What did “the pursuit of happiness” mean to our nation’s founders and how did that famous phrase become the foundation of our democracy?

The Declaration of Independence identifies “the pursuit of happiness” as one of our unalienable rights, along with life and liberty. In his new book, National Constitution Center President and CEO Jeffrey Rosen profiles six of the most influential founders—Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and Alexander Hamilton—to show what pursuing happiness meant in their lives.

Join us as Rosen not only elucidates the meaning of the Declaration’s famous phrase, but also takes us on a revelatory journey into the minds of the Founders, providing a deep, rich and fresh understanding of the foundation of our democracy.

Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States on June 14, 1777 by resolution of the Second Continental Congress. While not a federal holiday, this special day is observed across the nation, from small towns to big cities, often with parades. Since 1916, Sons of the Revolution in the State of New York, Inc. (SRNY) has hosted the Flag Day Parade, Celebration, and Open House here in New York City.

Our 2024 Flag Day Parade will kick off at noon on Friday, June 14 from City Hall Park, follows down Broadway, and ends at the grandstand in front of Fraunces Tavern at about 12:30pm. The Ceremony includes the student Essay Contest winners reading their essays on “What the American Flag Means to Me” and more!

Join us for an opening preview, reception, lecture, and optional dinner on June 24 for our upcoming special exhibition, Lafayette: A Hero’s Return, opening to the public on June 25.

Marquis de Lafayette, a young, wealthy French aristocrat, volunteered for and later led the Continental Army to victory with General George Washington during the American Revolutionary War. Before his death in 1834, Lafayette returned to the United States in 1824 as the last living American General from the War. His visit not only helped President James Monroe celebrate the nation’s 50th anniversary, but also reignite its patriotism. He was welcomed with great fondness and fanfare by Americans in each of the then 24 states he visited over 13 months, especially in New York.

Fraunces Tavern® Museum joins with other peer institutions and organizations in celebrating the Bicentennial of Marquis de Lafayette’s return to the United States. This exhibition showcases objects illustrating both his heroic war-time service and his tour of America.

Join us for the opening preview event for our special exhibition commemorating the 200th anniversary of Lafayette’s return to America, featuring a lecture, The French Are Coming! The Franco-American Military Alliance 1780-1782, presented by Général de Brigade Vincent de Kytspotter, PhD, Head of Military and Defense Mission at the French Permanent Mission to the United Nations.