Lafayette Square

Lafayette Square used to be a part of President’s Park. It was separated from the White House in 1804 by President Thomas Jefferson, who had a road built between the park and the building. The square was named after the French Marquis de Lafayette, who played a decisive role in the American War of Independence. You can find his statue in the park, along with a statue of President Andrew Jackson depicted on his horse. The square has served many purposes over its history: it was used as a racecourse, a graveyard, a zoo, an encampment for soldiers, and even a slave market. Major political celebrations and demonstrations have also taken place here. The square began to take on its current appearance in the 1930s. Today, it is one of the nicest places to go for a walk, right in the heart of Washington and just a few steps away from the White House.