
In 1913, just six years after their formation, the Varnum Continentals began construction of a medieval-style armory at the corner of Main and Division Streets in East Greenwich, RI. When completed about a year later, the armory included a 40-foot by 110-foot drill hall and a home for the organization’s respected collection of weaponry, uniforms, historic artifacts, and militaria.
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Events at the Armory

The armory drill hall has hosted many public and private events over the years including community gatherings, banquets, dances, hobby shows, private celebrations, non-profit fundraisers, and a lot more!
The Varnum Memorial Armory drill hall space is extremely versatile. Left on it’s own, it provides a unique “Americana” ambiance to an event that can’t be reproduced! Alternately, it can be “dressed to the hilt” to provide a totally different look and feel (see the Alice in Wonderland gallery below).
Armory Rental Rates
WEDDINGS (and similar events): $1,200.00
PRIVATE and BUSINESS groups: $1,000.00
NON-PROFIT groups charging admission: $800.00
NON-PROFIT groups not charging admission: $600.00
Rental rates assume a minimum of 6 hours of use. Event rental fees directly support our mission to preserve and promote the historic heritage of our community, our state, and our nation!
CLICK HERE TO RENT THE VARNUM MEMORIAL ARMORY!
Our Military History Museum
The Varnum Armory Museum includes representative examples of weaponry, uniforms and artifacts dating from colonial America and through the 20th century. Among the more unusual items: a functioning 1883 Gatling gun, a Civil War era James Conversion six-pound rifled cannon, and a collection of more than 600 American and foreign patriotic and propaganda posters from World Wars I and II.
Book a tour at the Varnum Memorial Armory!
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!