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 A Nationwide Call to Action
April 11 – 22, 2025 in Virginia April 18, 2025 across the nation Two Lights for Tomorrow is a nationwide initiative to commence the celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States of America. The famous ride of Paul Revere occurred overnight on April 18 – 19, 1775. Two Lights for Tomorrow originated out of multi-state collaboration at A Common Cause to All in Williamsburg and uses the imagery of that shining light 250 years ago as a uniting call to action today for our fellow citizens, no matter where they are, to commemorate and remind ourselves that our history is about working together for a better tomorrow. At its heart it is a call across the country, in private homes, local communities, and statehouses alike, for two lights to be displayed to remind us all of the importance to come together to form a more perfect union. How to ParticipateEveryone can participate! All you have to do is display two lights in your homes, at your visitor centers, your cultural, historical, and community sites, and in your government buildings in April 2025 to raise awareness and draw attention to and commemorate the beginning of our constant endeavor as a nation to work together for a better tomorrow! Learn more at https://va250.org/two-lights/ BY W. ROBERT KELLY, JR. GUEST COLUMNIST As published in the Suffolk News Herald  On Feb. 24, 2015, the Virginia General Assembly passed House Joint Resolution 797, “Designating March 14, in 2015, and in each succeeding year, as a Day of Honor for the Marquis de Lafayette in Virginia.” This year marks the 10th anniversary of Virginia Lafayette Day and it falls within
the Lafayette bicentennial, a nationwide series of more than 250 educational programs under the direction of the American Friends of Lafayette (AFL). Lafayette Day, March 14, will be commemorated with a wreath laying at 10 a.m. in the rotunda of the Virginia State Capitol, in front of Jean-Antoine Houdon’s Lafayette bust. All are welcome. As vice president of the 1,500-member AFL I am often asked, “Why is commemorating the bicentennial of Lafayette’s return to America, as ‘guest of the nation, so important?” This question may be answered by simply looking at the connections between what is taking place in our country today and the events of 1824-1825: in those days, the U.S. was in the throes of a contentious national presidential election won by John Quincy Adams. Our country was divided and in turmoil. At that time President James Monroe thought that if he invited Lafayette, the last surviving major general of the American Revolution, it might foster unity and renew patriotism among our citizens, especially as the nation approached the 50th anniversary of its independence. Today in our nation, like 200 years ago, we persevered through a tough election and experienced a peaceful transition of power, yet we remain a divided country. We are approaching a milestone anniversary of independence — 250 years. We continue to debate the importance of alliances, and still grapple with the meaning of “freedom and liberty for all.” We have come a long way, but we still have much work to do. Now more than ever, we need to know our history and teach our history — our full history. Throughout his life, Lafayette strongly supported Enlightenment principles: human rights for all, religious freedom, Native American rights, equality for women and freedom of the press. He was a leading abolitionist of his time and always fought for liberty, equality and freedom. This great man’s legacy has also come to symbolize the 1778 alliance between France and the United States. This Franco-American alliance led directly to the victory at Yorktown. Our two countries have remained at one another’s side for almost 250 years. Lafayette’s final trip to America lasted from August 1824 to September 1825. He visited all the then 24 states and was the first foreign dignitary to address a joint session of Congress. Traveling an estimated 6,000 miles, he was hosted by countless cities and towns, and spent roughly two months in Virginia, more time than any other state in the nation. Locally, he visited Norfolk, Portsmouth, Fort Monroe, Williamsburg, Yorktown, Richmond and Suffolk. Lafayette met with former Presidents John Adams, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, and Presidents James Monroe and John Quincy Adams. To celebrate the bicentennial, the AFL has organized a 13-month, 24-state, 250-event commemoration. Educational programming began in New York in August and will continue through September. We have already brought history to life for tens of thousands of Americans through reenactments, school outreach, traveling exhibits, bicentennial wine and beer and free public programs. That included events in Williamsburg and Yorktown, where the French Air & Space Force sent three airplanes and more than 50 personnel to provide ceremonial flyovers. It was an amazing sight to see, feel, and hear. We have events planned throughout 2025 that will take place as far south as New Orleans, as far west as St. Louis, and as far north as Maine. Now more than ever we need Lafayette, someone whose legacy and philosophy inspires us to be better — to be welcoming, inclusive, civil and to once again strive for equality and freedom for all people. These are the reasons that Lafayette and this bicentennial are important. It is my hope that you will join us in Richmond on March 14. Vive Lafayette! Vive La France! God bless America! W. Robert Kelly, Jr. is the vice president of the American Friends of Lafayette, director of the Gloucester Museum of History, president of the Fort Monroe Historical Society, president of the Peninsula Museums Forum, former Casemate Museum historian and a resident of Fort Monroe. Learn more at Lafayette200.org. SUFFOLK, VA (February 21, 2025) Due to the ongoing impact of the recent snowfall, the Lafayette Somerton Reception scheduled for Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at the Washington Smith Ordinary in Whaleyville, has been cancelled. SUFFOLK WELCOMES LAFAYETTE! A LIVING HISTORY EVENT CANCELLED SUFFOLK, VA (February 18, 2025) Due to impending inclement weather, Suffolk Welcomes Lafayette! A Living History Event scheduled for Sunday, February 23, 2025, at the Suffolk Visitor Center Pavilion, has been cancelled. Check back for updates.
 SUFFOLK, VA (January 15, 2025) Suffolk Tourism and the Suffolk VA 250 Committee, in cooperation with the American Friends of Lafayette (AFL), will commemorate Major General Lafayette’s American Farewell Tour through the United States, and more specifically Suffolk, February 24 – 26, 2025. Since August 2024, cities and towns throughout the United States have been commemorating the Bicentennial of Lafayette’s return to America as the “Guest of the Nation.” In total, more than 200 events will trace Lafayette’s footsteps on his 13-month, 6,000-mile tour of America during 1824 and 1825, including several activities and exhibits happening in Suffolk. Additional event partners include Constantia Chapter—Daughters of the American Revolution, Riddick’s Folly House Museum, Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, Suffolk Public Library, and the Suffolk Nansemond Historical Society. About Lafayette’s 1824-25 Farewell Tour According to historians and AFL members, Frank Womble, retired Army lieutenant colonel, and Gloria Womble, the America 250 chair of Constantia Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution . . . “Lafayette’s return visit came at a difficult time in U. S. history. In 1824, the United States was in the throes of a very contentious Presidential election. Our country was divided and in turmoil. There were few living veterans from the Revolutionary War, and the “Spirit of ’76” that carried them through the war had faded as the nation expanded westward. President James Monroe was inspired to invite the last living American Major General from the Revolutionary War to return to help celebrate the nation’s upcoming 50th anniversary and reignite patriotism. Upon his return to the United States, Lafayette was welcomed with unprecedented universal affection and gratitude. What began as a simple plan to visit the major cities turned into a triumphal tour of all 24 states when the Southern and Western states clamored for a visit from Lafayette as well.” SUFFOLK’S LAFAYETTE EVENTS & EXHIBITS: Saturday, January 18, 2025 “SUSANNA’S MIDNIGHT RIDE: THE GIRL WHO WON THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR” Presentation by author, Libby McNamee Award-winning author Libby McNamee will discuss her book, Susanna's Midnight Ride: The Girl Who Won the Revolutionary War. Almost five years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the American Revolution hung in the balance. In late May 1781, General Cornwallis invaded City Point, Virginia, and quartered his army there. As 16-year-old Susanna Bolling served the British general and his officers’ dinner, she overheard their plans to capture General Lafayette and crush the American rebellion once and for all. Under the cover of darkness, she snuck out of her house through a secret underground tunnel and canoed downriver. Then she grabbed a neighbor’s horse and rode ten miles to warn Lafayette. But would she make it back home by sunrise without detection? Her book is based on the TRUE story of this local heroine. (Named as #1 In Juvenile Fiction, by the 2020 Independent Publisher Book Awards and the 2020 Pinnacle Book Awards; Finalist In Historical Fiction in the 2020 Best Book Awards.)
Through January 22, 2025 LAFAYETTE RETURNS TO SUFFOLK EXHIBIT The Marquis de Lafayette's return to the United States is depicted in a series of panels describing the triumphal return of this famous hero of the American Revolution and friend of George Washington to the United States in 1824 and 1825. Learn about Lafayette's enduring legacy, his place in history as a human rights activist and why he remains important to Americans today.
North Suffolk Library, 2000 Bennetts Creek Park Road. 757.514.7150. Free and open to the public. On view, January 23 – March 1, 2025 “CELEBRATE LAFAYETTE: SOLDIER, STATESMAN, CHAMPION OF HUMAN RIGHTS.” The exhibit highlights memorabilia from the Farewell Tour and other vintage items on loan from American Friends of Lafayette (AFL) member, Bill Cole. The AFL’s traveling panels and a detailed map of the Farewell Tour route through the 24 states that Lafayette visited will also be on display. The Opening Reception will include French appetizers and three Lafayette wines from the Williamsburg Winery.
Free and open to the public. Thursday, February 6, 2025 LECTURE: “LAFAYETTE AND THE SOUVENIR INDUSTRY” Speaker: Julie Dunn, Hill House Museum Julie Dunn, local researcher and member of Portsmouth’s Hill House Museum Board, will hold a lecture on decorations that were prominent during Lafayette’s 1825 visit, such as signs, luminaries, and transparencies. She will also address how Lafayette’s visit started the souvenir industry in the United States.
Free and open to the public. Wednesday, February 12, 2025 STUDENT MATINEE FOR GRADES 5 TO 8: “BLACK PATRIOT: A VISIT WITH JAMES FAYETTE” Interpreter Steven Alexander will lead children Grades 5 - 8 on a journey through the life of a true American hero, double agent James Fayette. James’ relationship with Gen. Lafayette is highlighted as he tells of the unlikely friendship of two patriots, one of noble birth and the other born enslaved.
Thursday, February 13, 2025 LECTURE: "LAFAYETTE: SOLDIER, STATESMAN, CHAMPION OF HUMAN RIGHTS" Speaker: Dr. Natasha Naujoks, Chrysler Museum of Art Dr. Natasha Naujoks, Public Engagement and Learning Assistant at Norfolk’s Chrysler Museum of Art, addresses Lafayette’s legacy and his impact on the history of the United States and France.
Free and open to the public. Sunday, February 23, 2025 SUFFOLK WELCOMES LAFAYETTE! A LIVING HISTORY EVENT This family-friendly event will include costumed interpreters that will represent veterans of the American Revolution and their families, and present aspects of life in camp. Lafayette, portrayed by Mark Schneider of Colonial Williamsburg, will arrive in person by carriage.
Free and open to the public. Tuesday, February 25, 2025 LAFAYETTE BICENTENNIAL BANQUET The Lafayette Bicentennial Banquet will echo the banquet at which Lafayette was entertained on February 25, 1825. Lafayette, portrayed by Colonial Williamsburg's Mark Schneider, will be the guest of honor. He will be formally welcomed during the opening reception, where the Mayor of Suffolk's Proclamation of Lafayette Week will be read. The dinner begins with the same thirteen toasts given 200 years ago. “Music of the Regiment” will perform with the instruments and repertoire that Lafayette himself knew. AFL Vice President Robert Kelly, Director of the Gloucester Museum of History, will deliver the keynote address. This is a unique opportunity to relive history, celebrate the enduring friendship between France and the United States, and meet Lafayette. Period dress or cocktail/business attire suggested. Sponsored by TowneBank.
Wednesday, February 26, 2025 RECEPTION: LAFAYETTE MEETS THE MURFREESBORO, NORTH CAROLINA, COMMITTEE IN SOMERTON General Lafayette will be welcomed to Historic Somerton with a free reception on the grounds of the Washington Smith Ordinary, the only building still standing in Suffolk where he dined in 1825. Lafayette and his entourage will be escorted to the site by a bagpiper.
To learn more about upcoming Suffolk VA 250 events and activities, visit SuffolkVa250.com. Like and follow facebook.com/SuffolkVaLafayetteBicentennialCelebration. Additional Suffolk events and information available at VisitSuffolkVa.com. Please contact the Suffolk Visitor Center at 757.514.4130 with any questions. Opening Night Reception, Lafayette Memorabilia Display Thursday, January 23, 2025, 5:30 – 7:00 pm Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, 110 West Finney Avenue, Suffolk, VA Registration website: https://friendsoflafayette.wildapricot.org/event-5946871
Suffolk Welcomes Lafayette! |
| Sunday, February 23, 2025, 1:00 – 4:00 pm Suffolk Visitor Center 524 North Main Street, Suffolk, VA Registration website: https://friendsoflafayette.wildapricot.org/event-594677 The Suffolk Visitor Center will welcome General Lafayette at the former site of the Nansemond County Courthouse, where he arrived in 1825. Lafayette will travel down Main Street in a horse-drawn carriage along the same route into town that he traveled 200 years ago. The Southside Community Band will entertain with music that Lafayette knew and loved. The Mayor or his representative will formally welcome Lafayette and read the proclamation of Lafayette Days in Suffolk and Somerton. Lafayette will recall the adventures of his encampment at Sleepy Hole at the beginning of the Virginia Campaign in March 1781. The 7th Virginia and the Youth Virginia Regiment will demonstrate what life was like for the militia during the American Revolution. This free, family-friendly event includes activities for children too, both under the pavilion and next door at Riddick’s Folly House Museum. |   |
Lafayette Bicentennial Banquet
Tuesday, February 25, 2025, 6:00 – 9:00 pm
Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk Riverfront, 100 East Constance Road, Suffolk, VA
Registration Website: https://friendsoflafayette.wildapricot.org/event-5936653
Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk Riverfront, 100 East Constance Road, Suffolk, VA
Registration Website: https://friendsoflafayette.wildapricot.org/event-5936653
Enjoy a festive evening at the Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk Riverfront as we commemorate the return of General Lafayette to Suffolk. This event will echo the banquet at which Lafayette was entertained on February 25, 1825. Lafayette, portrayed by Colonial Williamsburg's Mark Schneider, will be the guest of honor. He will be formally welcomed during the opening reception, where the Mayor of Suffolk's Proclamation of Lafayette Days will be read. The dinner begins with the same thirteen toasts given 200 years ago! Music of the Regiment will perform with the instruments and repertoire that Lafayette himself knew. American Friends of Lafayette Vice President Robert Kelly, Director of the Gloucester Museum of History, will deliver the keynote address. Don't miss this unique opportunity to relive history, celebrate the enduring friendship between France and the United States, and meet Lafayette. Attendees are kindly requested to wear period dress or cocktail/business attire. The presenting sponsor for the evening is TowneBank. Tickets are $75 each, available by cash or check at the Suffolk Visitor Center or the website above.
Lafayette Meets the Murfreesboro, NC Committee in Somerton
Wednesday, February 26, 11:00 am – noon
8442 Arthur Drive, Suffolk, VA
Registration Website: https://friendsoflafayette.wildapricot.org/event-594686
8442 Arthur Drive, Suffolk, VA
Registration Website: https://friendsoflafayette.wildapricot.org/event-594686
 | General Lafayette will be welcomed to Historic Somerton with a free reception on the grounds of the Washington Smith Ordinary, the only building still standing in Suffolk where he dined in 1825. Lafayette and his entourage will be escorted to the site by a bagpiper. A city representative will formally welcome Lafayette and read the Mayor’s proclamation of Lafayette Days in Suffolk and Somerton. Lafayette will share stories about his return to the United |
States, his recent welcome in the town of Suffolk, and the significance of the southern portion of the Farewell Tour. Lafayette will be introduced to members of the Committee of Arrangements from Murfreesboro, North Carolina, just as he was in 1825. Local ladies will provide refreshments to the attendees, who will have the opportunity to meet Lafayette. As Lafayette and his escorts depart for Murfreesboro, the bagpiper will play “Auld Lang Syne.”
Lafayette Memorabilia Display, Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts. Thursday, January 23, 2025 to Saturday, March 1, 2025, with an opening night reception on January 23 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The reception will include French appetizers and three Lafayette wines from the Williamsburg Winery. This exhibit, titled “Celebrate Lafayette: Soldier, Statesman, Champion of Human Rights,” includes memorabilia from the Farewell Tour. The American Friends of Lafayette’s (AFL) six traveling panels and a detailed map of the Farewell Tour route through the 24 states that Lafayette visited will also be on display. The free, five-week exhibit will include an exhibit guide and weekly speakers or videos on Thursday nights. Guests will be encouraged to wear timeline attire (1777 – 1825).
Welcome Ceremony, Suffolk Visitor Center and Riddick’s Folly. Sunday, February 23, 2025, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. This family-friendly event, free and open to the public, will include costumed interpreters that will represent veterans of the American Revolution and their families, and present aspects of life in camp. Lafayette, portrayed by Mark Schneider of Colonial Williamsburg, will arrive in person by carriage. Lafayette will be formally welcomed, give an appropriate response, and will address attendees about his experiences in Suffolk during the American Revolution. The day will be portrayed as if it is 1825. The Mayor of Suffolk’s proclamation will be read announcing Lafayette Days in Suffolk and Somerton, February 23 to February 26. A community band will play music that was played for Lafayette. Guests will be encouraged to wear timeline attire (1777 – 1825).
Lafayette Banquet, Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk Riverfront. Tuesday, February 25, 2025, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. This ticketed event will echo the banquet at which Lafayette was entertained on February 25, 1825. The evening will be portrayed as if it is 1825. During the reception, the Mayor’s Proclamation of Lafayette Days will be read, Lafayette (Mark Schneider) will be welcomed, and he will give an appropriate response. Once the guests are seated in the ballroom, the dinner will begin with the 13 original toasts given to Lafayette 200 years ago. During dinner, guests will be entertained with period music. After dinner, local historian and AFL Vice President, Robert Kelly, will address Lafayette’s role in the American Revolution, the significance of the Farewell Tour, where Lafayette has visited since arriving in the United States in August 1824, and where he is going after he leaves Suffolk. Lafayette will provide an appropriate response. Guests will be encouraged to wear timeline attire (1777 – 1825).
Reception, Washington Smith Ordinary, Somerton. Wednesday, February 26, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Lafayette (Mark Schneider) will be welcomed at the only building still standing in Suffolk that he visited 200 years ago. The day will be portrayed as if it is 1825. He will be formally introduced to the Murfreesboro, North Carolina delegation and will provide an appropriate response. An informal reception will be hosted by Suffolk’s Constantia Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution. Guests will be encouraged to wear timeline attire (1777 – 1825).
Welcome Ceremony, Suffolk Visitor Center and Riddick’s Folly. Sunday, February 23, 2025, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. This family-friendly event, free and open to the public, will include costumed interpreters that will represent veterans of the American Revolution and their families, and present aspects of life in camp. Lafayette, portrayed by Mark Schneider of Colonial Williamsburg, will arrive in person by carriage. Lafayette will be formally welcomed, give an appropriate response, and will address attendees about his experiences in Suffolk during the American Revolution. The day will be portrayed as if it is 1825. The Mayor of Suffolk’s proclamation will be read announcing Lafayette Days in Suffolk and Somerton, February 23 to February 26. A community band will play music that was played for Lafayette. Guests will be encouraged to wear timeline attire (1777 – 1825).
Lafayette Banquet, Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk Riverfront. Tuesday, February 25, 2025, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. This ticketed event will echo the banquet at which Lafayette was entertained on February 25, 1825. The evening will be portrayed as if it is 1825. During the reception, the Mayor’s Proclamation of Lafayette Days will be read, Lafayette (Mark Schneider) will be welcomed, and he will give an appropriate response. Once the guests are seated in the ballroom, the dinner will begin with the 13 original toasts given to Lafayette 200 years ago. During dinner, guests will be entertained with period music. After dinner, local historian and AFL Vice President, Robert Kelly, will address Lafayette’s role in the American Revolution, the significance of the Farewell Tour, where Lafayette has visited since arriving in the United States in August 1824, and where he is going after he leaves Suffolk. Lafayette will provide an appropriate response. Guests will be encouraged to wear timeline attire (1777 – 1825).
Reception, Washington Smith Ordinary, Somerton. Wednesday, February 26, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Lafayette (Mark Schneider) will be welcomed at the only building still standing in Suffolk that he visited 200 years ago. The day will be portrayed as if it is 1825. He will be formally introduced to the Murfreesboro, North Carolina delegation and will provide an appropriate response. An informal reception will be hosted by Suffolk’s Constantia Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution. Guests will be encouraged to wear timeline attire (1777 – 1825).
Photo by Kat Smith, courtesy American Friends of Lafayette
Above: Lafayette waves the French flag in front of the Statue of Liberty
before stepping foot on American soil in New York City for the first time in 200 years.
Above: Lafayette waves the French flag in front of the Statue of Liberty
before stepping foot on American soil in New York City for the first time in 200 years.
By Frank and Gloria Womble
The American Friends of Lafayette (AFL) began its celebration of the bicentennial of Lafayette’s Farewell Tour on August 15 with four days of activities in New York City and surroundings. We were honored to be joined by Lafayette descendants Virginie Bureaux de Pusy-Dumottier de Lafayette and her daughters, Heloise and Adelaide Barbier-Dumottier de Lafayette, as we welcomed General Lafayette, portrayed by Colonial Williamburg’s Mark Schneider, at a dinner on Staten Island. Over the next 13 months, Lafayette will be feted in cities large and small, just as he was in 1824 and 1825.
On August 16, Lafayette arrived to an enthusiastic welcome at Brookfield Place in lower Manhattan. The Cadets Lafayette led the procession to a crowd of cheering people, where he was greeted by Damian Laban, Deputy Counsel General of France in New York City. Lafayette reviewed a detachment of New York Army National Guard soldiers and was then escorted down Broadway in a horseless carriage. The procession ended at Evacuation Plaza, named for the day in 1783 when the last British garrison left the city. There the American and French flags were raised. The AFL President Alan Hoffman read a proclamation signed by New York City Mayor, Eric Adams.
Next we visited City Hall, where Lafayette received an official welcome, and viewed the life-sized portraits of Lafayette, by Samuel F. B. Morse, and George Washington, by John Trumbull. Afterwards, we visited the nearby National Museum of the American Indian, where Ray Halbritter, a representative of the Oneida Nation, gave a presentation on Lafayette and the Oneida. The day concluded with a special Lafayette exhibit and dinner at Fraunces Tavern.
The morning of August 17th featured a Living History event at South Street Seaport with a talk on the French ship, L'Hermione, aboard the tall ship Wavertree. Later we enjoyed a delightful lunch and presentation at the Park Avenue Armory, followed by book signings. Next there was a visit to L'Alliance New York Florence Gould Hall Theater, where we heard the music of African-American composer, Francis Johnson. A lively question and answer session featured New York Times bestselling author Mike Duncan. The evening culminated with a reception hosted at the French Consulate.
Mighty rains off the coast on August 18 failed to dampen the enthusiasm. We began the day at Bartow Pell Mansion, followed by a visit to St. Paul’s Church, where Lafayette was warmly greeted by fellow Masons. Our journey continued to Westchester County, with stops in New Rochelle, Mamaroneck, and Rye. Lafayette was given the key to the city in New Rochelle, which he compared to his gift to George Washington of the key to the Bastille. He was greeted by an outpouring of bell ringing, singing, and honors bestowed on him. Mamaroneck and Rye issued formal proclamations in Lafayette’s honor and celebrated with joyous salutes and costumed reenactors.
Looking ahead to the next two weeks, Lafayette will travel throughout eastern Massachusetts and briefly visit the New Hampshire seacoast. On September 6, he will celebrate his 67th birthday in Weathersfield, Connecticut. On September 7, AFL will host a daylong symposium, “Lafayette and the Enduring Struggle for Human Rights and Democratic Governments,” at Fairfield University in Connecticut. For more details, see Lafayette200.org.
Flashback: An article published in the American Beacon on August 30, 1824, reported that “The Citizens and ‘Columbians’ of Suffolk, hearing the very pleasing and anxiously expected intelligence of the arrival of Gen. La Fayette,” met on August 21 with the intent of joining the October 19 celebrations in Yorktown. Joseph Prentiss, John Murdaugh, Richard D. Webb, Nathaniel D. Wright, and Thomas G. Benton were “appointed a committee to make suitable arrangements.”
The American Friends of Lafayette is partnering with Suffolk 250, the Constantia Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, and Riddick’s Folly to commemorate the Bicentennial of Lafayette’s Farewell Tour: “Celebrate Lafayette: Soldier, Statesman, Champion of Human Rights,” a memorabilia exhibit from January 23 to March 1 at the Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts; Lafayette’s arrival on February 23 at the Suffolk Visitor Center/Riddick’s Folly; a banquet on February 25 at the Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk Riverfront; and a reception on February 26 at the Washington Smith Ordinary in Historic Somerton.
The American Friends of Lafayette (AFL) began its celebration of the bicentennial of Lafayette’s Farewell Tour on August 15 with four days of activities in New York City and surroundings. We were honored to be joined by Lafayette descendants Virginie Bureaux de Pusy-Dumottier de Lafayette and her daughters, Heloise and Adelaide Barbier-Dumottier de Lafayette, as we welcomed General Lafayette, portrayed by Colonial Williamburg’s Mark Schneider, at a dinner on Staten Island. Over the next 13 months, Lafayette will be feted in cities large and small, just as he was in 1824 and 1825.
On August 16, Lafayette arrived to an enthusiastic welcome at Brookfield Place in lower Manhattan. The Cadets Lafayette led the procession to a crowd of cheering people, where he was greeted by Damian Laban, Deputy Counsel General of France in New York City. Lafayette reviewed a detachment of New York Army National Guard soldiers and was then escorted down Broadway in a horseless carriage. The procession ended at Evacuation Plaza, named for the day in 1783 when the last British garrison left the city. There the American and French flags were raised. The AFL President Alan Hoffman read a proclamation signed by New York City Mayor, Eric Adams.
Next we visited City Hall, where Lafayette received an official welcome, and viewed the life-sized portraits of Lafayette, by Samuel F. B. Morse, and George Washington, by John Trumbull. Afterwards, we visited the nearby National Museum of the American Indian, where Ray Halbritter, a representative of the Oneida Nation, gave a presentation on Lafayette and the Oneida. The day concluded with a special Lafayette exhibit and dinner at Fraunces Tavern.
The morning of August 17th featured a Living History event at South Street Seaport with a talk on the French ship, L'Hermione, aboard the tall ship Wavertree. Later we enjoyed a delightful lunch and presentation at the Park Avenue Armory, followed by book signings. Next there was a visit to L'Alliance New York Florence Gould Hall Theater, where we heard the music of African-American composer, Francis Johnson. A lively question and answer session featured New York Times bestselling author Mike Duncan. The evening culminated with a reception hosted at the French Consulate.
Mighty rains off the coast on August 18 failed to dampen the enthusiasm. We began the day at Bartow Pell Mansion, followed by a visit to St. Paul’s Church, where Lafayette was warmly greeted by fellow Masons. Our journey continued to Westchester County, with stops in New Rochelle, Mamaroneck, and Rye. Lafayette was given the key to the city in New Rochelle, which he compared to his gift to George Washington of the key to the Bastille. He was greeted by an outpouring of bell ringing, singing, and honors bestowed on him. Mamaroneck and Rye issued formal proclamations in Lafayette’s honor and celebrated with joyous salutes and costumed reenactors.
Looking ahead to the next two weeks, Lafayette will travel throughout eastern Massachusetts and briefly visit the New Hampshire seacoast. On September 6, he will celebrate his 67th birthday in Weathersfield, Connecticut. On September 7, AFL will host a daylong symposium, “Lafayette and the Enduring Struggle for Human Rights and Democratic Governments,” at Fairfield University in Connecticut. For more details, see Lafayette200.org.
Flashback: An article published in the American Beacon on August 30, 1824, reported that “The Citizens and ‘Columbians’ of Suffolk, hearing the very pleasing and anxiously expected intelligence of the arrival of Gen. La Fayette,” met on August 21 with the intent of joining the October 19 celebrations in Yorktown. Joseph Prentiss, John Murdaugh, Richard D. Webb, Nathaniel D. Wright, and Thomas G. Benton were “appointed a committee to make suitable arrangements.”
The American Friends of Lafayette is partnering with Suffolk 250, the Constantia Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, and Riddick’s Folly to commemorate the Bicentennial of Lafayette’s Farewell Tour: “Celebrate Lafayette: Soldier, Statesman, Champion of Human Rights,” a memorabilia exhibit from January 23 to March 1 at the Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts; Lafayette’s arrival on February 23 at the Suffolk Visitor Center/Riddick’s Folly; a banquet on February 25 at the Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk Riverfront; and a reception on February 26 at the Washington Smith Ordinary in Historic Somerton.
Free & open to the public. Produced by Suffolk Parks & Recreation.
www.suffolkparksandrec.com
www.suffolkparksandrec.com
Over 500 of you tuned in or attended last night's lecture with AFL President Alan Hoffman and AFL Executive Director Chuck Schwam at the Anderson House aka the American Revolution Institute in Washington, DC.
In 1824, the Marquis de Lafayette embarked on a tour of the United States, returning for a final time to the country he helped establish and whose democratic experiment he saw as a model for the rest of the world. During his thirteen-month tour, he visited all twenty-four states of the union, where he was celebrated with processions, banquets and receptions, worship services, and visits to important sites. There was an excellent preview of the commemorative events planned to celebrate its bicentennial.
This lecture accompanies the exhibition, Fete Lafayette: A French Hero’s Tour of the American Republic, on view from March 2 through December 31, 2024.
- The American Friends of Lafayette
In 1824, the Marquis de Lafayette embarked on a tour of the United States, returning for a final time to the country he helped establish and whose democratic experiment he saw as a model for the rest of the world. During his thirteen-month tour, he visited all twenty-four states of the union, where he was celebrated with processions, banquets and receptions, worship services, and visits to important sites. There was an excellent preview of the commemorative events planned to celebrate its bicentennial.
This lecture accompanies the exhibition, Fete Lafayette: A French Hero’s Tour of the American Republic, on view from March 2 through December 31, 2024.
- The American Friends of Lafayette
Feel free to stop by the Suffolk Visitor Center for your own copy.
524 North Main Street, Suffolk, VA 23434 - open daily 9am - 5pm.
757.514.4130
524 North Main Street, Suffolk, VA 23434 - open daily 9am - 5pm.
757.514.4130
Meeting attendees:
Fred Taylor, Richard Todd, Lawrence Todd, Sue Woodward, Brittany Waller, Kevin Hughes, Gloria Womble, Lee King, Nina Schumacher, Olivia Crawley, Mark Furlo, Andrea Parodi, Carolyn White, Joleen Neighbours, Kelly Hengler, Mary Hill, Danielle Jonigan, Theresa Earles.
Meeting Details:
Frank Womble presented a comprehensive PowerPoint detailing the American Friends of Lafayette's Bicentennial of Lafayette's Farewell Tour, 2024-25.
Gloria Womble updated the committee regarding the DAR Constantia Chapter's upcoming events.
The committee brainstormed a variety of programs to consider:
Next meeting TBA.
Fred Taylor, Richard Todd, Lawrence Todd, Sue Woodward, Brittany Waller, Kevin Hughes, Gloria Womble, Lee King, Nina Schumacher, Olivia Crawley, Mark Furlo, Andrea Parodi, Carolyn White, Joleen Neighbours, Kelly Hengler, Mary Hill, Danielle Jonigan, Theresa Earles.
Meeting Details:
Frank Womble presented a comprehensive PowerPoint detailing the American Friends of Lafayette's Bicentennial of Lafayette's Farewell Tour, 2024-25.
Gloria Womble updated the committee regarding the DAR Constantia Chapter's upcoming events.
The committee brainstormed a variety of programs to consider:
- Glebe Church - June 2025 living history event
- Plein Air Painting event that "Connects Art & History."
- Painting subjects focus on Suffolk's architecture, waterfront, and other historically significant sites.
- To include a wet paint sale and/or exhibit.
- Year-long painting/art project or competition with online judging and exhibiting component.
- Essay Contest - Suffolk students reflect on the American Revolution and the effects it had on the people, the land, the fabric of Suffolk.
- K - 12 workshops - living history - correlating to the American Revolution SOLs
- Mobile Museum will be requested to include in a future event
- Suffolk, VA 250 display for use at events such as Taste of Suffolk Downtown Street Festival and Suffolk Peanut Fest.
- Great American Picnic? Enhanced Fireworks for 2026 - in conjunction with Stars & Stripes Spectacular
Next meeting TBA.
Offered February 10, 2015
Designating March 14, in 2015 and in each succeeding year, as a Day of Honor for the Marquis de Lafayette in Virginia.
Patrons: William J. Howell, Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates, and David E. Yancey, Delegate from Newport News
WHEREAS, on March 14, 1781, 23-year-old Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, arrived in Yorktown to start a military campaign against the British that would culminate in their defeat on October 19, 1781; and
WHEREAS, outnumbered and poorly supplied, Lafayette strove to improve the circumstances and numbers of his troops, often pledging his own funds to secure shoes and clothing for his soldiers, not only in this Virginia campaign, but also during the entire American Revolution, including outfitting the French frigate Hermione to bring him to America; and
WHEREAS, in Lafayette's pursuit of British forces during the spring, summer, and autumn of 1781, he adopted a strategy of limited engagement to better preserve his forces, similar to the strategy used by General George Washington up to that point; and
WHEREAS, it was this strategy that led to the success at Yorktown, where and when French ships under Admiral de Grasse, French forces under General Rochambeau, and American forces under General Washington and Lafayette united and defeated British forces under General Cornwallis; and
WHEREAS, Lafayette had been instrumental in convincing Louis XVI, King of France, to support the American colonies, directly contributing to the victory at Yorktown; and
WHEREAS, in anticipation of the arrival of the French frigate Hermione at Yorktown on June 5 -7, 2015, all Virginians, especially its students, are encouraged to reflect on and learn from Lafayette's example of heroism, courage, and commitment to freedom and democracy; and
WHEREAS, Lafayette loved America so much that he was buried in Paris under soil from Boston's Bunker Hill, and for his accomplishments in the service to both France and the United States, he is known as The Hero of Two Worlds; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly designate March 14, in 2015 and in each succeeding year, as a Day of Honor for the Marquis de Lafayette in Virginia; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates transmit a copy of this resolution to the Friends of Hermione-Lafayette in America so that members of the organization may be apprised of the sense of the General Assembly of Virginia in this matter; and, be it
RESOLVED FINALLY, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates post the designation of this day on the General Assembly's website.
WHEREAS, on March 14, 1781, 23-year-old Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, arrived in Yorktown to start a military campaign against the British that would culminate in their defeat on October 19, 1781; and
WHEREAS, outnumbered and poorly supplied, Lafayette strove to improve the circumstances and numbers of his troops, often pledging his own funds to secure shoes and clothing for his soldiers, not only in this Virginia campaign, but also during the entire American Revolution, including outfitting the French frigate Hermione to bring him to America; and
WHEREAS, in Lafayette's pursuit of British forces during the spring, summer, and autumn of 1781, he adopted a strategy of limited engagement to better preserve his forces, similar to the strategy used by General George Washington up to that point; and
WHEREAS, it was this strategy that led to the success at Yorktown, where and when French ships under Admiral de Grasse, French forces under General Rochambeau, and American forces under General Washington and Lafayette united and defeated British forces under General Cornwallis; and
WHEREAS, Lafayette had been instrumental in convincing Louis XVI, King of France, to support the American colonies, directly contributing to the victory at Yorktown; and
WHEREAS, in anticipation of the arrival of the French frigate Hermione at Yorktown on June 5 -7, 2015, all Virginians, especially its students, are encouraged to reflect on and learn from Lafayette's example of heroism, courage, and commitment to freedom and democracy; and
WHEREAS, Lafayette loved America so much that he was buried in Paris under soil from Boston's Bunker Hill, and for his accomplishments in the service to both France and the United States, he is known as The Hero of Two Worlds; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly designate March 14, in 2015 and in each succeeding year, as a Day of Honor for the Marquis de Lafayette in Virginia; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates transmit a copy of this resolution to the Friends of Hermione-Lafayette in America so that members of the organization may be apprised of the sense of the General Assembly of Virginia in this matter; and, be it
RESOLVED FINALLY, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates post the designation of this day on the General Assembly's website.
Attention Suffolk VA 250 Committee Members!
Our next committee meeting will be held Wednesday, March 13, 1:00-2:30pm,
in the City Council Conference Room at Suffolk City Hall. 442 West Washington Street, First Floor.
Program:
Our next committee meeting will be held Wednesday, March 13, 1:00-2:30pm,
in the City Council Conference Room at Suffolk City Hall. 442 West Washington Street, First Floor.
Program:
- Frank Womble, American Friends of Lafayette (AFL) | 2024-2025 Lafayette programs, events and exhibits
- Gloria Womble, Daughters of the American Revolution (and AFL) | Upcoming programs
- Open discussion regarding future program concepts.
“The Life and Legacy of The Marquis de Lafayette”
Suffolk Tourism Hosts Traveling Exhibit
SUFFOLK, VA (February 1, 2024) Suffolk Tourism is pleased to host the “The Life and Legacy of the Marquis De Lafayette,” an informational exhibit developed by The American Friends of Lafayette. On display at the Suffolk Visitor Center through March 15, 2024, the exhibit features six curated panels that convey integral stories of Lafayette’s life and legacy including his American Revolution participation, his critical role in cementing the Franco-American Alliance, and his lifelong passion for human rights. Lafayette’s return as “Guest of the Nation” in 1824-1825, and the efforts of the American Friends of Lafayette to commemorate this bicentennial in 2024-2025, is also highlighted. This exhibit strives to make Lafayette’s story more accessible and relevant to today’s citizens while bringing focus to the ongoing Virginia American Revolution 250 Commemoration. The Suffolk Visitor Center is located at 524 North Main Street in downtown Suffolk and is open daily 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. For questions, contact Suffolk Tourism at 757.514.4130 or email [email protected].
Find additional Lafayette and Virginia 250 American Revolution Commemoration information at lafayette200.org and va250.org, respectively.
Discover Suffolk events, attractions, accommodations, tours and dining establishments at VisitSuffolkVa.com or via social media at /visitsuffolkva. 757.514.4130
Find additional Lafayette and Virginia 250 American Revolution Commemoration information at lafayette200.org and va250.org, respectively.
Discover Suffolk events, attractions, accommodations, tours and dining establishments at VisitSuffolkVa.com or via social media at /visitsuffolkva. 757.514.4130