President James Monroe invited the Marquis de Lafayette to visit the United States, his adopted country. Lafayette’s tour of all 24 states in 1824 and 1825 drew large crowds and sparked a renewal of patriotism. During the American Revolution, Lafayette’s intense advocacy of the American cause had convinced French King Louis XVI to send troops and ships, which proved crucial to the American victory at Yorktown.
On September 3, 1824, General Lafayette arrived in Charlton, Massachusetts, by carriage, where he met with veterans and citizens. The September 22, 1824, edition of the Massachusetts Spy recounted Lafayette’s response to the warm reception organized for him at Wilson’s Coffee House (site of the former Ryder Tavern). "He told the people attending, "the repeated expressions of kindness and esteem which I have received since my arrival in this country render me unable to express the high delight with which I behold the grateful sensibility of the American people." (William G. Pomeroy Foundation)
Learn about Revolutionary War Combat Strategy. Watch the Revolutionary War Animated Map. For a summary, read An Overview of the American Revolution.
What's Nearby
Explore more of The Liberty Trail by visiting these nearby attractions.
Charlton, MA 01507
Leicester, MA 01524
Spencer, MA 01562
Brookfield, MA 01506
Worcester, MA 01609
Brookfield, MA 01506
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
West Boylston, MA 01583
Northborough, MA 01532