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 visited Portsmouth, New Hampshire, where he was received by Governor Morrill at Franklin Hall. An article in the Concord Gazette and Middlesex Yeoman, dated September 11, 1824, captured the details of his arrival and activities: He [Lafayette] entered Portsmouth about noon, amidst hearty welcomes and rapturous acclamations of the hardy sons of New Hampshire; salutes of artillery, and ringing of bells. The margin of the avenue to the town was lined with children, wearing the La Fayette portrait, and with Ladies behind them, presenting a very pleasing and interesting spectacle. The streets were arched with festoons, wreaths, and garlands, and crowded with an applauding multitude.
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.
Portsmouth, NH 03801
North Hampton, NH 03862
South Berwick, ME 03908
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
