George Washington Chapter Virginia SAR in Partnership with City of Alexandria Commemorates Bicentennial of Marquis de La Fayette's Return with New Heritage Trail Marker

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – October 16, 2024 – In a ceremony held exactly 200 years since the historic event, the City of Alexandria honored the return of Marquis de La Fayette to the United States with the unveiling of a new Alexandria Heritage Trail marker. The marker stands proudly at the corner of the Lafayette House at 301 Saint Asaph Street, where La Fayette resided during his visit in 1824.

The unveiling event (video) was marked by a proclamation from Mayor Justin Wilson, presented in collaboration with Virginia Tourism, the American Friends of Lafayette (AFL), and the George Washington Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR). The Lafayette House, a significant historical landmark, was constructed between 1815 and 1817 by Thomas Lawrason, son of patriot James Lawrason, who is regarded as one of the founding fathers of Alexandria. Today, the Honorable and Mrs. Robert Joseph opened their home to attending guests for the special occasion.

More than 100 attendees gathered to witness the ceremony, which featured remarks from Gretchen Bulova, Director of the Office of Historic Alexandria, and Chuck Schwam, AFL Executive Director. Schwam captivated the audience with details of La Fayette's travels during his return to the United States. Mayor Justin Wilson extended a warm welcome and proclaimed the day as Marquis de Lafayette Day in Alexandria. The highlight of the event was a portrayal of General Lafayette by Ben Goldman, adding a vivid touch to the celebration.

Virginia SAR compatriots in attendance included (left to right): Thomas Roth (Virginia SAR Historian / George Washington Chapter Historian), David Harrity (George Washington Chapter Secretary), Colin Eilts (George Washington Chapter America 250 Committee Member), Jeff Thomas (SAR Historian General / Fairfax Resolves Chapter), Scot Bryant (George Washington Chapter Vice President), Edgar Bates (George Washington Chapter America 250 Committee Chairman), Rand Pixa (George Washington Chapter Immediate Past President), and Scott Walker (George Washington Chapter President).

This commemoration not only honors La Fayette’s enduring legacy but also highlights Alexandria's rich historical heritage, inspiring the community to reflect on its storied past.

Pictured here: Mayor Justin Wilson hands Chuck Schwam, Executive Director of the American Friends of Lafayette with the city's proclamation, while Gretchen Bulova addresses the crowd.