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Chautauqua County to Celebrate Lafayette Bicentennial Jubilee This Summer

On June 4, 1825—two centuries ago—Fredonia witnessed one of its most storied moments when an iconic figure in both the American and French Revolutions, General Marquis de Lafayette, visited the village. This summer there will be a commemoration of this historic event with the Lafayette Bicentennial Jubilee, a week-long celebration from May 30 to June 6.

The Jubilee will feature a variety of events, including:

  • A reenactment of Lafayette’s arrival in the early evening on June 3rd–coinciding with the historic moment when Lafayette was expected to arrive in 1825–in Barker Commons
  • A new exhibition and lectures at the Darwin R. Barker Museum
  • A festival at Barker Commons with period musical performances and food vendors
  • An 1820s-era tea, “Tea with the Marquis” and dance at Grange No. 1
  • A ballet performance by Infinity Dance Academy
  • Period Music: Fife and Drum performance by Fredonia High School musical ensemble, and a vocal performance of Yankee Doodle by the Boys and Girls Club of Northern Chautauqua County.

On June 3, Barker Commons will be bustling with activity as we prepare to welcome the Marquis to our lovely village. As we await the arrival of his carriage, music and dance performances are guaranteed to entertain, and delicious food provided by vendors of the Fredonia Farmers Market will be available for purchase.


The Darwin R. Barker Historical Museum is located in the heart of Fredonia, New York, inside the Darwin R. Barker Library. It includes archives, two research libraries, and rotating exhibits. Admission is free.

Open Hours:
Tuesday 4-8
Friday 1-5
Saturday 1-5

Mission statement:

The Darwin R. Barker Historical Museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of the Northern Chautauqua County area, with special emphasis on the Village of Fredonia and Town of Pomfret. We seek to create programs, exhibitions, tours, and demonstrations to connect visitors with the people, events, and stories of the past.  

Revised February 2020