General Lafayette and Rose Hill Crossing

In 1824, after forty years, Marquis de Lafayette returned to the United States for a ‘ticker tape’ tour that included a visit to Versailles.  During his parade into Versailles, ladies threw flowers in his path to honor the Frenchman who had been Major General of the Colonial Continental Army.  On Saturday, October 26, at 2pm at the Versailles market off Rose Hill Avenue General Lafayette will be honored again. 

This event presents the same problem as other large events at that location – safe crossing of Rose Hill Avenue from the public parking lot across the street.  It is hoped there will be a police officer at the crossing and hope that there are plans for a protected cross walk with markers and a light.

As a footnote, 1824 was a year of a contentious presidential election.  There was scorched earth hyperpartisanship.  Andrew Jackson won the popular vote but no one won a majority of the electoral college.  The House of Representatives (Henry Clay speaker of the house) decided to elect John Quincy Adams triggering claims of fraud and threats of violence.

            Martin Traugott

            Versailles