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.
On September 1, 1824, General Lafayette was welcomed to Greenland, New Hampshire, with a triumphal arch and heartfelt ceremony in front of the local hotel. Lafayette's visit to Greenland was part of a larger tour through the New Hampshire Seacoast, which included stops in Hampton Falls, Hampton, North Hampton, and Portsmouth. The arch was adorned with white drapery, gilt and blue ribbons, and a central emblem—the Cap of Liberty. The motto displayed beneath the banner read: “Our Noble Guest, the Conquering Hero comes.”
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.
Greenland, NH 03840
Durham, NH 03824
