The Road to Yorktown

“Norm Desmarais has performed an enormous service by translating the journal of the Comte de Lauberdière, who was an eyewitness to some of the most important events in America’s war for independence. Lauberdière, as Rochambeau’s aide-de-camp, was with the French ‘Special Expedition’ which came to the United States in the summer of 1780, fought side-by-side with George Washington’s troops at the Battle of Yorktown, and only departed when peace negotiations were well underway. Lauberdière’s remarkable attention to the details of the campaign—some of which have never before seen the light of day—together with his keen insights into American culture, make this well-written and lively translation a must-read for scholars of the American Revolution and its colonial era.” ~Larrie D. Ferreiro, Pulitzer Prize Finalist in History for "Brothers at Arms: American Independence and the Men of France and Spain Who Saved It"

“Far more than just a chronicle of events, Lauberdière’s journal provides remarkable insights into the experiences and impressions of the French soldiers who were essential to securing American victory during the Revolutionary War. An excellent read for those who seek personal perspectives.” ~Don N. Hagist, Editor, "Journal of the American Revolution"

“This is the first time the comte de Lauberdière’s journal has appeared in print, and it is a welcome addition to American Revolutionary War scholars and readers alike. Just 19 years old when he arrived in America in July 1780, Lauberdière had unique access into high command circles and offers details heretofore unknown or rarely seen. The helpful footnotes by editor and translator Norman Desmarais, an expert on the French Army during the Revolutionary War, adds interesting perspective and context. Highly recommended." ~Christian McBurney, author of "George Washington’s Nemesis: The Outrageous Treason and Unfair Court-Martial of Major General Charles Lee during the Revolutionary War" (Savas Beatie, 2020)

“Louis-François-Bertrand du Pont d’Aubevoye, comte de Lauberdière, a 21-year-old aide-de-camp to the comte de Rochambeau, tells us about everything from observing Quakers in Philadelphia and eating hoe cakes in Virginia, to dancing with the beauties of Newport and ducking British artillery shells in the trenches around Yorktown. He records big events and everyday details of life, customs, and mores of 1780s America. Thanks to the expert translation of this riveting diary by Norman Desmarais, Professor Emeritus at Providence College, Revolutionary War enthusiasts and general readers interested in American history can, for the first time, see Revolutionary America in all its religious, racial, and ethnic diversity through the eyes of this young French noble officer, join in his celebration of the victory at Yorktown, and follow his analysis of the unprecedented ‘truths’ driving the revolt he helped make a success.” ~Robert A. Selig, Ph.D, author of "Hussars in Lebanon! A Connecticut Town and Lauzun’s Legion during the American Revolution, 1780–1781"

“Lauberdière minutely details the arrival and movements of French forces for 1780-83. His memoir, in the form of a journal, provides insight into the critical importance of French troops in the American War of Independence. Desmarais’ work offers an indispensable resource for both students and scholars.”
~Lawrence M. Caylor, Dean, ret., The University of Texas–Pan American Library

"Page after page proves that there’s truly never a dull moment in Lauberdière’s journey through the states, placing this piece of history amongst the ranks of the Revolutionary War’s greatest diaries. . . . The footnotes accompanying almost every page are brilliantly annotated. . . . Norman Desmarais has edited and translated a legendary piece of history for the ages—bringing to light a brand new perspective of the American Revolution from a French eyewitness." ~The Colonial Review