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You are here: Home / Speaking Program / [OCT 16 ANNUAL MEETING] Author/Historian Robert A. Geake on “From Slave to Soldier”

[OCT 16 ANNUAL MEETING] Author/Historian Robert A. Geake on “From Slave to Soldier”

October 9, 2017 By James Mitchell Varnum

Historian and author Robert A. Geake.
Historian and author Robert A. Geake.

The Monday, October 16 members’ meeting is also the Varnum Continental’s Annual Meeting, and it’s only fitting that we look back at one of the significant accomplishments of the man whose name our organization bears: Rhode Island General James Mitchell Varnum. In the winter of 1777, facing a shortage of troops, General Varnum made the bold move of proposing that a regiment of slaves from the state be created, and that those men be allowed to earn their freedom after three years of service.

The General’s proposal was approved by General George Washington and adopted by the state’s General Assembly. Thus began of one of the most provocative and unique experiments in our military history, one that continues to provoke debate and controversy to this day.

"From Slaves to Soldiers" by Robert A. Geake.
“From Slaves to Soldiers” by Robert A. Geake.

Historian Robert A. Geake’s “From Slaves to Soldier” explores of the struggle to bring the regiment to fruition, their role in the American Revolution, and the legacy they created for future soldiers of color that serve in the Armed Forces today. He’ll share that story with us at our October meeting.

As always, your guests are welcome.

Reservations must be received by 5:00 pm Friday, October 13. Call Scott Seaback at 401/413-6277 or email him at scott@ritemps.com.

TIME: 5:30 pm (social hour); 6:30 pm (dinner followed by program)
MENU: Prime rib, baked potato and sweet potato bar, grilled veggies, salad, rolls & butter, dessert and coffee
LOCATION: Varnum Memorial Armory Museum, 6 Main St, East Greenwich, RI, 02818.
FEE: $20/person including dinner


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!



Make a Donation!

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!


Filed Under: Speaking Program, Varnum Memorial Armory Tagged With: annual meeting, 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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