This summer, Andover residents and history enthusiasts are invited to walk in the footsteps of a French hero and discover the hidden stories of the town’s past as the Andover Center for History and Culture unveils a slate of engaging walking tours — all leading up to a special celebration commemorating the 200th anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette’s 1825 visit to the United States.
Themed walking tours, beginning this month and running through the fall, will showcase the town’s rich heritage, colonial architecture, and lesser-known tales from Andover’s storied streets. Led by expert guides from the Center, each tour promises an immersive experience for attendees of all ages, whether they’re longtime locals or first-time visitors.
- Saturday, June 7: Upper Central Street, 3 pm
- Sunday, June 22: Ballardvale Village, 1 pm
But the highlight of the season will be the Lafayette Bicentennial Celebration, scheduled for June 21 at 10 a.m. The festivities will mark 200 years since the Marquis de Lafayette — the French aristocrat and military officer who fought alongside American revolutionaries — made his grand return to the United States and was hailed as a national hero. While Lafayette did not stop in Andover during his original tour, the Center is using the milestone as a springboard to explore the town’s Revolutionary War connections and to honor its own unsung patriots.
“This anniversary gives us a unique opportunity to look at how Andover’s people contributed to the birth of the nation,” said Jessica Pizzolato, Executive Director of the Andover Center for History and Culture. “Through walking tours, exhibits, and community events, we’re shining a light on stories that still resonate today.”
Tour themes will range from “Revolutionary Andover” and “Historic Main Street” to special youth-friendly programs. The Lafayette celebration will include living history demonstrations, music, family activities, and a ceremony honoring local Revolutionary War veterans.
The Center encourages early registration for walking tours, which are expected to sell out quickly. Tickets and a full schedule of events can be found on the Center’s website. For more information and tickets, visit andoverhistoryandculture.org or call (978) 475-2236.