News Summary
Beaufort, South Carolina, is hosting the Bicentennial Lafayette Soirée to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette’s visit. This elegant event will take place at the historic Dr. Joseph F. Johnson House and features French-inspired cuisine, live music, and serves as a fundraiser for the Historic Beaufort Foundation. Guests will enjoy an enchanting evening filled with community spirit, all while raising funds to preserve the area’s historic properties.
Beaufort’s Lavish Soirée to Celebrate 200 Years Since Lafayette’s Charming Visit
Beaufort, South Carolina, is gearing up for a fabulous evening as it prepares to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette’s visit. Yes, you heard that right! The Bicentennial Lafayette Soirée is just around the corner, bringing together history buffs and community supporters for a night filled with fun, food, and fantastic music.
Where History Meets Elegance
This year, the soirée will take place in the beautiful gardens of the iconic Dr. Joseph F. Johnson House, affectionately known as “The Castle.” Built in the 1850s, this stunning venue is owned by the lovely couple, David and Nancy Russell, who are excited to host the event. Guests can expect a warm and inviting atmosphere as they step into a piece of Beaufort’s rich history.
A Taste of France Right in Beaufort
Prepare your taste buds! The soirée will feature French-inspired culinary delights that are sure to transport attendees straight to France. Adding to the delightful ambiance will be live music from the Lafayette String Sextet and the Andrew Theilan Band, setting the perfect mood for a magical evening under the stars. This vibrant celebration isn’t just a feast for the senses; it’s also a chance to raise much-needed funds for a great cause!
A Mission to Preserve Our History
This year, the event serves as the primary fundraiser for the Historic Beaufort Foundation (HBF). The proceeds from the soirée will go to a collaborative program focused on rehabilitating historic properties, particularly in the Northwest Quadrant and Old Commons neighborhoods. It’s a critical mission, as many historically significant properties in these areas have fallen into vacancy and disrepair over time. The foundation aims to halt the deterioration of residential properties that have been neglected, ensuring that Beaufort’s architectural treasures are preserved for future generations.
Remembering a Historic Visit
The Lafayette Soirée has a rich history itself, having been celebrated annually since the 1980s in honor of Lafayette’s important visit. It’s believed that he addressed the residents at the John Mark Verdier House, built around 1804. No wonder this event holds so much significance! Earlier this year, HBF and the City of Beaufort held a memorable commemoration event that drew more than 3,000 attendees, featuring a lively parade and a cannon salute to top it all off.
Support from the Community
Gracious hosts, Dave and Nancy Russell, are thrilled to open their gardens for the soirée, demonstrating their commitment to supporting HBF’s mission. With excitement building, the soirée has become one of Beaufort’s most-anticipated events.
Get Your Tickets!
Tickets are flying fast, so if you want to join in on the fun, you’d better act quickly! They’re available for members at $200 and non-members at $230. You can snag your tickets online or by calling the HBF office—just remember, they’re non-refundable. And don’t fret about the weather; the soirée is set to take place rain or shine!
Appreciation for Sponsors
A big shout-out goes to the generous sponsors who have helped make this soirée possible, including local names like A Friend of Historic Beaufort Foundation, Atlantic Asphalt, and Montgomery Architecture & Planning. Because of their support, the Historic Beaufort Foundation continues to uphold its mission of preserving and protecting Beaufort’s historic legacy for more than 60 years.
Join the Celebration
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this soirée is a perfect opportunity to revel in Beaufort’s remarkable history while enjoying a delightful evening of community spirit. For more information on HBF’s mission and upcoming events, be sure to check out their website and social media platforms. Let’s dive into this wonderful journey together and keep our history thriving!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Bluffton Today: May 10 Fundraiser
- Wikipedia: Marquis de Lafayette
- Bluffton Today: Historic Beaufort Foundation
- Google Search: Beaufort South Carolina
- Bluffton Today: Bicentennial Lafayette Soirée
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Beaufort
- Bluffton Today: Lafayette String Sextet
- Google News: Lafayette Soirée
