News Summary

Beaufort is set to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Marquis de Lafayette’s historic visit with a reenactment on March 18, 2025. The event will start with cannon and musket fire at 10 a.m., followed by a grand procession along Bay Street, which will be closed for the festivities. Attendees are encouraged to wear 19th-century attire, and various activities throughout the day will honor Lafayette’s lasting impact on American history. This celebration emphasizes the significance of Lafayette’s contributions to Beaufort and the nation.

Beaufort Prepares for 200th Anniversary of Marquis de Lafayette’s Historic Visit

Beaufort will commemorate the 200th anniversary of Marquis de Lafayette’s visit with a grand reenactment on March 18, 2025, expecting large crowds in downtown.

Event Details:

• Reenactment Start Time: Cannon and musket fire at 10 a.m.
• Where: Lafayette will arrive at the waterfront, followed by a procession along Bay Street.
• Plaque Unveiling: A new plaque will honor Lafayette, marking Beaufort as part of the Lafayette Trail.
• Costume Encouragement: Attendees are encouraged to wear 19th-century attire.

Road Closures:

• Bay Street: Closed from Charles to Scott Streets from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. (No parking after 7 a.m.)
• Scott Street: Closed from Bay Street to Port Republic Street from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (No parking after 7 a.m.)
• Craven Street: Closed from Scott Street to Carteret Street from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. (No parking after 7 p.m.)

Residents are asked to use alternate routes due to expected traffic delays.

Activities Throughout the Day:

• Welcoming Ceremony: Initial welcoming at the waterfront.
• Parade to Verdier House: Lafayette’s speaking location from 200 years ago.
• Dancing With Lafayette: A highlighted event echoing the original planned dance in 1825.
• Live History Demonstrations: Educational displays, museum exhibits, and more.
• Farewell Ceremony: Marking the conclusion of Lafayette’s visit.

This historic celebration has been in planning since August and brings together local organizations, such as the Historic Beaufort Foundation and the Sons of the American Revolution.

As noted by Mayor Phil Cromer, Lafayette’s visit holds significant relevance to both Beaufort and national history. His participation in pivotal events like the siege at Yorktown in 1781 solidified his contributions to American independence.

The bicentennial celebration serves to remind residents and visitors alike of Lafayette’s lasting impact on Beaufort’s rich history.

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HERE Resources

Beaufort Honors Ann Head with New Biography Release
Hilton Head Island Implements Mobile Parking Fees March 2025
Beaufort Celebrates 200th Anniversary of Lafayette’s Visit
Beaufort Kicks Off Bicentennial Celebration of Lafayette’s Visit
Beaufort Prepares for a Grand Celebration of the American Revolution

Additional Resources

• WSAV: City of Beaufort Honors Marquis de Lafayette
• Wikipedia: Marquis de Lafayette
• Explore Beaufort SC: Lafayette Anniversary Events
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Marquis de Lafayette
• Island Packet: Lafayette Bicentennial Celebration