Program

Lafayette Trail

Subject

Event, People, Site

Location

Fells Church, 800 Fellsburg Road, Belle Vernon, PA 15012, USA

Lat/Long

40.184408627819, -79.824751984068

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.

At 10am on May 29^th, 1825, General Lafayette was expected at the Brick Meeting House in Rostraver, PA. When the General arrived an 18-gun salute was fired, and he reviewed the assembled troops, which included two artillery companies and three field pieces. It was reported that as he examined the artillery pieces, he told the assembled troops that the brass 4-pounder was a Spanish piece and had not been used at the Battle of Saratoga, as had previously been thought. Lafayette then met many citizens and ladies who had assembled, and then was escorted to Beazel’s Tavern, where refreshments were provided. He was also provided with fresh horses, and he proceeded on to Braddock’s fields.