Lafayette’s Arrival at James Madison’s Montpelier

Saturday Nov 16, 10:00am - 3:00pm

You may have been to Montpelier before, but today will be so special. We start our day by joining President James Madison and his wife, Dolley as they welcome General Lafayette who will be arriving in a horse drawn carriage escorted by Gov. James Barbour.

• Their most knowledgeable staff will welcome us into their home and talk about each room, the history and the friendship with Lafayette.
• After touring their home, you will have a chance to see the areas “behind the scenes” at your own pace exhibited below the house.
• Also at your leisure, a box lunch will be reserved for you to enjoy at the visitors center.
• Can you find time to visit the DuPont Formal Garden, “The Mere Distinction of Colour” exhibition, the Landmark Forest, the Madison family cemetery and newly discovered enslaved community cemetery on property, the DuPont Museum, and the wonderful gift shop!?
• All this before 2:00pm as you will not want to miss General Lafayette’s and James Madison’s ”Conversations on Current Issues We Face (in 1824)” in the Grand Salon. I say accept my challenge and say “YES”!

Price: $90

***If you have registered for the Presidents Weekend Package - this event is included in that package****

Saturday afternoon we will leave Montpelier and travel over to Governor Barbour’s home. It is in ruins but you can still tell who designed it. Gov Barbour will be home to welcome Lafayette. We will tour the ruins and grounds before departing. 

James Barbour’s Home in Ruins

3:15pm - 4:00pm

On Barboursville Winery property - Maps given out at end of talk at Montpelier for the short drive to the ruins.

In 1824 Governor James Barbour and General Lafayette are just starting a very long and close friendship. James Barbour was born in 1775 and  Barbour’s father, Thomas Barbour, served continuously in the House of Burgesses where he participated in the memorable debates and events of those years. As a young boy, James earliest recollections would of been of his father’s revolutionary actions and stories of General Lafayette. General Lafayette will join us to remark on the grand house designed by Thomas Jefferson and talk about his earlier days in Virginia during the war.

FREE - No reservation required, part of the Lafayette’s Day at Montpelier event