Lafayette's Farewell Tour in Southwestern Pennsylvania

Join historian and American Friends of Lafayette member Ernest Sutton, M.D., for a fascinating look at the Marquis de Lafayette’s celebrated farewell tour through Southwestern Pennsylvania in 1825. In 1824, President James Monroe invited Lafayette—the last surviving major general of the Continental Army—to return to the United States as its official “Guest of the Nation.” Lafayette embarked on an extraordinary 13-month journey, traveling approximately 6,000 miles through 24 states and receiving enthusiastic welcomes along the way. Dr. Sutton’s presentation explores Lafayette’s travels through Southwestern Pennsylvania, offering a closer look at his historic visit and the communities and people he encountered along the way. This talk was presented at the Ligonier Valley Library on October 22, 2026.