In 2012, during an archaeological dig in the Hill House Gardens, a wealth of artifacts was unearthed. Among them was a water pitcher commemorating Lafayette’s 1824-25 visit to the United States, depicting “Lafayette Visiting Franklin’s Tomb.” Most of the pieces were recovered, and the pitcher was carefully reconstructed. This find suggests the commemorative china pattern, produced between 1825-1830, was once part of the Hill House collection before 1850. Recently, the museum had the opportunity to acquire a commemorative 1820s coffee and tea set featuring the same pattern. Stop by in October to see this beautiful set in person.