Lafayette Tour Marker, Northampton, Massachusetts (MA-169)

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’s visit to Northampton took place as he rushed across Massachusetts to return to Boston in time for the laying of the cornerstone of the Bunker Hill Monument. The General entered the village accompanied by the sheriff, the Committee of Arrangements, and a detachment of cavalry. He visited the newly opened Round Hill School and met with a large group of ladies at the meetinghouse. A dinner was provided for the occasion at Warner’s hotel.

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