In 1824-1825, the last living Major General of the Continental Army, the Marquis de Lafayette, was invited to the United States by then President John Quincy Adams. Over a period of thirteen months Lafayette would travel 6,000 miles visiting all twenty-four existing states and Washington City as the “Nation’s Guest.” On June 13, 1825, he came to Pittsfield and participated in a festive ceremony on Park Square.
To commemorate the bicentennial of this event, the Berkshire County Historical Society will host a series of public programs and events June 11 – 13. Events will include a reprise of Lafayette’s arrival by horse-drawn carriage and welcome to the city complete with local dignitaries and officials, music, and a speech by a Lafayette historic re-enactor. In addition to public events, the re-enactor will visit Pittsfield public schools June 9 and 10 offering comment on his military career, his friendship with George Washington and his introduction of a spy to British camps.
This life-sized portrait was presented to Congress in 1824 by French artist Ary Scheffer. It remains displayed in the House of Representatives opposite a portrait of George Washington.
SCHEDULE OF PUBLIC EVENTS
All events take place at Herman Melville’s historic Arrowhead, 780 Holmes Road, Pittsfield MA unless otherwise stated.
Pop up Exhibition – The Life and Legacy of The Marquis de Lafayette
Throughout the summer, BCHS will display a series of six educational panels created by the American Friends of Lafayette that tell the important stories of Lafayette’s life and legacy including his American Revolution participation, his critical role in cementing the Franco-American Alliance, and his lifelong passion for human rights. This history is shared through historic images, carefully researched label copy, and engaging graphic design. Additionally, there is a panel focused on his return as Guest of the Nation in 1824-1825, and the efforts of the American Friends of Lafayette to commemorate this bicentennial in 2024-2025. This exhibit strives to make Lafayette’s story more accessible and relevant to today’s citizens. In March, the panels were first displayed at Miss Hall’s School where students created additional panels highlighting the role women played during the revolutionary period.
The panels will be displayed:
Berkshire Community College – May 5-16
Pittsfield City Hall – May 19-30
Berkshire Athenaeum – June 2-13
Additional dates and venues will be added. Anyone interested in displaying the panels should contact melville@berkshirehistory.org.
Wednesday, June 11. 5:30 pm: Lafayette: More Than A Rock Star lecture
Lafayette enthusiast Peter Reilly explores the nation’s obsession with the French General the Marquis de Lafayette – learn about his early life, his role in the American Revolution at just 19, and his famous tour from 1824 to 1825. Reilly will provide context and insight into the fascinating person who became Washington’s confidante and later championed causes such as women’s education and abolition. Free event
Thursday, June 12, 6:30 pm: French Wine Tasting with Philippe Jeanjean. WSET-3 Certified Sommelier
Noted Berkshire sommelier Philippe Jeanjean guides us through a tasting of French wines from the regions cherished by the Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson—two passionate wine connoisseurs of the American Revolution. Accompanied by an elegant selection of artisanal cheeses and delightful pâtés, this experience promises a celebration of refined flavors and revolutionary spirit. Join us in raising a glass to history! All proceeds benefit Berkshire County Historical Society; limited seating.
Tickets are $100 BCHS members and $125 non-members; use the BOOK NOW button to purchase tickets.
Friday, June 13, 4 pm: Welcome the Marquis de Lafayette to Pittsfield
On June 13, 1825, Lafayette visited Pittsfield as the “Nation’s Guest.” The only living general of the Revolutionary War, he arrived to great fanfare, music and speeches and thanked Americans for their generous hospitality. Join us on Park Square as we commemorate the bicentennial of his visit with a lively program of history and revelry. Participants include Berkshire Concert Choir, Berkshire Fife and Drum Corps, and local dignitaries. After the ceremony we will retire to Hot Plate Brewing Company for toasts reminiscent of those made 200 years ago. Free event, beginning at 4 pm.
Programs commemorating the bicentennial of Lafayette’s visit to Pittsfield are sponsored by: The Feigenbaum Foundation, Greylock Federal Credit Union, Hill Engineering, Housatonic Heritage, Lee Bank, Massachusetts Cultural Council, MountainOne Bank, Pittsfield Cultural Council.
Lafayette in Pittsfield, June 13, 1825
Lafayette arrived in Pittsfield around 4:00 PM and departed the same evening. Word of his anticipated arrival had only been received the previous evening, leaving not much time to make arrangements. He was met at the State border by a subcommittee of the Committee of Arrangements. President of the Day was Colonel Joshua Danforth, a revolutionary officer. Two first marshals were Jonathan Allen and General J. B. Root. Also present were Henry Hubbard, Phineas Allen, H.H. Childs, Thomas A. Gold, and Sherriff Henry C. Brown. The military escort consisted of the officers of the 7th Division of the Militia in uniform.
Lafayette entered a handsome coach provided by Jason Clapp. His approach was announced with bells and cannon and on entering the village an immense concourse of citizens opened into two columns. Lafayette descended from the coach at an elegant Arch near the great Elm (currently Park Square). Jonathan Allen addressed him and he replied.
He proceeded to the Congregational Meeting House (currently the First Congregational Church, on the north side of Park Square) through two lines of children. He ascended a stage and was addressed by Doct. Bachelder on behalf of the ladies of Berkshire who filled the house to overflow. He met many of the clergy and several old companions in arms and other revolutionary veterans.
Other officers of the day were Colonel Churchill, Colonel Clapp, Major E.E. Colt, Major E.M. Bissell, Lieutenant L. Pomeroy Jr., and Ensign Allen.