Sen. Deschambault introduces bill to commemorate Franco-American history

AUGUSTA — Sen. Susan Deschambault, D-Biddeford, introduced a bill to mark the trail that the Marquis de Lafayette took when he visited Maine on Tuesday. LD 1927, “Resolve, Directing the Department of Transportation To Erect and Maintain Markers To Commemorate and Recognize the Lafayette Trail,” will mark the trail General Lafayette took when he visited Maine during his tour of the United States between 1824 and 1825. This bill honors General Lafayette and his tour in Maine after the American Revolution to meet with old friends and colleagues. In 1824 to 1825, Lafayette was summoned to return to the states from his home in France, because he was the only living General from the Revolution at the time. Recognizing the Lafayette Trail in Maine is part of an effort all over the Eastern Seaboard to recognize the historical significance of Lafayette, who helped secure French support for American independence and fought alongside Americans during the war. “I am so impressed by General Lafayette,” said Sen. Deschambault, “for the sacrifices he made by coming to America to support the Revolution; his deep respect and appreciation of George Washington; and for his commitment to the Franco-American relationship. This bill will help us raise awareness of General Lafayette and honor his legacy.” Julien Icher, the Founder and Executive Director of the organization called The Lafayette Trail, testified at the public hearing.  “General Lafayette is widely known in the U.S. for his participation in the Revolutionary War,” said Icher. “However, few people are aware of his triumphant 1824 visit, in the wake of which he entered the national collective memory. Maine was four years old in 1824, and Lafayette’s visit instigated statewide patriotic celebrations. He has left a deep mark in the state that has yet to be forgotten.” LD 1927 now faces further committee action before going to the Maine Senate and House for votes.   

 Sen. Deschambault with Founder of The Lafayette Trail, Julien Icher, on the left, and Alan Hoffman, an advocate for The Lafayette Trail organization, on the right.