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 new maps he created for this lecture detailing this underrated, yet important battle.
An independent historian, author, and lecturer on the colonial era in Rhode Island, Christian McBurney has written numerous books and articles for various historical publications. He is the editor and publisher of the online journal of Rhode Island history: smallstatebighistory.com. With fellow Varnum Continentals member Brian Wallin, Christian is also the co-author of “World War Two Rhode Island,” published by History Press. Born and raised in South Kingstown, he earned his undergraduate degree at Brown University and is a partner in a Washington, D.C. law firm. He frequently returns to Rhode Island to lecture and visit family.
Reservations must be received by 5:30 pm Friday, December 7. Call Scott Seaback at 401-413-6277 or email him at scott@ritemps.com.
TIME: 5:30 p.m. (social hour); 6:30 p.m. (dinner followed by presentation)
LOCATION: Varnum Memorial Armory Museum, 6 Main St., East Greenwich, RI, 02818.
FEE: $20 including dinner (Steamship Round Carved Beef Dinner)
Books by Christian M. McBurney
Christian M. McBurney is an independent historian who has written several books about the American Revolutionary War (several focusing on Rhode Island). He is an attorney in a Washington, D.C. law firm and resides in Kensington, Maryland. In addition, he is is the editor and publisher of the website “Small State, Big History,” the online review of Rhode Island History.
Cover Title
"The Rhode Island Campaign: The First French and American Operation in the Revolutionary War" by Christian M. McBurney
"Kidnapping the Enemy: The Special Operations to Capture Generals Charles Lee and Richard Prescott" by Christian M. McBurney
"World War II Rhode Island" by Christian M. McBurney, Brian L Wallin, Patrick T Conley
"Abductions in the American Revolution: Attempts to Kidnap George Washington, Benedict Arnold and Other Military and Civilian Leaders" by Christian M. McBurney
"Untold Stories from World War II Rhode Island" by Christian M. McBurney, Norman Desmarais, Varoujan Karentz
"George Washington's Nemesis: The Outrageous Treason and Unfair Court-Martial of Major General Charles Lee during the Revolutionary War" by Christian M. McBurney
"Spies in Revolutionary Rhode Island" by Christian M McBurney
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