Marker in Mercer commemorates visit by hero of the American Revolution

A historical marker was dedicated over the weekend in Mercer Borough, permanently commemorating the 200th anniversary of French Maj. Gen. Marquis de Lafayette's visit. The American Revolution hero stopped in Mercer on June 2, 1825, during his Farewell Tour of the United States.

Mercer County Commissioner Ann Coleman noted on Facebook Saturday's dedication of the marker, placed outside the Mercer County Historical Society. Visitors to the museum can also see the bed where Lafayette reportedly slept.

The marker's inscription reads: "Around 1 a.m. on June 2, 1825, Gen. Lafayette was welcomed in Mercer. He rested until dawn, and at 7 a.m., he resumed his journey north to Erie."

Fans of the musical "Hamilton" know that Lafayette's character was played by Daveed Diggs in the original cast of the Broadway hit.

The marker was provided by The Lafayette Trail, Inc., an organization dedicated to tracing Lafayette's footsteps during his 1824-1825 tour. The initiative aims to educate the public about the national significance of Lafayette's journey and promote a broader understanding of his contributions to American independence, in preparation for the bicentennial celebrations of the tour in 2024-2025.

Lafayette's 1824 return to the United States, nearly 50 years after the Revolutionary War, was at the invitation of President James Monroe. The nation was grappling with a contentious presidential election and widespread division. Monroe hoped Lafayette's visit would reignite patriotism and celebrate the nation's 50th anniversary.

Known for his support of human rights, including religious freedom and equality for women, and his abolitionist stance, Lafayette had been imprisoned for more than five years following the French Revolution. Despite this, he was met with universal affection and gratitude across all 24 U.S. states. His arrival in New York sparked four days and nights of continuous celebration, a response mirrored in every state he visited. What was planned as a three-month tour extended to 13 months as Americans embraced their "Nation's Guest."