Program

Lafayette Trail

Subject

Event, People, Site

Location

11350 Constitution Hwy, Montpelier Station, VA 22957, USA

Lat/Long

38.22849, -78.176564

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 November 15, 1824, General Lafayette left Thomas Jefferson’s residence, Monticello, and was escorted to Montpelier, the home of former U.S. President James Madison. During his visit, Lafayette and Madison held discussions pertaining to political and social issues, including slavery and religious freedom. Auguste Levasseur, French diplomat and Lafayette’s secretary, noted that Lafayette “never missed an opportunity to defend the right which all men without exception have to liberty…” On November 19, 1824, Lafayette and Madison attended a reception and banquet at Orange Court House. The next day, Lafayette continued his tour to Fredericksburg, Virginia.

The following year, General Lafayette returned to Montpelier on August 21, 1825 for a brief visit. The next morning, Lafayette departed for engagements at the court houses in Orange and Culpepper.