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 October 22, 1824, General Lafayette arrived in Norfolk via the steamboat Petersburg and was greeted by the mayor, John E. Holt. In anticipation of his arrival, a civic arch was erected for the occasion. Following a parade through the streets and a banquet, General Lafayette overnighted at Mrs. Hansford’s boarding house.
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.
Norfolk, VA 23510
