The Norwich Historical Society invites you to celebrate the bicentennial anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette’s visit to Norwich.

On August 22, 1824 Lafayette was the honored guest at a formal dinner in Norwich at the Kinney Hotel. Now, two hundred years later we welcome Lafayette to the Rose City once again.

Professional Lafayette reenactor, Michael Halbert, will visit the Norwichtown Green on August 22, 2024 for a private walking tour followed by a public ceremony and ice cream social.

An exhibition on Lafayette as “Hero of Two Worlds” will also be on display at the Dr. Daniel Lathrop Schoolhouse.

At 3pm, Lafayette and NHS tour guide Sandy Soucy, will lead visitors from the Norwichtown Green through the historic neighbor and Old Burial Grounds. This walk will highlight Lafayette’s time in Norwich during the American Revolution, patriots he knew, and other French connections to the city. Registration is required and spaces are limited. This walk is free for NHS members and $10 for the general public. Register here: https://www.memberplanet.com/events/norwichhistoricalsociety/lafayettetour

At 4pm, Lafayette will be welcomed to the Norwichtown Green by costumed 1820s reenactors and modern day dignitaries. After a brief ceremony there will be 18th century and early 19th century ice cream making demonstrations. Visitors are welcome to sample modern day frozen confections generously provided by Norwich’s own Minimelts. This program is free and open to the public. Attire circa 1750-1830 are encouraged, but not required!

Around 5:30pm, Lafayette and the Norwich Historical Society reenactors will move to downtown Norwich to host Lafayette and Norwich themed pub trivia. Details forthcoming.

Come and celebrate this milestone and meet the great man in person.