Berkshire County Historical Society to Mark Lafayette Bicentennial
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Berkshire County Historical Society (BCHS) will commemorate the bicentennial of the Marquis de Lafayette's 1825 visit to Pittsfield with a series of public programs and events from June 11 to June 13.
The commemoration will include a reprise of Lafayette's arrival in Pittsfield on Park Square on June 13.
In 1824-1825, Lafayette, the last living Major General of the Continental Army, toured the United States as the "Nation's Guest." On June 13, 1825, he visited Pittsfield and participated in a ceremony on Park Square. The bicentennial commemoration will feature a horse-drawn carriage arrival, a welcome ceremony with local dignitaries, music, and a speech by a Lafayette historic re-enactor.
"The historical society is very excited to bring this series of programs to our community," BCHS Executive Director Lesley Herzberg said. "Not only was Lafayette a significant figure in America's war for independence, his passionate support of the abolition of slavery, for women's rights and women authors, religious tolerance, and support for democratic governments are still relevant today."
The re-enactor is also scheduled to visit Pittsfield public schools on June 9 and 10 to discuss Lafayette's military career, his friendship with George Washington, and his intelligence activities.
Public events, unless otherwise stated, will take place at Herman Melville's historic Arrowhead, 780 Holmes Road, Pittsfield.
SCHEDULE OF PUBLIC EVENTS:
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Pop-up Exhibition – "The Life and Legacy of The Marquis de Lafayette": Throughout the summer, BCHS will display six educational panels from the American Friends of Lafayette, detailing Lafayette's life, role in the American Revolution, and advocacy for human rights. An additional panel will focus on his 1824-1825 return to the U.S. These panels will be displayed at Berkshire Community College (May 5-16), Pittsfield City Hall (May 19-30), and Berkshire Athenaeum (June 2-13).
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Wednesday, June 11, 5:30 PM: "Lafayette: More Than A Rock Star" lecture: Lafayette enthusiast Peter Reilly will discuss Lafayette's early life, his role in the American Revolution, and his 1824-1825 tour. The lecture will also explore his championship of causes such as women's education and abolition. This is a free event.
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Thursday, June 12, 6:30 PM: French Wine Tasting with Philippe Jeanjean: WSET-3 Certified Sommelier Philippe Jeanjean will lead a tasting of French wines from regions associated with Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson, accompanied by artisanal cheeses and pâtés. Proceeds will benefit the Berkshire County Historical Society. Tickets are $100 for BCHS members and $125 for non-members, available at berkshirehistory.org. Limited seating is available.
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Friday, June 13, 4:00 PM: Welcome the Marquis de Lafayette to Pittsfield: A commemoration of Lafayette's 1825 visit will be held on Park Square. The program will include the Berkshire Concert Choir, Berkshire Fife and Drum Corps, and local dignitaries. Hot Plate Brewing will host a series of toasts. This is a free event, beginning at 4:00 PM.
Programs commemorating the bicentennial of Lafayette's visit to Pittsfield are sponsored by The Feigenbaum Foundation, Greylock Federal Credit Union, Hill Engineering, Housatonic Heritage, Lee Bank Foundation, Massachusetts Cultural Council, MountainOne Bank, and Pittsfield Cultural Council.
