Program

Lafayette Trail

Subject

Event, People

Location

6 Meetinghouse Hill Rd, Sterling, MA 01564, USA

Lat/Long

42.437815614872, -71.760421134251

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 September 3, 1824, General Lafayette was welcomed to the Village of Sterling, MA. The September 8, 1824 edition of the Massachusetts Spy detailed his arrival:

At Sterling, Gen. La Fayette was received with every demonstration of joy. His approach to the village was hailed by 13 discharges of Artillery and the ringing of the bell. He was then escorted by two beautiful companions of Light Infantry under the command of Capt. Dana of Sterling, and Capt. Meriam of Princeton. The General was received at the entrance of the village, by the Selectmen of the town under a spacious arch fancifully decorated with evergreens and flowers.