Lafayette Tour Marker at Sterling (MA-59)

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. 

According to the September 8, 1825 edition of the Massachusetts Spy, Lafayette 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 to an arch decorated by greenery at the entrance to the village, which read “Welcome Lafayette, America’s Adopted Son, Brother and Friend of Washington. Our land in trouble found a friend in thee, We’ll not forget thee in prosperity."

Learn about Revolutionary War Combat Strategy. Watch the Revolutionary War Animated Map. For a summary, read An Overview of the American Revolution.