Rhode Islanders participated in nearly every major battle of the American Civil War, firing the first volleys at Bull Run, and some of the last at Appomattox. How many died is a question that has long eluded historians. Drawing on a 20-year study of regimental histories, pension files, letters, diaries, and visits to every cemetery in the state, award-winning Civil War historian Robert Grandchamp documents, in his book Rhode Island’s Civil War Dead, the 2,217 Rhode Islanders who died as a direct result of military service.
At out March meeting, Mr. Grandchamp will talk about his research and findings and tell the story of three Rhode Island men killed in action during the Civil War and whose military artifacts are in the Varnum Memorial Armory Museum.
About the speaker
Robert Grandchamp is the award winning author of fifteen books and numerous other works on American military history, including The Seventh Rhode Island Infantry, The Boys of Adam’s Battery G, and Rhody Redlegs. He received his Masters degree in American history from Rhode Island College. Robert is a former National Park Ranger with service at Shenandoah, Blackstone Valley, and Harpers Ferry. Since 2011, he has been an analyst with the U.S. Immigration Service.
Reservations must be received by 6:00 pm Friday, March 6.
PLEASE NOTE: Dinner reservations are mandatory and MUST be received by the RSVP date above. NO WALK-INS ALLOWED!
MEETING DATE: Monday, March 9.
TIME: 5:30 pm (social hour); 6:30 (dinner followed by program)
LOCATION: Varnum Memorial Armory Museum, 6 Main Street, East Greenwich, RI
DINNER MENU: Corned beef dinner; plus Chicken Marsala, salad dessert.
FEE: $20/person
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