Marquis de Lafayette - The Guest of the Nation

It was in 1824/1825 that the Marquis de Lafayette returned to the United States. 200 Years later sites across the country celebrated this anniversary with programs commemorating his return visit. Lafayette was a long time champion of freedoms and personal rights, both in this country and his native France.

He had come to lend assistance in the American Revolution and become a General in the newly formed US at the age of 19. Always a favorite of George Washington, he was treated by Washington as a son.

Photos below from his visit to Jeffersonville, Indiana, Louisville, KY and Frankfort, KY.

Photos by Kathy Cummings

Original portrait of Lafayette.

At right is the program from Louisville/Jeffersonville for Monday, May 12, 2025.


Event Listing

Governor Joseph Desha portrayed by Ron Adkinson, Marquis de Lafayette portrayed by Michael Halbert and Kentucky Attorney General Solomon P. Sharp portrayed by Rod Smothers.

The 3rd United States Infantry Regiment's Continental Color Guard.

The 3rd United States Infantry Regiment's Fife and Drum Corps "Old Guard."

Saturday May 17, 2025

The Painted Stone Settlers Welcome the Marquis de Lafayette to Frankfort

Also on his travels (his party traveled across 6,000 miles during 13 months, covering 24 states and Washington City) Lafayette traveled to the state capital in Frankfort. He received a canon salute from the Painted Stone Settlers of Shelbyville, KY.

Lafayette had also visited Shelbyville on Tuesday May 13, 2025 where he received a 24 gun salute. 

Photos by Helen McKinney

 202nd Army Band of the Kentucky National Guard

Also on hand to greet the Marquis de Lafayette was a military presentation by the 202 Army Band. 

Pioneer Times

Pioneer Times USA

© Copyright 2021-2024   GRAPHIC ENTERPRISES
 All Rights Reserved