Kentish Guards

Rhode Island Historic Militia
Chartered October 29th, 1774

Veterans Day 2019


 

KG NEWS   Updated Nov. 12, 2019

 

Battle streamers awarded and affixed to the Company Flag at Kentish Guards 245th Anniversary Celebration on 26 October 2019.
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The Kentish Guards Fife and Drum Corps is proud to announce the release of their new CD, Then and Now. Listen to samples and order today.
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In commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the organization and deployment of the 2nd RI Volunteer Infantry for service in the Civil War, of which the Kentish Guards were "Company H", we have available the letters of one of its members, Ezra Greene.
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In 2011 at the Westbrook Muster Tattoo, we paid tribute to Maurice A. "Mo" Schoos... friend to many in the fife and drum world and second father to many of us in the Kentish Guards.
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The Kentish Guards is a historic military organization that was chartered by the Colony of Rhode Island on October 29, 1774. Originally formed to protect the town of East Greenwich, Rhode Island from Tory attack, the Kentish Guards served with distinction throughout the American Revolution and the Civil War.

The Kentish Guards continue to this day under their charter and the laws of the state of Rhode Island, and are subject to its good regulation, including inspection by the Adjutant General and the command of the Governor. They were most recently activated by the Governor in 1994 for ceremonial duties connected with the commissioning of the USS Rhode Island. Each year, they participate in the state-run cannon and musket qualification and competition that is held for all the militia companies.

In 1774 the Guards enlisted two fifers and two drummers, appropriate for a company sized organization. They maintained a military band from 1937 to 1977, which in its day was one of the premier musical organizations in Rhode Island.  In 1966 they organized a regimental sized fife and drum corps. The Kentish Guards Fife and Drum Corps continue as one of the leading corps in the nation. Membership in the fife and drum is open to everyone, ages 14 and older. No prior musical experience is necessary, although it is helpful. For more information, please stop by the Armory on a Tuesday or Wednesday night, or use one of the contacts listed.

The Kentish Guards is always seeking new members. If you would like to be a part of this historic group, whether it be the Militia Company or the Fife and Drum Corps, please contact us.

The Kentish Guards is a member of the Centennial Legion of Historic Military Commands, Inc. LEARN MORE

The Armory is open to all visitors on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings at 7:00pm.


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Kentish Guards • 1774 Armory Street • East Greenwich, RI 02818-3747

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