Varnum
Armory Museum
Varnum
Armory Museum
Explore Exhibits
About Varnum
Armory Museum
The Varnum Armory Museum displays the largest and best cared for collection of Rhode Island military history in existence. Our vast collection of art, uniforms, weaponry, flags, literature, documents, and other rare military ephemera spans from the 17th century to the American Revolution, the Civil War, and on through to the present day.
Some of the more treasured items include: the oldest flag in America, a letter authored by a Black solider in the 1st RI Regiment of 1778, letters written by George Washington and Nathaniel Greene.
Recent News & Upcoming Events
RI250th Commission holds workshop at Varnum Armory Museum
The RI 250th Cultural Organizations Convening held a workshop at the Varnum Armory Museum to cultivate connections among Rhode Island cultural organizations, raise the visibility
General George S. Patton: Master of the Sword
In the Varnum Memorial Armory Museum collection, we have an outstanding representation of American and foreign saber evolution. Among them is the last American design: the M1913 Army model, designed and advocated by none other than General (at the time, Lieutenant) George S. Patton, Jr.
Varnum’s 1st Rhode Island Regiment Proposed for Congressional Gold Medal
On February 9, 2022, Rhode Island’s congressional delegation, joined by a number of congressmen and senators from both parties, introduced legislation (H.R.6660/S.3607) to award a posthumous Congressional Gold Medal (CGM) honoring the First Rhode Island. The regiment would become known as Varnum’s Continentals from which we take our name as a historic state militia.
Private Tours (Paid)
A private tour is led by the museum curator or a docent. Private tours typically last between 1.5 to 2 hours. Content can be tailored to the interest and knowledge-level of the group or person booking the tour. The fascinating, personal, and often emotional stories that lie behind the artifacts are shared.
A tour of the Varnum Armory Conservation lab can also be included in the tour. Visitors will learn about and see current preservation projects being worked on by our textile and document conservators. Private tours must be booked in advance and confirmed by the Varnum Continentals. Private tours often get a unique chance to interact with and hold some artifacts as well.
