Staff reports
The spring weather was perfect Tuesday, March 18, 2025, for the reenactment of the arrival of the Marquis de Lafayette in Beaufort 200 years ago to the day.
The Marquis, played by nationally known historical interpreter Mark Schneider, arrived by boat to the day dock in Beaufort’s Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park at 10 a.m. accompanied by a cannon volley and 13-gun salute from the Sons of the American Revolution.
“It’s a glorious day and it’s amazing how many folks have come out from the community. It’s phenomenal,” said Lise Sundria, of the Historic Beaufort Foundation. “We began a year ago engaging the City as a partner and had our first [planning] committee meeting in August of 2024.”
“I’m impressed. I’m overwhelmed at the crowd,” Beaufort mayor Phil Cromer said.
Caroline Coslick, one of the many attendees in the park said, “I have a French flag. I love the French. How could we not come down here. It’s a beautiful day. All my life I’ve heard of Lafayette standing at the Verdier House and now I finally get a chance to see him.”
Following the arrival in Waterfront Park and short procession by horse-drawn carriage down Bay Street, Lafayette and dignitaries made brief speeches from the portico of the John Mark Verdier House before the unveiling of the historical marker celebrating the occasion.
Cromer said, “Here upon the shores of our beloved Carolina, where the spirit of independence first took root, we receive you not only as a hero of two worlds, but as a cherished friend and brother at arms.” Lt. Col. Chris Lyon, Commander of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort said, “Events like this remind us that history is not just something we study, it is something we live. Something we continue to write together.”
When Mark Schneider spoke as Lafayette, he said, “My heart is filled with joy at my love for this great state of South Carolina and this noble city of Beaufort. God bless you all and this great nation of the United States of America.”
Events continued throughout the day on Scott Street with living history demonstrations and culminating with a period costume ball, “Dancing with Lafayette,” at the historic Beaufort Arsenal courtyard.
