Narrated by Julien Icher, historian and founder of the “Follow the Frenchman” YouTube series, “Lafayette: A Hero’s Return” explores Lafayette’s enduring legacy in both New York and American history. It traces his deep-rooted commitments to freedom, self-governance, and commerce, and examines the significance of his 1824–25 tour through the lens of a divided post-war nation, drawing powerful parallels to the present day.
During his thirteen-month visit to the United States, prompted by an invitation from Congress, Lafayette toured all 24 states of the young American republic. He concluded his journey in June 1825 with stops in Buffalo, Rochester, Auburn, Albany, and Syracuse as he traveled through New York State en route to laying the cornerstone of the Bunker Hill Monument in Boston.
Tune in for the premiere on Monday, June 9 at 9 p.m. on WCNY-TV.
The broadcast commemorates 200 years to the day since General Lafayette visited Syracuse during his farewell tour of the United States, a journey that celebrated one of the last surviving heroes of the American Revolutionary War.
“Lafayette: A Hero’s Return” is now available to schools across New York State, with a special focus on the communities Lafayette visited during his historic 1825 tour.
During that journey, Lafayette stopped in:
Buffalo – June 4
Niagara Falls – June 5
Rochester – June 7
Syracuse – June 9
Schenectady – June 11
Albany – June 12
This educational initiative seeks to inspire students through the enduring story of Lafayette’s patriotism, diplomacy, and commitment to democratic values.
Bring history to life in your classroom with a grant-funded historical marker project from the William G. Pomeroy Foundation. The Foundation’s National Education Program helps students explore their community’s past through hands-on research, enriching learning with meaningful connections to local history.
Learn more at https://www.wgpfoundation.org/history/education.
