Varnum Continentals

Preserving and Sharing Rhode Island History

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[FEATURE EXHIBIT] Artillery Sponge/Rammer, and Worm for Civil War James Canon

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We had a great time at the Baltimore Antique Arms Show!  Our collection now has a fantastic artillery sponge/rammer and worm for the Varnum Memorial Armory Museum‘s Civil War James gun.

This set has its original paint and appears to have been actually used in the field to load and swab the bore of a 6-pounder cannon.  It comes from the Valley Forge Historical Society, having been acquired by them in the 1910s.  The collection at that time was said to have come from Antietam and Gettysburg; both not too far from Valley Forge. It’s amazing that the lambs wool (or carpet?) still remains on the sponge head!  This is extremely rare!  Book a tour to see this exciting piece.

Beer Tasting Fundraiser to Feature Rare Civil War Canon

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In preparation for our Guns & Beer VI Annual Beer Tasting Fundraiser (Saturday, November 14), we successfully moved the Civil War James cannon (click here for more information about this canon) from our canon shed to the Varnum Memorial Armory’s drill hall today.

This very rare 19th century canon is being brought out as a special treat to our beer tasting attendees. CLICK HERE TO BUY TICKETS!

Special thanks go to Gordon Kilday (Quonset Auto Body) who provided a flat bed truck for the move and to truck operator Mike Corey along with several Varnum member volunteer assistance.

About the Varnum Continentals

The Varnum Continentals are committed to the preservation of the historic heritage of our community, our state, and our nation. Please take a virtual tour of our museums to learn more about our mission to encourage patriotism. You can participate with us through active membership and/or philanthropic support in our non-profit organization. Donations are tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law. Museum tours are welcomed and our facilities may be rented for suitable events.

Our Mission

The Varnum Continentals are committed to encourage patriotism through the Varnum Armory Museum, the Continental Militia, and the James Mitchell Varnum House and thus to preserve, support, and communicate the military history of our community, our state, and our nation.

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