Lafayette Tour Marker at Richmond (VA-108)

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 had convinced French King Louis XVI to send troops and ships, which proved crucial to the American victory at Yorktown. 

Lafayette arrived in Richmond on October 26, 1824, and proceeded to the Eagle Hotel, where his headquarters were established. On the evening of October 30, a dinner was held attended by Chief Justice John Marshall. Richmond's Masons Hall was built in 1785 and is the actual location from which Lafayette was received and made an honorary member. During his visit to Richmond, he recognized his old associate in the crowd. According to a local newspaper account, Lafayette called out to James Armistead Lafayette and took him into his embrace. Born a slave, James received permission to serve with Lafayette as a spy. For his service, Armistead received his manumission in 1787.

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