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 the morning of June 28, 1825, Lafayette crossed the Cornish–Windsor Covered Bridge from New Hampshire into Windsor, Vermont, where he was greeted by General Asaph Fletcher, sheriff of Windsor County. After a 15-gun salute, he was escorted to Pettes' Hotel and met by 75 Revolutionary War veterans. Bells rang, and crowds lined the street. Governor Cornelius Van Ness delivered the welcome address.
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.
Windsor, VT 05089
Woodstock, VT 05091