Kentish Guards
Rhode Island Historic Militia Chartered October 29th, 1774
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KG NEWS Updated Nov. 12, 2019
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Battle streamers awarded and affixed to the Company Flag at Kentish Guards 245th Anniversary
Celebration on 26 October 2019. CLICK HERE
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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. CLICK HERE
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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. VIEW LETTERS
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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. VIEW VIDEO
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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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