On September 1, 2024, historical societies across New Hampshire celebrated the Marquis de La Fayette’s return to the seacoast, commemorating the bicentennial of his 1824 farewell tour. Two Hundred years ago, the Marquis had returned to his beloved America and was welcomed as a patriotic hero at events in 25 states over 13 months.
I find it fascinating to be surrounded by living historians, those who are passionate about our history. As we participate in and celebrate events from America’s history, we learn and create opportunities to make better, more informed choices.
Last Sunday, NH hosted four events and a banquet in La Fayette’s honor, replicating his original seacoast tour. In his presentation remarks, the Marquis graciously offered greetings and gratitude for his role in America’s independence. However, did you realize we would have never achieved independence without his financial contribution and political influence?
The Marquis’ story is unique. His father died at the hands of the English in the French and Indian War when he was a child. At the age of 17, he enlisted in the French military to serve his homeland. When he heard of the rebellion in the colonies against England his heart “enlisted” to join the colonists. After some interesting maneuvers, the young 19-year-old marquis arrived in America and presented himself to Congress, willing to fight for the cause… self-funded. He became aide du camp to George Washington, who took him under his wing in what would become a father-son relationship. Over the years, La Fayette supplied much in the way of secretive supplies and powerful influence for the colonists to enlist the French at various pivotal points in the war.
At yesterday’s memorial events, I was asked to greet the Marquis La Fayette as Molly Stark, beloved wife of the Revolutionary War hero, John Stark who coined the phrase: “Live free or die… for death is not the greatest of evils.” Elizabeth Page, called Molly by her husband, was a devoted wife and mother of 11 children. Raised by Puritan parents, she was a hardworking, no-frills revolutionary woman who served her family and sacrificed much for her country. I was honored to participate in these memorial programs inspired by local historians who devoted many hours to creating these events to honor this special patriot’s memory.
Arriving by horse and carriage at each venue, General La Fayette was accompanied by the NH Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard and was greeted by General John Stark (Richard Wright) with his wife, Molly. La Fayette offered greetings that were genuinely heartwarming and engaging at each event. The SAR honored La Fayette with a 3-volley musket salute at each stop, commemorating those who have given their lives so that we may live in freedom.
La Fayette continues to visit several states over the next few weeks. Catch up with him at https://lafayette200.org/
Viv la Liberte’
Molly, aka Lois
Check out this article: Marquis de Lafayette hailed as ‘rock star’ of American revolution (seacoastonline.com)