Events

The comte de Rochambeau, the commander in chief of France’s 1780 expeditionary force sent to aid the Continental Army, played a pivotal role in helping to secure American independence. To commemorate the 300th birthday of this important figure of the American Revolutionary War, join us and the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail for a special evening honoring the French commander.

Beginning at 5 p.m., guests can enjoy a special pairing of libations and French pastries, mingle with representatives from partner historical organizations and view rare selections from our library collections that highlight the importance of the Franco-American alliance during the Revolution and that illustrate the art of war during the life of Rochambeau.

At 6 p.m., a performance by the Chorale de l’Ambassade de France will continue the celebrations before welcoming remarks are provided by the executive director of the American Revolution Institute, Andy Morse; the trail administrator for the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail, Johnny Carawan; and the ambassador of France to the United States, His Excellency Monsieur Laurent Bili.

At 6:30 p.m., the evening will culminate with a keynote lecture by historian Iris de Rode, Ph.D., who will explore the life and legacy of Rochambeau by focusing on his service during the American Revolution.

This program will be held in-person at Anderson House only. Registration is required and closes on June 25, 2025. Registration is limited to 90 people and will be honored on a first-come, first-served basis. Please use the link below to register for the program.  

Register to Attend the Program

The American Revolution Institute of the Society of the Cincinnati, Inc., and the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail would like to thank the following partners for their support of this program: the Embassy of France in the United States, the Chorale de l’Ambassade de France, the Museum of Connecticut History and Connecticut State Archaeologist, the Newport Historical Society, Stoll and Wolfe Distillery and the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route Association (W3R).