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 June 4, 1825, General Lafayette arrived in Buffalo and was paraded down Main Street. He addressed its citizens in a square that would later be named for him, Lafayette Square. General Lafayette met Seneca Chiefs and Revolutionary War allies Red Jacket and Captain Pollard, then enjoyed a reception and banquet at the Eagle Tavern, where he spent the night.
Learn about Revolutionary War Combat Strategy. Watch the Revolutionary War Animated Map. For a summary, read An Overview of the American Revolution.