About

Step back in time to October 22, 1824, and join the 1824 Mayor of Norfolk, the Honorable John Holt, to greet General Lafayette as he steps ashore in Norfolk. This ceremony marks the exact bicentennial (to the hour) when General Lafayette approached Norfolk onboard the steamboat Petersburg after a five-hour trip down the James River from Jamestown. The outdoor ceremony will be held about 200 yards from the original ferry landing and within a 1 to 2 minute walking distance from where the three-masted schooner, the American Rover, is berthed. The brief arrival program will include the Black American double agent, James Fayette; a young woman from 1824 who will recite one of the original poems presented to Lafayette in 1824; and French military representation.

The event is free and open to the public.

Nearby (paid) parking is available at the City of Norfolk parking lot on Atlantic St. (immediately behind the Norfolk Waterside Marriott), a short walk to the schooner’s berth, for the follow-on Sunset schooner Cruise for registered guests.