An Evening with Ryan Cole: The Last Adieu

Guest: $10 | IHS Member: Free (check-in begins at 6 p.m.)

Marquis de Lafayette, hero of the American Revolution, returned to the growing United States after a forty-year absence. What greeted the last living major general of America’s revolutionary army was one of the grandest celebrations staged by the young republic – from the Atlantic Ocean to the banks of the Mississippi River, Americans celebrated Marquis de Lafayette’s homecoming. From 1824-1825, Lafayette toured all twenty-four states, including Indiana. This unifying celebration brought to mind memories of the Revolution and the values fought for by Lafayette and other Revolutionary heroes.

Ryan L. Cole’s just-released book (September 2025), The Last Adieu: Lafayette’s Triumphant Return, the Echoes of Revolution, and the Gratitude of the Republic, paints a vivid panorama of 1824-1825 America. As the nation approaches another celebration – our 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence – we invite you to kickstart your reflections on the 250th with a conversation between Cole and IHS President and CEO Jody Blankenship about Lafayette’s homecoming, his experiences in Indiana on his journey, and what lessons we can draw on from Lafayette’s observations of the early republic.

Following the conversation, Cole will sign copies of The Last Adieu: Lafayette’s Triumphant Return, the Echoes of Revolution, and the Gratitude of the Republic.

The Basile History Market will be open throughout the program; books can be purchased in advance by calling 317.234.0020 or purchased at the event.

About the Author 
Ryan L. Cole is the author of Light-Horse Harry Lee: Rise and Fall of a Revolutionary Hero. His writing has appeared in the Wall Street Journal, American Heritage, Civil War Journal, Indy Star, among other publications. He lives in Indiana.

Program supported by a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc.