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President James Monroe invited the Marquis de Lafayette to visit the United States, his adopted country. Lafayette’s tour of all 24 states in 1824 and 1825 drew large crowds and sparked a renewal of patriotism. During the American Revolution, Lafayette’s intense advocacy of the American cause convinced King Louis XVI of France to send troops and ships, which proved crucial to the American victory.

Natchez was Lafayette’s only stop in Mississippi, arriving aboard the steamboat Natchez at daybreak on Monday, April 18, 1825. Multiple militia units turned out for review, including the Natchez Fencibles, LaFayette Riflemen, Adams Guard, and the Mississippi Guards from nearby Claiborne County. Lafayette was greeted by the Natchez City Council, and Council President William Burns delivered a formal address. Lafayette was the guest of honor at a formal dinner at the Steamboat Hotel, a major social center in Natchez, and a ball at Traveller's Hall. After the festivities, he departed for St. Louis.

Learn about Revolutionary War Combat Strategy. Watch the Revolutionary War . For a summary, read An Overview of the American Revolution.