Program

Lafayette Trail

Subject

Event, People, Site

Location

Courthouse Park, 10 Market St, Norwich, CT 06360, USA

Lat/Long

41.524185514311, -72.077108939544

Grant Recipient

The Lafayette Trail, Inc.

When America declared its independence on July 4, 1776, the thirteen colonies were pulled into a conflict with one of the world’s most formidable powers, Great Britain. The colonies’ actions against Great Britain inspired a young French aristocrat and military officer, Marquis de Lafayette, to depart his native France to fight in the American Revolution. Lafayette served as a commander with the Continental Army throughout the war and helped secure French support for the American cause. This support played an integral part in securing American victory during the war.

Celebrated as a hero in the U.S. and France, Lafayette eventually returned to his home country. In 1824 Marquis de Lafayette was invited to visit the United States for the first time in 41 years. As an American hero and one of the only surviving commanders from the Revolution, Lafayette’s visit to the U.S. was highly anticipated and met with a great deal of enthusiasm and excitement. Lafayette’s Tour extended from 1824 to 1825. During this time he visited Washington D.C., as well as major cities and small communities across 24 states.

In August of 1824 the citizens of Norwich, CT requested that the town officials send a request to General Lafayette to visit their town. The officials sent a deputation to New-London, NY to ask him to visit Norwich on his way to Boston. On August 22, 1824, Lafayette was met in Montville by a group of citizens who, along with the deputation, escorted him to Norwich. On his arrival a National Salute was fired, and citizens gathered to see him. He was received at Kinney’s Hotel, where the mayor gave an address and Lafayette gave a reply. Hundreds of citizens then had the opportunity to meet him briefly. General Lafayette was entertained and stayed for supper before continuing on his trip.