August 16th, 2024 marked the remarkable bicentennial of the 1824-1825 Farewell Tour of Marquis de Lafayette, famously known as America’s “Guest of the Nation” and a revered “French Founding Father.”
Over this year and next, events across the nation will commemorate Lafayette’s journey, retracing his footsteps on the exact dates and in the same order he traveled two centuries ago.
The French-American Cultural Foundation (F-ACF) had the pleasure of attending several distinguished events to honor Lafayette’s enduring legacy. At these events, we connected with a vibrant community of Francophiles and Americans alike. Keep reading for a recap of the memorable events we attended in October as part of Lafayette’s Bicentennial Celebration.
October 14: An Evening Reception at Gold Leaf Studio, Washington D.C.
Kicking off our Lafayette celebrations, F-ACF hosted a private reception at Gold Leaf Studio in Washington, D.C., in honor of Vincent Bouat-Ferlier, Director of the Josée and René de Chambrun Foundation and steward of La Grange and the Lafayette Archives. Vincent is a dear friend of F-ACF, beginning his work with us when he supervised the renovation of the National Musee de la Marine.
At the intimate gathering, we brought together a fascinating group of Francophiles, historians, artists, and esteemed members of the French Embassy.
Against the unique backdrop of the studio of frame historian and master gilder Bill Adair, covered in art and intricate frames, guests sipped champagne and sampled artisanal French cheeses while discussing Lafayette’s legacy, and news of the development of a museum at La Grange. The gathering was an immersive experience, providing a fitting start to the celebrations.
October 15: Exploring Lafayette’s Legacy at the Embassy of France
F-ACF joined guests at La Maison Française at the Embassy of France for a thought-provoking panel discussion on Lafayette’s complex and impactful legacy.
The panel gathered distinguished experts, including Vincent Bouat-Ferlier, historian Iris de Rode, Kenneth Cohen from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, Robert Kelly of the American Friends of Lafayette, and Julien Icher of The Lafayette Trail, among others. The discussion offered fresh perspectives on Lafayette as a military leader, diplomat, and champion of liberty, underscoring his profound influence on French-American relations.
October 16: Villa Albertine’s “French-American Histories” Series
In collaboration with Fédération des Alliances Françaises USA, Villa Albertine continued its insightful virtual series, “French-American Histories: One Story, Two Narratives,” with a special edition honoring Lafayette.
F-ACF was thrilled to attend as Vincent Bouat-Ferlier shared the Chambrun Foundation’s mission to preserve Lafayette’s legacy, notably the restoration of his historic home, the Château de Lagrange.
Moderated by Iris de Rode, Ph.D., the discussion explored the Foundation’s dedication to conserving Lafayette’s personal artifacts and archives. It provided an invaluable perspective on the hero’s life and impact on democratic ideals on both sides of the Atlantic.
October 17: Fall Gala Dinner at Mount Vernon
We had the honor of attending the Life Guard Society’s Fall Gala Dinner at Mount Vernon, an extraordinary black-tie event commemorating Lafayette’s visit to Mount Vernon on October 17, 1824.
Guests were welcomed to cocktails on the east lawn overlooking the Potomac River, followed by an elegant seated dinner. The evening closed with dessert, drinks, and a captivating fireworks display.
Proceeds from the event supported Mount Vernon’s preservation efforts, echoing Lafayette’s own reverence for George Washington. For many in attendance, the evening was a heartfelt tribute to Lafayette’s bond with Washington.
October 25: A Special Commemoration in Virginia with Governor and Mrs. Youngkin
F-ACF joined Virginia Governor and Mrs. Youngkin for a special event at Virginia’s Executive Mansion, where they filmed a video celebrating Lafayette’s triumphant return to Virginia following the Revolutionary War.
This gathering paid tribute to Lafayette’s 1824 visit, which included a dinner at the Executive Mansion. The event was highlighted by an appearance from Mark Schneider, a highly regarded Lafayette interpreter, who lent a vivid touch of history to the occasion. Guests enjoyed refreshments and conversation, bringing a lively atmosphere to this special bicentennial commemoration.
Lafayette’s Farewell Tour was more than a journey across America; it was a testament to enduring friendship and a shared commitment to liberty and democracy.
We invite you to follow Lafayette’s historic journey and participate in upcoming bicentennial events! Visit lafayette200.org/events to explore events and discover the next steps in this incredible celebration.