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Historic Site

James Mitchell Varnum House, East Greenwich, RI

Former home of Brigadier General James Mitchell Varnum.

Rhode Island
57 Peirce Street East Greenwich, RI 02818
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East Greenwich, RI

General James Mitchell Varnum was a Brigadier General in the Continental Army, a lawyer, and a key Rhode Island political figure. His Revolutionary War résumé includes commanding troops during the Siege of Boston and the Battle of Long Island, serving as a senior officer at Valley Forge, and helping form the 1st Rhode Island Regiment, notable for enlisting African Americans. The home served as a center for legal and military strategy discussions during the war, with a remarkable roster of guests including George Washington, Marquis de Lafayette, and the Comte de Rochambeau. The home dates to about 1788.

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What's Nearby

Explore more of The Liberty Trail by visiting these nearby attractions.

Historic Site
Colonial Home of General James Mitchell Varnum
Varnum House

East Greenwich, RI 02818

Former home of General James Mitchell Varnum

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James Mitchell Varnum House, East Greenwich, RI
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Former armory and drill field of the Kentish Guard

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Varnum Armory Museum

East Greenwich, RI 02818

Museum with artifacts dating to the 16th century

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First Franco-American operation of the Revolution

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1st Rhode Island Regiment Monument
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Early 20th century postcard depicting Butts Hill Fort in Rhode Island
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Franco-American defensive position in Rhode Island

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Butts Hill Fort
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Former home of the founder of Brown University

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John Brown House
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Red facade of the Stephen Hopkins House in Rhode Island
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Former home of Stephen Hopkins

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Colonial-Era state house of Rhode Island

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Tactical position during the Battle of Rhode Island

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Fort Barton

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Green End Fort
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Marker describing the destruction of the HMS Liberty

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Tavern that hosted British and Loyalist troops

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White Horse Tavern
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Only purpose-built synagogue to survive the Rev War

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Touro Synagogue
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Historic House
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Vernon House

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1780 headquarters of the Comte de Rochambeau

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Vernon House
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America's first purpose-built library

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Redwood Library