Lafayette Tour Marker, Skaneateles, New York (NY-166)

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 arrived around 1 a.m. on June 9, 1825 (some sources note June 8, reflecting the overnight passage). Despite the late hour, the streets were thronged with people, eager to see the Revolutionary War hero. The village was illuminated by bonfires, creating a festive and patriotic atmosphere, and Lafayette paused at Hall’s Hotel at the corner of Jordan Street and East Genesee Street, the site later occupied by the Masonic Hall.

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