Program

Lafayette Trail

Subject

Event, People

Location

26 Bank Row, Pittsfield, MA 01201, USA

Lat/Long

42.447893, -73.253577

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 period of time he visited Washington D.C., as well as other major cities and small communities across 24 states.

On June 13, 1825, General Lafayette visited Pittsfield, MA. An article dated June 16, 1825 appeared in the Berkshire Star and described his arrival:

The arrangements made for the reception of General Lafayette, considering the very short notice of his approach, reflect great credit upon the citizens of Pittsfield. A triumphal Arch was thrown across the street in front of the meeting house, on both sides of which was inscribed in large letters, the names of the towns where the General had been a most conspicuous actor during the revolutionary war; and in the centre of the Arch was placed the words “WELCOME LAFAYETTE”. Over the Arch majestically floatted <sic> the American Flag. At a little before 6 o’clock General Lafayette alighted from the carriage, opposite Mr. Merrick’s Coffee House, amid the hearty cheers of delighted thousands.