Visit Culpeper

Exhibit Opening Reception Culpeper Hosts a Hero: Lafayette in Culpeper
2025-06-28 17:00 - 19:00 UTC | Museum of Culpeper History, 113 Commerce Street, Culpeper, VA, 22701
The Museum of Culpeper History presents Culpeper Hosts a Hero, the first exhibit to highlight General Lafayette’s historic visit to our town in August 1825. Rarely noted in official records of his tour of the United States, the Frenchman’s short stop in Culpeper was documented in detail by Capt. Philip Slaughter, Culpeper native and Revolutionary War veteran. Slaughter’s diary provides a rare glimpse of the General’s itinerary, the numerous activities organized to honor the “Guest of the Nation,” and those individuals who arranged the whirlwind of events. The exhibit includes an annotated map of Culpeper showing three locations which hosted events for the General and his entourage on August 22nd.
The exhibit explores this honorable man, his contributions to the young nation, and his life-long affection for his adopted country. Beyond the unprecedented reception he received during his 13-month tour of the United States in 1824-25, Lafayette’s visit was celebrated in Culpeper during the 1925 Centennial, and even today, in the Bicentennial festivities across the eastern and southern states during the last year and half.
A reception to open Culpeper Hosts a Hero will be held Saturday, June 28th, from 5 – 7 pm. Enjoy period music and refreshments – including wines provided by Mountain Run Winery and toddy tastings hosted by the Long and Hansen families. Period costumes are encouraged!
Those wishing to attend the opening reception are requested to RSVP by June 25.
