You may be aware of the American Friends of Versailles—the extraordinary organization that helps preserve one of France’s most iconic landmarks—but are you aware of its deep connections to Chicago?
Today, I share this post in tribute to Catharine Cline Hamilton, the remarkable Chicago philanthropist and Francophile who founded the American Friends of Versailles (AFV). Sadly, Catharine passed away today (October 7, 2025), leaving behind a legacy of elegance, generosity, and cultural diplomacy that spanned continents.
As a fellow Chicagoan who had the pleasure of meeting Catharine through mutual friends, I have long admired her vision and dedication to both our city and our beloved France. The story of AFV’s founding is classic Catharine: during a visit to Versailles, she learned in conversation with Olivier de Rohan of the need for financial support to carry out several important projects. That moment sparked the creation of the AFV. Her legacy lives on not only in the stones and gardens of Versailles, but in the inspiration she leaves for all of us who value culture, generosity, and the enduring bond between Chicago and France.
Among her proudest achievements was leading the restoration of the Bosquet des Trois Fontaines, a centerpiece of Versailles’ gardens. Thanks to her tireless efforts, the fountains now sparkle once again, delighting visitors from around the world. The group went on to support several other restoration projects at Versailles, ensuring the palace and its gardens can be enjoyed for generations. All of us who have had the good fortune to stroll the gardens, pause by the waters, and watch the fountains dance to the rhythm of the Grandes Eaux musicales owe her a special debt of gratitude.
But Catharine’s influence extended far beyond Versailles. Here in Chicago, she was a devoted supporter of the Alliance Française de Chicago and a founding member of the Women’s Board of the AFC, championing programs that celebrated French language and culture. Her commitment helped nurture countless connections between Chicagoans and France, fostering the sort of cross-cultural understanding she so deeply valued.
But Catharine’s influence extended far beyond Versailles. Here in Chicago, she was a devoted supporter of the Alliance Française de Chicago and a founding member of its Women’s Board, championing programs that celebrated French language and culture. Her commitment helped nurture countless connections between Chicagoans and France, fostering the cross-cultural understanding she so deeply valued.
Catharine Hamilton was, in every sense, a true ambassadrice of goodwill—gracious, determined, and endlessly passionate about beauty, history, and education. The world is richer for her presence, and her legacy will continue to shimmer—both here in Chicago and beneath the sparkling waters of Versailles.
Merci infiniment, Catharine.
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