Lafayette celebrates birthday of namesake

By Jenna Case

Staff Reporter

Publication Date: 08/23/2007

Adam Leonberger | Senior Photographer

People in period dress are present during the announcement of events in Lafayette that will commemorate Marquis de Lafayette's birthday.

sponsored by

The Greater Lafayette community is coming together this fall to celebrate the 250th birthday of the Marquis de Lafayette.

Lafayette was a French statesman who inspired the names of Lafayette and West Lafayette. The community is arranging 24 events throughout the fall to commemorate his birthday.

The Marquis de Lafayette Celebration Committee Chair Ramona Lawson said the birthday is an important milestone in the Lafayette community.

"It's another opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate," she said. "Many artists, organizations and individuals are volunteering their time for this celebration."

Kathy Atwell, interim executive director of the Tippecanoe County Historical Association, said the signature event of the birthday celebration will be a musical tribute called All About Lafayette. The program, which will include French music and dancing, will be held at 4 p.m. on Sept. 9 at the Lafayette Theatre.

She also said re-enactors will be performing as the Marquis de Lafayette and George Washington at Global Fest at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 1 at the Morton Community Center.

Atwell said Lafayette is an important figure for America and France.

"The Marquis was a fascinating man," she said. "He could be inspiring for young people. He was a 19-year-old who changed America."