Lafayette Tour Marker, Portland, Maine (ME-25)

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 convinced King Louis XVI of France to send troops and ships, which proved crucial to the American victory at Yorktown. 

General Lafayette arrived in Portland, Maine, on June 25, 1825. Upon his arrival at Bramhall Hill, he was greeted by the committee of arrangements and local citizens, as cannons announced his entry. Lafayette rode in an open carriage drawn by four white horses, accompanied by his son and secretaries, and was followed by Revolutionary War veterans, military officers, clergy, and a citizens’ cavalcade. The escort comprised four uniformed light infantry companies: the Portland Light Infantry, Portland Rifle Company, Portland Mechanic Blues, and Brunswick Light Infantry. The procession toured the city streets, where citizens cheered, banners flew, bells rang, and schoolgirls waved flower wreaths and tossed roses. An estimated 12,000–15,000 people from across the state attended. The parade ended at the State House. There, Lafayette greeted state senators and representatives, met Governor Parris, and addressed the crowd. Lafayette then received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Bowdoin College. The General was then taken to Mr. Daniel Cobb’s home, where he was entertained by the leadership of the Free Masons of Maine and stayed for the night.

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