Lafayette addresses the Citizens of New Orleans

Lafayette addresses the public from the Jackson Square Festival Stage, scheduled for 10:15am sharp before the beginning of the French Quarter Festival.  Although this event is free and the public is heartily welcomed, our good friends at the Louisiana State Museum Foundation have arranged for AFL members, guests and AFL package ticket holders to receive free wristbands, allowing us early entry and reserved standing space in front of the stage.  AFL members and special guests will meet in front of the Cabildo at its entrance for 9:30am sharp for check in and to proceed to the Jackson Square French Quarter Festival Stage to a VIP area.  This is the only way AFL members can be assured of entrance and to have a viewing location in front of the stage.

After some pomp and circumstance, Louisiana Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser will address the crowds and then introduce Chuck Schwam, the National Bicentennial Director of the American Friends of Lafayette historical society.  After a few words on the significant contribution Lafayette made to our winning our independence from Great Britain, Chuck will bring on the Man of the Hour himself,  General Lafayette, who will address the citizens of New Orleans. <Period attire is welcomed>

 LAFAYETTE’S CONNECTION

A procession of carriages carried everyone to New Orleans, where the City’s Mayor welcomed Lafayette and Lafayette spoke, all under a great triumphal welcoming arch.  An imposing arch of Triumph was erected in the center of the square, Place d’Armes (now Jackson Square) in front of the Cabildo.  It was 68 feet high with a massive 40-foot arch. It was decorated with colossal statues of Justice and Liberty.  24 stones each decorated with a gilded bronze star represented the then twenty-four states of the Union.  Upon the upper pedestal was written on one side in English and the other in French “A grateful republic dedicates this monument to La Fayette.”