A key aspect of the Varnum Continental’s mission is to preserve Rhode Island military history. To that end we are working with the Benefit Street Arsenal to professionally conserve and mount a priceless Rhode Island Civil War treasure: a Confederate artillery battery guidon flag captured by the 4th Rhode Island Volunteers after making a desperate charge at the Battle of New Bern on March 14, 1862.
The flag was sent home and placed here at Benefit Street where it was hung with nails for 155 years. The flag is a valuable symbol of the sacrifice that Rhode Island made for the cause of freedom and Union. We’re very proud of this important conservation work. Many thanks goes out to Brendan Synnamon of the Union Drummer Boy in Gettysburg for his expert assistance.
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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We’re a private nonprofit organization receiving no state or federal funding. We depend on your donations to support out valuable work to preserve U.S. history and support our two museums. MAKE A DONATION TODAY!