Program

Lafayette Trail

Subject

Event, People, Site

Location

6219 Railroad St, Cayuga, NY 13034, USA

Lat/Long

42.9185, -76.7296

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.

On June 8, 1825, General Lafayette was moving east from Geneva and Waterloo, towards Auburn and Syracuse. He crossed the Cayuga Long Bridge, arriving in the Village of Cayuga around 4pm. He was met there by the Committee of Arrangements members from Auburn, who gave him a welcoming address. Many local citizens then had the opportunity to meet him. After about an hour, the General proceeded on towards Auburn via Genesee Street, in a barouche pulled by six chestnut horses. He was escorted by a procession, including the Deputy Marshall, a Dragoon unit, mounted military officers, the city Marshall General Brinkerhoff, and the Committee of Arrangements members.