rhode Island UTA.

Join the Varnum Continentals for $50!

At only $50 per person annually, membership keeps you in the Varnum loop and supports our efforts to preserve U.S. history and educate the public. Members get a monthly newsletter and can also attend our monthly dinner programs that feature authoritative and engaging speakers on historic and military topics. CLICK HERE TO JOIN NOW!



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Filed Under: Museum Exhibits, Varnum Memorial Armory Tagged With: historic document, museum exhibit, revolutionary war, United Train of Artillery, varnum memorial armory

[DEC. 12 DINNER MEETING] Speaker Greg Banner on The Halifax Disaster

December 3, 2022 By James Mitchell Varnum

In December 1917, a World War I ammunition ship blew up in Halifax Harbour, Nova Scotia. This massive event was listed as the largest man-made explosion in human history prior to atomic weapons and totally devastated the city. Thousands died. Our December speaker, Varnum Member Greg Banner, will describe the background, event, response, and results and discuss aspects of military, nautical, local, and emergency response history.

About the Varnum Continentals

The Varnum Continentals are committed to the preservation of the historic heritage of our community, our state, and our nation. Please take a virtual tour of our museums to learn more about our mission to encourage patriotism. You can participate with us through active membership and/or philanthropic support in our non-profit organization. Donations are tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law. Museum tours are welcomed and our facilities may be rented for suitable events.

Our Mission

The Varnum Continentals are committed to encourage patriotism through the Varnum Armory Museum, the Continental Militia, and the James Mitchell Varnum House and thus to preserve, support, and communicate the military history of our community, our state, and our nation.

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