A Bicentennial Celebration
of General Lafayette's Visit to Cheraw
The Nation's Guest
Marquis de Lafayette
Marquis de Lafayette, "The Nation's Guest," made Cheraw his first stop in South Carolina after traveling from Fayetteville, North Carolina. His arrival on March 6, 1825, was marked by enthusiastic celebrations, including a grand public reception and ball held in his honor. This visit by one of the Revolution's most distinguished heroes highlighted Cheraw's unique role in American history. Throughout 2024–2025, organizations across the United States and France will commemorate the Bicentennial of Lafayette’s triumphant return to America.
Cheraw residents are proud to join the likes of other notable cities such as Boston, Philadelphia, Charleston, and Savannah, as well as small towns to celebrate and honor the 200th anniversary of Lafayette's visit.
Beginning in Winter 2025
Join in on the festivities honoring America's favorite fighting Frenchman!
Stay tuned for events for all ages to celebrate and explore Cheraw's rich history
About
Lafayette
Born Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch
Gilbert du Motier de La Fayette,
September 6, 1757.
General Lafayette, a teenage major general in the American Revolution, was a loyal ally to George Washington, displayed remarkable bravery in key battles, and played a critical role in securing French support that helped win the war. He later became a champion for human rights globally, influencing political reform and earning honors in the U.S., including towns, colleges, and monuments named after him.
Cheraw's Most Famous House
The Lafayette House
The Lafayette House in Cheraw, South Carolina, stands as a testament to both architectural elegance and American Revolutionary history. Built in 1822 by Dr. William Ellerbe and believed to be designed by Russell Warren, this Federal-style home represents a beautiful variation of the early Classical Revival architecture. The house achieved its greatest historical significance during the Marquis de Lafayette's farewell tour of the United States in 1825. This visit established the home as a center of social prominence. Today, the Lafayette House continues to stand as an enduring symbol of Cheraw's historical importance and its connection to the ideals of the American Revolution.
February 6
The American Revolutionary War in S.C.
& Lafayette Exhibit
Burr Gallery, Cheraw Community Center, 200 Powe St.
Opening Reception: February 6, 4:00 -6:00 PM
Displayed through mid-March, 8:30 - 5:00 Mon-Fri
February 11
"Lafayette, A Life Well Lived"
A Talk by Joe Volpi & Brooks Lyles of American Friends of Lafayette
2 Sessions: 11:00am and 2:00pm
Cheraw Community Center, 200 Powe St.
February 22
English Country Dance Workshop
12-1pm (Families/Children)
1:30-3:30pm (Adults/6th grade+)
Kevin Lear's, 140 Second Street
February 25
Revolutionary War Trivia Night
7:30pm
Dizzy's Bar & Grill, 201 Front St.
March 1
American Music 1770s - 1820s
with musicians David & Ginger Hildebrand
11:00am (Families/Children)
3:00pm (Students/Adults)
Theatre on the Green
March 4
Documentary: Mike Duncan's "Hero of Two Worlds: The Marquis de Lafayette in the Age of Revolution"
Courtesy of the American Revolution Institute
of the Society of the Cincinnati
4:00pm
Theatre on the Green
March 4
French Wine Tasting/Pairings
with AIS Sommelier Rachel McDonald
6:30pm
The Wine Factory, 165 Second St.
$25 per person, reserve by Feb. 21 (843.537.8420 x 12)
March 6
Marquis de Lafayette's Arrival in Cheraw
Escorted by S.C. Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard
2:30pm
100 Block of Market St, Ending at Town Green for Public Welcome
​
"A Farewell Tour Primer"
by Alan Hoffman, President, American Friends of Lafayette
Following Lafayette's Arrival
Theatre on the Green
March 6
Lafayette Bicentennial Gala
The Lafayette House
Sold Out
March 7
School Presentation by Marquis de Lafayette
9:15am and 10:45am
Limited Seating. Call 843.537.8420 x 12 to reserve.
Events
All events are free unless otherwise noted​
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