The Artillery Company of Newport marked its 284th birthday with a celebratory dinner at its Clarke Street armory in Newport on March 29, 2025.
Congressman Gabe Amo addresses the gathering as the guest speaker, with over 44 Artillery Company members, their families, and guests in attendance.
During his speech, Amo highlights the unique historical significance of Rhode Island events, saying, “It’s amazing to tell my colleagues in Congress that I attend events with centuries of history, like the Artillery Company’s 284-year legacy.”
The congressman presents the Artillery Company with a citation recognizing its 284 years of ongoing service to Newport and Rhode Island.
Colonel Commanding William Farrell emphasizes how the Artillery Company has become an integral part of Newport’s history “during both war and peacetime.”
The celebration includes a traditional cake-cutting ceremony, with 18-year-old Private Antony Insana, the youngest member, and 82-year-old Colonel Robert Edenback, the eldest, sharing the honor.
Additional speakers at the event are Newport City Councilman Xaykham “Xay” Rexford Khamsyvoravong, retired U.S. Army Brigadier General Peter Zwack, and Newport architect John Grosvenor.
Grosvenor discusses the historical importance of Clarke Street and outlines plans for the Artillery Company’s 1836 armory to serve as a museum and headquarters in the future.
As part of the celebration, Colonel Farrell awards Rhode Island Artillery Longevity medals to several members and presents commissioning documents, signed by state officials, to others.
