In Memoriam: Mrs. David R. Hamilton

The Public Establishment of the Château, Museum and National Estate of Versailles has learned with great sadness of the passing of Mrs. Catharine Hamilton, founder and former president of the American Friends of Versailles.

It is with deep sorrow that the Château de Versailles learned of the passing of Mrs. Catharine Hamilton, which occurred on October 7, 2025.

Mrs. Catharine Hamilton leaves behind an indelible mark on the history of patronage at the Château de Versailles, having founded and passionately led the American Friends of Versailles for 25 years.
During her presidency, from 1998 to 2023, the American Friends of Versailles ensured the funding of significant restoration and development projects at Versailles, including the major restorations of the Grove of the Three Fountains in 2002, the Pavillon Frais at Trianon in 2010, the Queen’s Guard Room in 2019, and finally the Queen’s Grove in 2021.

Through her commitment as head of the American Friends of Versailles, Mrs. Catharine Hamilton embodied the unbreakable bond that unites Versailles and the American people. Personally involved— her name has been inscribed among the Château’s major donors since 2004 —, she also succeeded in bringing together generous and passionate patrons, thus providing the Château with essential support that reflects the depth and vitality of this transatlantic friendship.

Upon stepping down from the presidency of the American Friends of Versailles, and in order to express its gratitude, the Château de Versailles awarded Mrs. Catharine Hamilton the American Philanthropy Prize in 2023, which honors American citizens most devoted to the Château.

Mr. Christophe Leribault, President of the Château de Versailles, extends, on behalf of the Public Establishment, his most sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Mrs. Catharine Hamilton.