You are cordially invited to attend the 200th anniversary celebration of Lafayette’s visit to Schenectady, NY, on June 11th, 2025. The citizens were described by Lafayette’s secretary, Auguste Levasseur, to have made the 1825 visit “very sweet for the General.” The 21st century aims to do so and more.

Reservations are required for lunch and dinner by Sunday, June 1st. All other activities are free and open to the public. Please visit the website to make a reservation: Lafayette 200 — Kiersten Marcil

The festivities will include:

• • 10:00 am — Grand Arrival of Lafayette at Riverside Park (same horse & carriage used in “The Gilded Age” episode filmed in Schenectady)
  • 11:00 am — Walking Tour of the Historic Stockade
  • 12:00 pm — Lunch with Presentation: “Local Revolutionary War Masons,” by Frank Karwowski
  • 1:30 pm — Unveiling of Historic Marker at Veterans Park (State/Lafayette St)
  • 4:00 pm — Author Panel at Schenectady Civic Playhouse, which includes:
    • International best-seller Stephanie Dray (The Women of Chateau Lafayette)
    • Bruce E. Mowday (Lafayette at Brandywine)
    • Elizabeth Reese (Marquis de Lafayette Returns)
    • And Chuck Schwam !!!

• 5:00 pm — Meet the Authors
• 6:00 pm — Celebration at the Glen Sanders Mansion with music performed by Musicians of Ma’alwyck, includes a recreation of the 24 toasts given in 1825 with an apple brandy specifically selected for this event. Dinner guests will be invited to give the toasts.

Reservation link: Lafayette 200 — Kiersten Marcil