Luncheons at Mount Hope: Lafayette's Visit to Crawford County

Join us for lunch at Mount Hope (Baldwin-Reynolds House) for period food and an examination of Lafayette's visit to Crawford County!

As part of our events leading up to the 200th anniversary of LaFayette’s visit to Meadville in 1825 as well as America’s 250th (1776-2026), we’ll enjoy a two year long series of activities including this period luncheon and lecture. Richard Arthur, historian, speaker, and curator of the Eagle Hotel in Waterford will present on Lafayett's life and visit to western Pennsylvania, including Meadville.

As the nation approached its fiftieth anniversary, President James Monroe extended an invitation to Lafayette to visit America as “Our Nation’s Guest.” Lafayette was greeted by large crowds as he toured all 24 states. Every community welcomed him with arches of flowers, long-winded speeches, and typically bad local bands. Meadville was no exception as Lafayette was escorted into Meadville where he was given a welcome at Gibson’s Tavern followed by a tea/reception at the tavern of Samuel Torbett.As part of our events leading up to the 200th anniversary of LaFayette’s visit to Meadville in 1825 as well as America’s 250th (1776-2026), we’ll enjoy a two year long series of activities including this period luncheon and lecture. Richard Arthur, historian, speaker, and curator of the Eagle Hotel in Waterford will present on Lafayett's life and visit to western Pennsylvania, including Meadville. The event will also highlight the sterling silver tea service owned by Samuel Torbett and used at his tavern, the “Sign of the Stag” to entertain Lafayette at his visit and reception. Americans of the second and third generations removed from the Revolution recognized his deep love for his adopted country and the critical role he played in securing their freedom.

In the years that followed his visit, Lafayette’s role has faded. Arthur hopes that by sharing some of Lafayette’s remarkable stories, his legacy will be revived as the United States approaches its 250th birthday.

Parking next door at Holland Hall with gravel path to the museum

Host or Publisher The Crawford County Historical Society