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Monday, March 24, 2025

9:00 AM – Reception and Lecture Honoring the General (no charge)
Location: North Augusta, SC; City Hall and Municipal Building
100 Georgia Ave. North Augusta, South Carolina

In 1825, after departing Augusta, General Lafayette crossed the Savannah River into South Carolina, to the newly established town of Hamburg, South Carolina. Founded in 1821 by Henry Shultz, Hamburg rapidly developed into a significant river port and trading center, with its port bustling with vessels. Today, while Hamburg has transformed into a ghost town, the Georgia Committee AFL, and officials in North Augusta, SC, are dedicated to honoring Lafayette’s historic visit.

Our 2025 commemoration begins at the North Augusta Municipal Building, where Lafayette will be ceremoniously welcomed by Mayor Briton Williams and other distinguished guests, who will share remarks on the significance of his visit. A captivating lecture will be presented by Milledge Murray in the City Council Chambers, delving into the rich history and enduring legacy of his visit.

After the lecture, a reception will be held on the first floor of the Municipal Building, sponsored by the Martintown Road DAR Chapter, where light refreshments will be served. To conclude the commemoration, tours of the Charles Hammond House (908 West Martintown Road) will be available between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM.

Monday, March 24, 2025

3:00 PM – Parade, Official Greetings, Lafayette Historical Marker Dedication, and Reception (no charge)
(Free event, but registration required)

Step back in time and relive the patriotic spirit of 1825 as Warrenton, Georgia, welcomes the return of General Lafayette, the last surviving Major General of the American Revolution, on the 200th anniversary of his historic farewell tour of America!
–Parade Procession: Those marching in the parade will assemble at 3:00 PM at First Baptist Church, 201 Norwood Street. The parade route will lead to the Warren County Courthouse, where a grand assembly of citizens, reenactors, and dignitaries will pay tribute to Lafayette’s enduring legacy.
–Riding in a stately horse-drawn carriage, Lafayette will be greeted with cheers, flags, and the warm hospitality that Georgia is known for.

3:30 PM – Courthouse Ceremony (no charge)
–The SAR Color Guard and militia—proudly dressed in authentic Revolutionary War-era uniforms—will present the colors of the United States in a stirring display of patriotism.
–Official Welcome: City officials will offer greetings, recalling Warrenton’s role in Georgia’s rich Revolutionary heritage.
–Lafayette Speaks! The General himself will address the assembled crowd, reflecting on his lifelong commitment to liberty and friendship with America.
–Honoring a Forgotten Hero: Among the spectators, James Armistead Lafayette—the formerly enslaved double agent who provided crucial intelligence to Lafayette and General Washington—will be called forward and honored for his invaluable service during the Revolution.
–Lafayette Historical Marker Dedication: A historical marker will be unveiled, ensuring that Warrenton forever remembers Lafayette’s visit and the sacrifices made for American independence.
–The historic Burkhalter House will be open for tours.

5:00 PM – Community Reception (no charge)
Following the dedication, guests will gather for a reception at the Community Center (48 Warren St.), hosted by the Burkhalter DAR Chapter and the Warrenton Chamber of Commerce. Enjoy refreshments, conversation, and historical exhibits, as the community comes together to celebrate Lafayette’s enduring impact on American history.

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