Program

Lafayette Trail

Subject

Event, People

Location

14 Elm St, Biddeford, ME 04005, USA

Lat/Long

43.498198341619, -70.453019120156

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 24,1825, General Lafayette visited Biddeford, Maine and overnighted there while on his journey to Portland and once again upon his return south. The July 12, 1825 edition of the Weekly Eastern Argus made mention of the visits:

The General spent the night and breakfasted at Captain Spring’s, where he was entertained in a manner that reflects much credit on its hospitable owner and spoke well of the taste and elegance of those who presided at the board.

The article continues:

On Sunday morning he returned from Portland and again took breakfast at Capt. Spring’s – tarried a half hour at Col. Emery’s, and attended Divine service at the Rev. Mr. Tracy’s meeting-house in Biddeford.