Capturing History: The Marquis de Lafayette Visits Biddeford
- Cy Cyr
- Jun 26
- 2 min read
Photography for the Biddeford Historical Society – June 24, 2025
This past Monday, I had the honor of photographing a truly unique event hosted by the Biddeford Historical Society and The American Friends of Lafayette at the McArthur Library—welcoming the Marquis de Lafayette back to Biddeford… or at least, the next best thing.
The event featured a brilliant historical reenactor in full 18th-century dress portraying General Lafayette, the famed French ally to the American Revolution. The Saint Louis Band opened the afternoon with a lively welcome, setting the tone for a community gathering that felt both festive and reverent. Author Alan Hoffman, translator of Lafayette in America, then delivered an hour-long presentation on Lafayette’s 1825 tour of the United States, including his stop in Biddeford 200 years ago.
About 100 people filled the grounds and library to celebrate this moment in history, including University of New England President James Herbert, former Mayor Alan Casavant, and current Mayor Marty Grohman. It was Casavant who reached out to me just a week before and asked if I’d be interested in photographing the event. (I didn’t hesitate to say yes.)
One of the highlights of the day for me as a photographer was the opportunity to create a portrait of Lafayette in character—right on Main Street, with Biddeford City Hall rising behind him. There's something timeless about blending historical reenactment with a modern-day streetscape. It reminded me that Biddeford isn’t just a city with history—it’s a city that lives its history.
If you’re planning a public event, historical celebration, or community gathering in Maine, I’d love to help tell the story through images that connect people to place and moment. From candid documentation to polished portraits, I bring 25+ years of experience to every shoot—and a real appreciation for the heart behind local events like this one.
Let’s talk about your next event in Maine.
Visit cycyr.com to get in touch or see more of my recent work.
