Program

Lafayette Trail

Subject

Event, People

Location

500 E Main St, Norfolk, VA 23510, USA

Lat/Long

36.845912584549, -76.288684594397

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 October 22,1824 General Lafayette arrived in Norfolk via the steamboat Petersburg. In anticipation of his arrival, a civic arch was erected for the occasion by Market Square on Main Street. Following a parade through the streets and banquet, General Lafayette overnighted at Mrs. Hansford’s boarding house.