Lafayette Trail Marker, Saco, Maine (ME-198)

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. 

Committee of Arrangements for the towns of Saco and Biddeford. After both parties made greeting speeches, Lafayette was escorted to Cleve’s Hotel in Saco by a large cavalcade. Colonel George Thacher was appointed as Chief Marshall for the occasion and led the procession. It was reported that the bridge between Biddleford and Saco was decorated with banners and arches welcoming the General as he passed by. He was greeted on the Saco side of the bridge by the school children of both towns, and said he was delighted to see the “rising generation.” When he arrived at Cleve’s Hotel, he was introduced to many gentlemen and ladies, and he shook hands with many former Revolutionary War soldiers, some of whom had belonged to the unit of Light Infantry that the General had commanded. Lafayette stayed the night in Saco and left for Portland the next day.

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