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.
Lafayette's stop in Elizabeth was primarily an overnight stay at Boxwood Hall, the home of Jonathan Dayton, a Revolutionary War officer, U.S. Representative, U.S. Senator, and the youngest signer of the U.S. Constitution. Dayton and Lafayette fought together at Yorktown. Lafayette left the next morning for New York City.
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.
Elizabeth, NJ 07201
Elizabeth, NJ 07206
Union, NJ 07083
Militia & Continentals push back a Hessian incursion
Springfield, NJ 07081
Jersey City, NJ 07306
Piscataway, NJ 08854
Morristown, NJ 07960
Piscataway, NJ 08854
