Beaufort Commemorates 200 Years Since Lafayette’s Visit

Categories: Beaufort, SCCommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Colonial reenactors celebrating Lafayette's visit in Beaufort

News Summary

Beaufort celebrated the 200th anniversary of Marquis de Lafayette’s historic visit with a reenactment and community events on March 18, 2025. The festivities included a procession and a colonial ball at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, honoring Lafayette’s role in the American Revolution. Organizers emphasized the significance of the event, which involved extensive planning and community engagement. The day reflected Lafayette’s contributions, marked with a historic reenactment and plans for a new marker outside the Verdier House.

Beaufort celebrated the 200th anniversary of Marquis de Lafayette’s historic visit with a reenactment and various community events on March 18, 2025. The day was marked by spring weather that set the tone for a festive atmosphere.

The reenactment commemorates Lafayette’s original visit to Beaufort in 1825, where he was honored as a key figure in the American Revolution.

Lafayette was a French aristocrat who fought for the Continental Army.
He served alongside General George Washington in battles at Valley Forge and Yorktown.
The reenactment features Mark Schneider, a U.S. Army veteran and Lafayette interpreter for 25 years.
A procession through downtown will culminate in a colonial ball at the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.
The event is organized by the Historic Beaufort Foundation (HBF) to honor Lafayette’s contributions to the city.

Cynthia Jenkins, HBF’s executive director, called the event a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” Lise Sundrla, HBF’s assistant director, highlighted Lafayette’s status as a “Hero of the Nation.”

Planning for the anniversary has spanned two years, involving extensive research and community engagement.

Lafayette, born in France, joined the fight against the British at just 19 years old. His “Farewell Tour of the Nation” in 1825 included visits to 24 states.

During his original visit to Beaufort, he was celebrated with a 13-gun salute and a grand reception featuring a ball. Anecdotes suggest he greeted townspeople from the steps of the Verdier House.

Plans are in place to install a historic marker outside the Verdier House to further commemorate Lafayette’s visit.

Beaufort Mayor Phil Cromer emphasized the significance of Lafayette’s visit to the city’s historical legacy. Numerous local organizations are also planning events to honor Lafayette’s lasting impact.