News Summary

The city of Beaufort has launched a bicentennial celebration commemorating the historic visit of Marquis de Lafayette in 1825, which will run until March 18. The event features a series of activities including lectures, dances, and living history interpretations, engaging historical interpreters to bring the past to life. Significant events are set to occur leading up to a grand finale featuring a recreation of Lafayette’s arrival, including parades and ballroom dancing. Local institutions are collaborating to make this celebration informative and interactive for the community.

Beaufort Kicks Off Bicentennial Celebration of Marquis de Lafayette’s 1825 Visit

The bicentennial celebration honoring the Marquis de Lafayette’s historic visit to Beaufort in 1825 commenced this past week and will continue through March 18.

Event Highlights

• The celebration features a variety of events including lectures, dances, and living history interpretations.
• Historical interpreter Mark Schneider will participate in some activities.
• Official planning for the celebration began in August.

Venue Information

Informative display boards are currently available for viewing at:

• City Hall
• Beaufort History Museum (available until March 14)
• John Mark Verdier House Museum

The Beaufort County Library is also engaged in program activities, along with scheduled school events.

Upcoming Events

Several activities are scheduled leading up to the grand finale:

• March 12: “Toys & Games of 1825 – Waiting for Lafayette” at the Beaufort County Library (registration required).
• Lafayette-inspired art exhibit/sale titled “In the Footsteps of Lafayette” at the John Mark Verdier House.
• March 17: “How Liberty Found a Country: Conversations with Historian & the Marquis” at St. Helena’s Anglican Church Parish House (tickets required).

Grand Finale on March 18

The celebration will culminate on March 18 with a re-creation of Lafayette’s arrival, featuring:

• A boat arrival at Waterfront Park with a 13-musket salute and a cannon salute.
• A parade procession along Bay Street and a welcome from local dignitaries.
• An unveiling of a Lafayette marker and historical demonstrations.
• 19th-century ballroom dancing by the Revolution Ballroom and Beaufort County School District.
• A farewell to Lafayette ceremony on Craven Street.

The day’s events will take place from 10 AM to 3 PM, culminating in a special ball titled “Dancing With Lafayette,” reminiscent of the original 1825 celebration. Tickets are available online.

Collaborators

Partnering organizations for the bicentennial celebration include:

• Historic Beaufort Foundation
• City of Beaufort
• Beaufort History Museum
• Beaufort Convention & Visitors Bureau
• American Friends of Lafayette
• The Lafayette Trail, Inc.

Historical Significance

In 1825, Lafayette was honored in Beaufort with a 13-gun salute and attended a reception and ball. His visit was a part of his Farewell Tour of the Nation where he visited 24 states before concluding in Washington, D.C., on September 6, 1825.

A Revolutionary War reenactment with local children is planned for March 22 to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolutionary War.

Mark Schneider will portray Lafayette during the celebrations, contributing to the historical experience and engagement of the community.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• Explore Beaufort SC
• Wikipedia: Marquis de Lafayette
• Your Island News
• Google Search: Marquis de Lafayette history
• Dancing With Lafayette Event
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Marquis de Lafayette
• News Break
• Google News: Lafayette visits Beaufort