Lafayette Tour Marker, Goochland, Virginia (VA-140)

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 had spent November 1, 1824, in Richmond, where he was celebrated extensively. Early on November 2, the Henrico Militia formally escorted him out of the city and westward along River Road toward Goochland County. Local citizens gathered to greet Lafayette at Powell's Tavern. Afterward, Lafayette continued westward along the main road (today’s River Road corridor) toward Monticello, home of Thomas Jefferson.

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