Lafayette Tour Marker, Arlington, Massachusetts (MA-143)

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. 

Menotomy, now known as Arlington, Massachusetts, played a significant role during the American Revolution, particularly noted for the Battle of Menotomy on April 19, 1775. Many residents were descendants of those who fought or died in the opening hours of the Revolution. As he approached the town on September 2, 1824, artillery stationed on the surrounding hills fired salutes, announcing his arrival to the town. He was greeted at the meeting house.

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