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In 1824, the Marquise de Lafayette, the last surviving major general of the American Revolutionary War, returned to the United States on a Farewell Tour. America's favorite fighting Frenchman stopped in New London on August 22. He was welcomed here by a 24-gun Salute from Fort Trumbull!
Let's toast General Lafayette on the bicentennial of his sojourn in our town.
Our early evening toast will feature special Lafayette Bicentennial wines from Virginia, cheese & hors d'oeuvres, followed by a concert of Revolutionary songs -- a couple of them celebrating the general -- performed by Richard Franklin Donohue on the harpsichord.
Attendees are encouraged to wear white as was customary during Lafayettes farewell tour of 1824.
Tickets are $40, $35 for NLMS members. Space is limited. Sign up today!
from the Lafayette200.org website:
August 16, 2024 will see the kick off a monumental Bicentennial celebration. The hundreds of events planned will trace Lafayettes footstep on the exact dates and in the exact order he followed on his tour of America as the Guest of the Nation between 1824 and 1825.
In 1824, the United States was in the throes of a very contentious national Presidential election. Our country was divided and in turmoil. President James Monroe thought it would be a good idea to bring back the last living American General from the Revolutionary War for a short tour of popular cities as a way to celebrate the nations 50th anniversary and reignite its patriotism. At the time, many U.S. citizens knew that Lafayette had been involved in other revolutions in Europe and South America. In fact, he had been imprisoned for over 5 years as a result of the French Revolution. During and after the American Revolution, Lafayette strongly supported human rights for all, especially religious freedom and equality for women. He was an abolitionist and always fought for Liberty, Equality, and Freedom. Upon his return to the United States, Lafayette was welcomed with universal affection and gratitude by Americans in all 24 states. Everyone enthusiastically embraced the last surviving general of the American Revolution.
His arrival in New York inspired four days and nights of continuous celebration --a response replicated during his visits to each of the other states. Everywhere were reported parades, balls, dinners, and other celebratory events hosted in Lafayettes honor. His three-month tour turned into 13 months as he was welcomed by all as the Nations Guest!. Indeed, Lafayette loved America and, without a doubt, Americans everywhere loved him right back!
Please join NLMS to toast the General le Marquis de Lafayette!
New London Maritime Society - local friendly authentic.
Telling the stories of New London's waterfront & preserving four historic maritime sites!
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| Thursday Aug 22, 2024 6:00 PM - Thursday Aug 22, 2024 8:00 PM | $35.00 - $40.00 |
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LocationCustom House Maritime Museum (View)
150 Bank Street
New London, CT 06320
United States
Categories
| Minimum Age: 6 |
| Kid Friendly: No |
| Dog Friendly: No |
| Non-Smoking: Yes! |
| Wheelchair Accessible: No |
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