Attendees discovered the unsung and underwritten heroes of the American Revolution at this day-long learning event. African Americans, Indigenous people, women, and many others shaped the fight for independence in ways many do not appreciate or even know about. The program addressed that shortfall and helped participants appreciate pivotal (but forgotten) people and forces in America’s early history.
The event launched from the former home of a Rhode Islander who exemplified a “Forgotten Founder,” General James Mitchell Varnum, who commanded troops during the American Revolution, founded the 1st Rhode Island Regiment (the “Black Regiment”), and played an integral role in forming the rule of law in early America.
The Varnum House Museum hosted the event. All lectures and keynote addresses took place at St. Luke’s Church next door.
— DR. NORMAN DESMARAIS: “THE FRENCH IN NEWPORT”
Norman Desmarais is a professor emeritus at Providence College and an active reenactor. He is a member of Le Regiment Bourbannais, the 2nd Rhode Island Regiment, and the Brigade of the American Revolution. Mr. Desmarais is the author of Guide to the American Revolutionary War series (13 volumes), as well as America’s First Ally: France in the American Revolutionary War, as well as other books and numerous translations
— ROBERT A. GEAKE: “WITNESS TO A FRAGILE FREEDOM: RESURRECTING THE LIFE OF SILAS ROYAL”
Robert A. Geake is a public historian and the author of fifteen books relating to Rhode Island and New England history, including From Slaves to Soldiers, the First Rhode Island Regiment in the Revolutionary War, New England Citizen Soldiers, and The Battle Off the Field in the American Revolution.
— DR. SHIRLEY GREEN: “REVOLUTIONARY BLACKS: DISCOVERING THE FRANK BROTHERS”
Shirley Green received her PhD in history from Bowling Green State University in 2011. She is currently an Adjunct Professor of History at the University of Toledo, OH and Bowling Green State University. She is also the Director of the Toledo Police Museum. She served as a Toledo Police Officer for 26 years. Dr. Green will be speaking about her recent book Revolutionary Blacks: Discovering the Frank Brothers, Freeborn Men of Color, Soldiers of Independence.
— KEITH STOKES: “ADVANCING AFRICAN IDENTITY AND FREEDOM IN REVOLUTIONARY AMERICA”
Keith Stokes is Rhode Island’s Historian Laureate, consulting historian for the Rhode Island Black Heritage Society, and a former state advisor for the National Trust for Historic Preservation. He also serves on the RI250 Commission.
The Battle of Rhode Island Association
PO Box 626 Portsmouth, RI 02871
