Author Jeffrey E. Finegan, Sr. discusses unique relationship between General George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette

PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 17, 2023 – “My Dear Général” – The Extraordinary Relationship between George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette, is the subject of February’s “Great Talks at Gloria Dei” event.

Featuring author Jeffrey E. Finegan, Sr., the program begins 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, at Historic Gloria Dei (Old Swedes’) Church, 916 S. Swanson (Columbus Blvd. and Christian Street) in the Queen Village section of Philadelphia.

 Attendees will hear the inside story of the remarkable father-and-son relationship that developed between the childless 45-year-old General George Washington and the 19-year-old French orphan Marquis de Lafayette.  

Come learn about their very first meeting at Philadelphia’s famous City Tavern, their exploits in battles at nearby Barren Hill and Brandywine, and the personal letter from Lafayette to Washington that inspired this book. 

You’ll also hear about the marvelous reception Lafayette received from Philadelphia when he visited “the Hall of Independence” in September 1824. 

Relive those days with Jeff Finegan a collector of Washington’s documents and author of four books on America’s first President. Join us as Mr. Finegan shares this important story about two of U.S. history’s most important military leaders.

Admission is $10, which includes a drink ticket for a beverage of your choice (alcoholic or non-alcoholic). Advance registration is required.

A reception follows the talk.

This program will take place inside the church sanctuary, followed by a reception in Riverside Hall. For a modest donation, you can taste delicious gourmet desserts paired with wine, coffee or tea and buy copies of Mr. Finegan’s books. 

This event is hosted by the Historic Gloria Dei Preservation Corporation. 100% of the funds raised from this event go toward the preservation of Gloria Dei (Old Swedes’) Church and its graveyard.

George Washington and Marquis de Lafayette at Valley Forge. Black-and-white copy of John Ward Dunsmore's painting from c. 1909. Public Domain work Courtesy of Wikimedia.