The Varnum Memorial Armory Museum is excited to announce that we will be temporary caretakers of two of Rhode Island’s most important military artifacts: the “Gettysburg Gun” (pictured) and the “Bull Run Gun”. These two American Civil War cannons represent incredible, emotional tales of Rhode Island heroism and sacrifice. We are developing all new interpretative signage to tell their epic stories. To complement the cannon exhibit, the Varnum Armory Museum collection includes several artifacts on display that are directly related to the guns and the pivotal battles they are named for.
The cannons will be on display at the Varnum Armory for a period of two years starting this August. This coincides with a major renovation project that will be on-going at the Rhode Island State House, making this temporary loan both good timing and a true “win-win” for both the State and the Varnum Armory Museum.
We would like to thank Governor Dan McKee, the Secretary of State’s Office, the RI State Legislature, RI State Archives, RI Department of Administration, RI Department of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance, the Rhode Island State House Restoration Society, as well as the RI State House Facility Management team for all their support and good will towards this project.
We are honored to be able to care for these historic guns and will share their stories soon! Stay tuned!
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