Program

Lafayette Trail

Subject

Event, People

Location

650 Main St, Warrenton, GA 30828, USA

Lat/Long

33.406853758599, -82.662431334208

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 March 25, 1825, General Lafayette overnighted in Warrenton, GA while on his way to Milledgeville. The short stop was briefly mentioned in the March 30, 1825 edition of the Charleston Courier:

He [Lafayette] left Augusta on Friday morning, in a carriage and four, escorted by a detachment of cavalry, which would accompany him to Warrenton. Preparations have been made at that place and Sparta, for his reception.

Links

• The Lafayette Trail