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Sunday, March 23, 2025

9:00 AM – Lafayette Greeted at the Riverwalk (no charge)
Location: City Dock at Augusta Riverwalk
(Hotel room block may be available, contact Bev Baker, 678-488-1975)

In 1825, the people of Augusta gathered in great anticipation as the Marquis de Lafayette arrived to relive the heroic camaraderie of the American Revolution. Join us on this historic occasion as Augusta welcomes Lafayette at the City Dock along the Riverwalk, 5th Street Marina (1 5th St.) where he will be received with official greetings from esteemed dignitaries and the Georgia SAR color guard and militia. As was done two centuries ago, the city will show its admiration for the General with a grand parade, leading us to the Jessye Norman Amphitheater (15 8th St), where music reminiscent of the 19th century will set the stage for the day’s commemorations.

9:30 AM – Jessye Norman Amphitheater Entertainment (No Charge)
Location: 15 8th Street

Augusta’s civic leaders will formally greet Lafayette in the grand tradition of public orations that marked his original Farewell Tour. Historic speeches and commemorative remarks will bring the past to life, celebrating Lafayette’s unparalleled contribution to American liberty. If conditions allow, a special flyover by the Georgia State Patrol may add a stirring tribute to the occasion. (If rain, this activity will be in the Augusta Marriott in the Lamar Room.)

11:00 AM – Lafayette Historical Marker Dedication at Augusta City Hall (No Charge)
Location: 535 Telfair St.

In honor of Lafayette’s visit to Augusta in 1825, we will dedicate a Lafayette Historical Marker at Augusta City Hall, ensuring that the legacy of this beloved French hero remains firmly planted in the city’s storied landscape. This dedication will stand as a lasting tribute to his extraordinary role in securing American independence.

12:30 PM – Luncheon at the Historic Joseph Lamar House ($40) (space is limited)

Join us for a special luncheon in honor of General Lafayette at the historic Joseph Lamar House, 415 7th Street. Built in 1860 by William Salisbury, the home was later purchased by Emily H. Tubman as the parsonage for the First Christian Church, where Reverend James S. Lamar served as pastor. His son, Joseph Rucker Lamar, lived in this house from the age of three until 18. During his childhood, Joseph developed a close friendship with Thomas “Tommy” Woodrow Wilson, the future 28th President of the United States, who lived next door in the Presbyterian Manse.

Emily Tubman lived through a remarkable era. Born in 1794, her life spanned from the presidency of George Washington to that of Grover Cleveland. A distinguished philanthropist and humanitarian, she built churches, managed a thriving plantation, and emancipated her enslaved workers before abolition was legally mandated. In an interview with the Augusta Chronicle in 1885, Mrs. Tubman recalls decorating and contributing a coverlet to ensure his quarters were fine enough, and recalls “I had the pleasure of an introduction to General Lafayette and the honor of shaking his hand”

By 1995, the Joseph Lamar House had fallen into disrepair. Recognizing its historical significance, Historic Augusta, Inc. acquired the property and undertook extensive restoration efforts. In 2004, the beautifully restored home became the organization’s headquarters and now also serves as the visitor center for the Boyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson, located next door.

2:00 PM – Lafayette Visits Historic Meadow Garden (No Charge)
Location: 1320 Independence Drive

Join us for the highlight event in Augusta! We will journey to historic Meadow Garden, 1320 Independence Drive, once the home of George Walton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Walton, one of Georgia’s most distinguished patriots, resided here from 1791 until his passing in 1804. In 1821, the Walton family moved south into the Florida Territory. Recognizing its significance, the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution acquired the property in 1901, ensuring its preservation for generations to come.

Today, the Georgia State Society Daughters of the American Revolution proudly stewards this historic treasure.

Although Lafayette did not visit Meadow Garden during his 1825 tour, he undoubtedly knew George Walton personally. One Walton family member did greet the Marquis! In the 1861 book Women of the South Distinguished in Literature the signer’s granddaughter, Octavia Walton, recalls traveling to Mobile, Alabama, to see the General in person. Her admiration reflects the deep reverence many early Americans held for the Marquis and his unwavering devotion to the cause of liberty.

To commemorate Lafayette’s enduring legacy, the Georgia State Society DAR is graciously opening this historic house museum, Meadow Garden, at no charge for this special occasion. Tour Walton’s historic home, meet our Lafayette reenactor as he mingles among visitors for photos and conversation, and engage in family-friendly activities celebrating our shared revolutionary history. Guests will enjoy a selection of light refreshments. As Lafayette prepares to depart Meadow Garden for his next stop in Warrenton, a special send-off awaits him!

Come be part of history and relive the spirit of 1825 in Augusta!

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