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Honoring the First Rhode Island Regiment of the Revolution
February 15 @ 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Join the Varnum Continentals and some very special guests for a unique event. It will celebrate the tenacity, heroism and patriotism of the First Rhode Island Regiment.
The regiment comprised those formerly enslaved, free Blacks, and Indigenous People who served alongside other Rhode Islanders in our long and brutal fight for Independence.
Honoring the First Rhode Island Regiment
- Welcome and opening remarks by Varnum Continentals President Patrick Donovan.Posting of flags performed by Varnum’s Regiment Honor Guard.
- Announcement of the First Rhode Island Regiment and Rhode Island Regiment flag conservation project.
- Remarks from attending state officials.
- Honoring theBlack Regiment by Jason Roomes, a descendent of one of the enslaved who served.
- Cutting of the cake closing ceremony.
- Varnum Armory Museum exhibit galleries open til 3 p.m.
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 also participate with us through active membership and/or philanthropic support in our nonprofit 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.
About the RI 250th Commission
2026 marks the 250th anniversary of our nation. The Rhode Island Semiquincentennial 250th Commission (RI 250th Commission) was established in 2021 through a joint resolution from the General Assembly.
Rhode Island has a pivotal role in the founding of our country. The attack on the HMS Gaspee marked the first act of aggression against the British. Rhode Island and the nation commemorates it as the spark that ignited the American Revolution. This important anniversary presents an opportunity for Rhode Islanders, and all Americans, to reflect on the many significant events that inspired the birth of our country from diverse perspectives.
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Learn more Revolutionary history in this complete guide to Revolutionary War sites in New England. Brought to you by the New England Historical Society. Click here to order your copy in paperback, here to order an ebook.