Senate unanimously supports Sen. Deschambault’s bill to commemorate a major leader in Franco-American history
AUGUSTA — A bill from Sen. Susan Deschambault, D-Biddeford, LD 1927, “Resolve, Directing the Department of Transportation To Erect and Maintain Markers To Commemorate and Recognize the Lafayette Trail,” received unanimous support from the Senate on Thursday. The bill will mark the trail General Lafayette took when he visited Maine during his tour of the United States between 1824 and 1825.
“Maine is celebrating its bicentennial this year,” said Sen. Deschambault. “What a great way to acknowledge Maine’s rich history by creating the Lafayette Trail. It will teach people about the unique relationship our fledging nation had with a generous and well loved Frenchman who made sacrifices for the independence of our country. It is very good news that the Senate has voted unanimously in favor of LD 1927.”
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 across 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.
Sen. Deschambault worked closely with Julien Icher, the Founder and Executive Director of the organization called The Lafayette Trail on this bill. Icher has worked with other states including New Hampshire to pass similar measures.
LD 1927 faces further votes from the Legislature before it is sent to the desk of Gov. Janet Mills, where she will have 10 days to sign the bill, veto it, or allow it to become law.
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.