News Summary
Beaufort is set to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Marquis de Lafayette’s visit with the annual Bicentennial Lafayette Soirée on March 18. This event, held at the Gardens of the Dr. Joseph F. Johnson House, serves as a major fundraiser for the Historic Beaufort Foundation. Attendees will enjoy culinary delights and live entertainment, with proceeds aimed at preserving the community’s architectural and historic legacy. Highlights include performances by the Lafayette String Sextet and Andrew Theilan Band, and special commemorations of Lafayette’s journey.
Beaufort to Celebrate Bicentennial Lafayette Soirée with Culinary Delights
Beaufort will mark the 200th anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette’s visit with the annual Bicentennial Lafayette Soirée, which serves as a primary fundraiser for the Historic Beaufort Foundation (HBF).
Event Details
- Date: March 18
- Location: Gardens of the Dr. Joseph F. Johnson House (“The Castle”)
- Hosts: David and Nancy Russell
- Entry Fee: $200 for members, $230 for non-members
- Live Entertainment: Lafayette String Sextet and Andrew Theilan Band
Community Preservation Efforts
Cynthia Jenkins, the executive director of HBF, highlighted the community’s commitment to preserving its architectural and historic legacy. Proceeds from the soirée will be directed towards rehabilitating historic properties in the Northwest Quadrant and Old Commons neighborhoods of Beaufort, areas significant to the African American history of the community.
Historical Context
The John Mark Verdier House, believed to be where Lafayette addressed the Beaufort community in 1825, will feature a new marker celebrating Lafayette’s journey as part of The Lafayette Trail.
This annual soirée has been organized since the 1980s. A grand commemoration earlier this year attracted over 3,000 attendees, including a cannon salute and a parade.
Event Logistics
- Rain or Shine: The event will proceed regardless of weather conditions.
- Non-refundable: Tickets are non-refundable.
- Sponsors: Supported by local businesses and law firms, including A Friend of Historic Beaufort Foundation and Atlantic Asphalt.
Additional Celebrations
The bicentennial festivities will last two weeks, featuring lectures, exhibits, and a children’s costume parade, culminating in performances focused on Lafayette’s historical significance.
For ticket purchases, visit HistoricBeaufort.org or contact the HBF Office directly.
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HERE Resources
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Savannah Celebrates Lafayette’s 200th Anniversary
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Beaufort Commemorates 200 Years Since Lafayette’s Visit
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Beaufort Kicks Off Bicentennial Celebration of Lafayette’s Visit
Additional Resources
- Bluffton Today: May 10 Fundraiser to be Hosted by Historic Beaufort Foundation
- WTOC: City of Beaufort Celebrates Marquis de Lafayette Bicentennial
- Explore Beaufort SC: Beaufort to Host Several Events Celebrating 200th Anniversary of Historic Visit by Marquis de Lafayette
- Wikipedia: Marquis de Lafayette
- Your Island News: Lafayette Returns to Beaufort
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Marquis de Lafayette
