Program

Lafayette Trail

Subject

Event, People, Site

Location

984 Norwich-New London Turnpike, Uncasville, CT 06382, USA

Lat/Long

41.451686613475, -72.107073795447

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 August 22, 1824, General Lafayette was enroute north from New London, CT, heading towards Norwich, CT. He had just dined at the home of Judge Elias Perkins in New London at 3pm, and word was sent ahead of his departure. An escort party of gentlemen was sent out from Norwich to meet Lafayette in Montville, CT. They escorted Lafayette, his son, his secretary, and committee members from New York City who were still travelling with him, all to Norwich, CT.