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You are here: Home / Archives for West Point

[FEATURED EXHIBIT] Cadet Charles Young: Third African American Graduate of West Point

June 20, 2020 By James Mitchell Varnum

The Varnum Memorial Armory Museum has a unique albumen photo of the West Point Class of 1877 with Cadet Charles Young, a true American hero. He was the third African American graduate of West Point. He was the first Black American U.S. National Park Superintendent, first military attache, first to achieve the rank of Colonel, and also was the highest-ranking African American officer in the regular Army at that time.

He served with distinction in the American Indian Wars, Spanish-American War, Philippine-American War, the Poncho Villa Expedition, and World War I. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

This exhibit is on loan from Angelo Scarlato.

  • Cadet Charles Young
  • Cadet Charles Young Exhibit
  • Cadet Charles Young Exhibit Card

Filed Under: Museum Exhibits, Varnum Memorial Armory Tagged With: african american history, West Point

[DEC. 12 DINNER MEETING] Speaker Greg Banner on The Halifax Disaster

December 3, 2022 By James Mitchell Varnum

In December 1917, a World War I ammunition ship blew up in Halifax Harbour, Nova Scotia. This massive event was listed as the largest man-made explosion in human history prior to atomic weapons and totally devastated the city. Thousands died. Our December speaker, Varnum Member Greg Banner, will describe the background, event, response, and results and discuss aspects of military, nautical, local, and emergency response history.

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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