Nestled in the heart of Connecticut's largest historic district, the Webb Deane Stevens Museum's three historic houses tell important stories of national and statewide significance.
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Webb Deane Stevens Museum
211 Main StreetJoin us as we make history! Two hundred years ago, Wethersfield was scheduled as a stop on Lafayette’s 1824 Farewell Tour, but the General was delayed and had to bypass the town and scurry back to New York City to attend his 67th birthday celebration given by The Society of the Cincinnati.
This September you can celebrate with us as we make up for that missed visit by recreating the pomp and pageantry that greeted Lafayette wherever he went on his 13-month tour of all 24 states. Lafayette and Silas Deane will both be on hand to greet each other and celebrate!
Put on your finery and promenade to the party! A public parade on Main Street, including a local fife and drum corps, will kick off the events, and the evening will conclude with a celebration of Lafayette’s birthday in the historic barn at the Webb Deane Stevens Museum.
Be sure not to miss this opportunity to party like it’s 1824!
Schedule of Events
2-4:15 p.m.: Tours of our Historic Houses
4:30 pm: Parade on Main Street featuring Lafayette and Wethersfield’s own Colonel John Chester Fife and Drum Corps. Silas Deane will greet Lafayette when the parade arrives at his house.
4:45 pm: Special Guest French Brigadier General Vincent de Kytspotter, Head of the French Defense Mission to the United Nations, will share a few words on Lafayette and the French alliance.
5-8 pm: The party begins in the Holcombe Education Center with a glass of complimentary wine. Lafayette will then lead the party to the Webb Barn where guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres with a French flair, a cash wine bar, birthday cake, coffee, and tea. We will be treated to a short musical program by Rick Spencer and Dawn Indermuehle, who will perform songs popular during Lafayette’s time.
Sponsored and Hosted by:
The American Friends of Lafayette
The Society of the Cincinnati in the State of Connecticut
The National Society of Colonial Dames in America in The State of Connecticut
The Wethersfield Historical Society
This event falls under the category of a Party or Social Gathering but with a unique historic twist. It's an excellent opportunity for history enthusiasts, students, or anyone interested in the rich tapestry of our shared past to come together and celebrate.
The event has a historic sub-category, which means it's not just a social gathering but a chance to delve into history. We will explore the life and contributions of Lafayette, his role in shaping history, and the enduring impact of his actions.
The party will be held at the historic Webb Deane Stevens Museum in Old Wethersfield, Connecticut. The Museum, with its rich history and preserved 18th-century colonial houses, provides the perfect backdrop for our event.
We look forward to celebrating with you at the Lafayette Birthday Party, an unforgettable blend of history, celebration, and social gathering!
Fri, Sep 6, 2024 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Nestled in the heart of Connecticut's largest historic district, the Webb Deane Stevens Museum's three historic houses tell important stories of national and statewide significance.
Find more Webb Deane Stevens Museum Events