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WCNY Commemorates Lafayette’s 1825 Visit with New Film and Educational Program
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May 19, 2025
WCNY, Central New York’s public communications organization, is proud to announce the premiere of its latest original documentary, “Lafayette: A Hero’s Return,” airing 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.
Narrated by Julien Icher, historian and founder of the “Follow the Frenchman” YouTube series, the film 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.
The documentary is sponsored by the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, an organization dedicated to preserving history and promoting community heritage.
“At the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, we fund historical markers that tell powerful stories, honor enduring legacies, and strengthen the fabric of communities,” said Bill Brower, executive director of the Pomeroy Foundation. “We’re proud to support The Lafayette Trail’s efforts to commemorate General Lafayette’s momentous 1824–1825 Farewell Tour with markers that bring this chapter of history to life. WCNY’s new film captures the spirit of that journey in a dynamic, compelling way, and we’re honored to collaborate in sharing this part of our nation’s story. If this history inspires you, imagine what a Pomeroy Marker could do for your community.”
In addition to its television premiere, “Lafayette: A Hero’s Return” will be made available to schools across New York State, particularly in communities Lafayette visited during his 1825 journey. The educational initiative aims to inspire students through a powerful story of patriotism, diplomacy, and democratic values that endure through time.
To learn more, visit wcny.org/lafayette. For viewing details, visit wcny.org/wheretowatch or stream live at wcny.org/livestream.
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