NGS 2021 Live! is Pleased to Introduce You to The Marquis de Lafayette

Marquis de Lafayette Portrayed by Charles Wissinger

Born into nobility and baptized Marie Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, the young Marquis de Lafayette sympathized with the colonies in British America and longed to stand up for the patriotic cause. Lafayette funded his own way to America, vowing to fight for Liberty and agreed to serve without pay. The Marquis de Lafayette served close at General Washington’s side, and soon Washington referred to Lafayette as his adopted son.

The Marquis de Lafayette was seen recently outside a famous Richmond historical site. Be sure to watch NGS 2021 Live! on Thursday, 20 May 2021, at approximately 5:00 p.m. to hear what Lafayette has to say about General George Washington and what it meant to fight alongside him in the Revolutionary War.

BIO: Charles Wissinger, a professional actor who loves history, graduated from Ferrum College with a BA in Theatrical and Performing Arts. He has worked on stage, in films, television, and commercials. He started working in living history as a re-enactor for St. John’s Church recreating the Second Virginia Convention where Patrick Henry gave his famous “Liberty or Death” speech. Charles further combined his love for acting with his love for history by researching and creating historical figures that played significant roles in the development of the United States of America. In the process, he has found a way of making education entertaining. Over the years he has expanded his repertoire to include James Madison, Marquis de Lafayette, Major John Andre, Francis Scott Key, Benjamin Franklin Stringfellow, and Audie Murphy.

To learn more about the NGS 2021 Virtual Family History Conference’s week-long events, 17-21 May, visit the conference website and download a copy of the program brochure. A discounted Early Bird registration fee is available through 15 March 2021.