Tavern Tour 250: How a French aristocrat became a hero of the American Revolution

When you think of the American revolution, most people think of George Washington, majestically riding into battle against the redcoats. But you may not know about one of Washington’s closest ally in the war. Well let us introduce you to: Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette.

The Marquis de Lafayette was a French aristocrat who became so enamored by American revolutionary fervor, that he crossed an entire ocean to help the Continental Army stave off the British. Though many doubted him, Lafayette fought and led the fledgling United States right up through the decisive victory at Yorktown in 1781. 

As a part of our TAVERN 250 series, Cherri and I have been traveling around PA celebrating the people and places pivotal to the American Revolution in the countdown to its 250th anniversary. We spent an evening at Brittingham’s Pub in Lafayette Hill, to learn all about the town’s namesake and France’s role in the Revolutionary War. Today, we’re bringing you selections from that conversation.

Guests: 

 Chuck Schwam, executive Director of the American Friends of Lafayette. 

 Graham Brent, longtime member of the Philadelphia Lafayette Bicentennial Committee.