Dedicated to the Franco-American friendship and the preservation of beauty, culture and the arts.
It is an irony that a place whose existence owes so much to poetry and artistry is now almost indefinable by either. Versailles is an opus that transcends the vocabulary, perhaps even the imagination of its creators. It exists as an unparalleled and final statement that is likely never to be repeated.
In Memoriam, Mrs. David R. Hamilton
It is with profound gratitude and deep sorrow that we honor the life and legacy of Catharine Hamilton, the remarkable founder of American Friends of Versailles, who passed away. With vision, elegance, and boundless determination, Catharine built a bridge of friendship between France and the United States that will endure for generations. She believed that cultural heritage is not only to be admired, but to be preserved and shared. Under her leadership, AFV made possible extraordinary restorations at Versailles—gifts of beauty that will continue to inspire the world. More than a leader, Catharine was a cherished friend. Her wit, warmth, and indomitable Texas spirit lit every room she entered. She united people from both sides of the Atlantic with a shared purpose, reminding us that true diplomacy can be forged through culture, history, and love. As the new President of American Friends of Versailles, I am humbled to follow in her footsteps. Catharine leaves us with a legacy of vision and friendship that will guide our future and forever bind us to the place she loved so dearly. Versailles, and all of us who were blessed to know her, will carry her imprint always. Alicia Bryan, President, The American Friends of Versailles October 8, 2025
Pictured: Alicia Bryan, President of the American Friends of Versailles, with her children Eloise Haynes and J.P. Haynes at the Grand Trianon for AFV's 25th Anniversary celebration in June 2023.
The American Friends of Versailles (AFV) is a 501(c)3 charitable corporation for improving and promoting a positive American-French relationship. AFV serves as a sister organization to the long established Les Amis de Versailles. The express purpose of the corporation is to encourage support of the Palace of Versailles and its gardens. AFV raises funds for seminars, educational exchanges, and specific restoration projects within the Palace and its magnificent park.
RESTORATION PROJECTS
We’re excited to share a video from Versailles, where President Christophe Leribault and Curator Beatrice Sarrazin discuss the restoration of the ceiling in Louis XIV’s Salon de Diane, a highlight on the main visitors’ tour seen by millions annually. As one of today’s most significant art restoration projects, we hope it will resonate with your passion for preserving cultural heritage. The American Friends of Versailles is honored to be supporting this extraordinary undertaking and we are actively seeking donations to ensure its successful completion.
Please consider a donation to the American Friends of Versailles to help preserve the history and beauty of Versailles for future generations.