AU COURANT -SPRING 2018 - SPECIAL EDITION GRANTS & PRESERVATION TRENDS - FRENCH HERITAGE SOCIETY
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Au Courant —Spring 2018
Special Edition
Château de Carneville Grants & Preservation Trends
2018 Grants | Young Owners Rise to the Challenge | Dîner des Mécènes
Stéphane Bern & Jean d’Haussonville | French Literary Award | Education
—Message from the Chairman
Vive l’amitié franco-américaine !
I was thrilled to be at the Welcome Ceremony for President Thanks to Yann Coantalem, Board Member of French Heritage
Emmanuel Macron of France on the White House South Lawn on Society, who submitted my name to the French Embassy for atten-
April 24th, 2018. It is not every day that one gets an invitation to the dance at this welcome to President Macron, I was honored to attend
White House! This was the first official state visit of a foreign dig- this impressive ceremony as your Chairman of French Heritage
nitary to the White House in President Donald Trump’s presidency. Society. It was full of pomp and circumstance and the inspiring music
No matter what each nation’s political agenda is, this warm welcome of our military bands. Yann and I stood on the side of the lawn with
was an admirable display of Franco-American friendship. I was proud the French Embassy attendees. I was so happy to have been adopted
to be there holding miniature flags of each country as proof of our by France for this special day. Vive l’amitié Franco-Américaine!
countries’ mutual affection.
From the time of the American Revolution to the Battle of Normandy,
France and America have been allies. French Heritage Society cel-
ebrates this friendship. FHS not only restores bricks and stones in
both France and throughout the USA in French inspired buildings,
but we equally support student exchange between our two countries. Elizabeth Stribling, Chairman
Friendships are forged through both restoration projects and summer French Heritage Society
internships. These meaningful, and in some instances transforma-
tive, foreign exchange contacts are just as important to us as beauti-
ful restored walls or gardens. At French Heritage Society, we try to
forge a better understanding of our respective cultures.
—1 James Brooks Jr., Elizabeth Stribling, Yann Coatanlem (back row) at The White House
—Message from the President
Old Stones and Young Ideas For the veteran of saving the cultural heritage that I am, how much
this world has changed in half a century!
the sixties and the beginning of the seventies, when high quality
historical heritage was sacrificed in the name of modernity and also
to make easy money.
In May ‘68, my baby-boomer generation spoke extravagantly with
iconoclastic slogans that sometimes had the edge of genius. Among 50 years later, how all that has changed for the better. Stéphane
the pearls of the time: “run comrade the Old World is behind you.” Bern, journalist and popular and iconoclastic columnist, within a
Everyone could interpret the slogans in their own way, the general two-month span appeared on the covers of both the weekly maga-
theme was to kill the ancient world to release energy, and “enjoy zines Le Point and then Paris-Match, with the same theme “I, like a
without limits” ... modern-day Zorro” will save the heritage of France !
So, yes, really the world of heritage was truly the old world, to be Admittedly, he is allowed this immodesty because he has the ear of
discarded ... Old stones and old people who occupied them, every- the Prince of the Elysée, Emmanuel Macron, who gave him the task
thing smelled of mothballs and it was time to get rid of them, or at of bringing about this noble goal. By the way, the French President,
least of get away from them ... just as iconoclastic, is certainly the first President of the French
Republic to openly display, since his inauguration in May 2017 in
This yearning for freedom was so universal that even Georges front of the Louvre, a Mecca of French Heritage under royalty as
Pompidou, the Prime Minister on the other side of the barricades, a well as under the Republic, his attachment to the heritage of France
“normalien” steeped in ancient culture, ostensibly turned his back and his commitment to defend it, as well as the whole European her-
on the “France of yesteryear”, that of cheeses and wines, perfumes itage as a shared culture and history. He therefore made Stéphane
and terroirs, to embrace modernity without nuance in all its aspects. Bern his “missi dominici” to save the Heritage of France.
On both sides of the barricades, everyone lived in an illusion, and All this is not just a “gesture” by exceptional figures. This is the tide
found common ground in the end in the rejection of the past. turning. This is what the veteran that I am has noted with relish.
50 years later we have turned away from the atmosphere of “old
50 years later how the world in general, and the world of heritage stones, old people” to enter that of “old stones-new ideas, and gen-
in particular, have changed! The sweeping aside did take place, the eral solidarity.”
old-timers (we post-war baby boomers) have grown old physically,
but intellectually and morally we have metamorphosed, we have rec- For lovers of old stones, especially my generation, it is Christmas
onciled ourselves with the past because we have rediscovered it with every day .... Because every day a new idea surfaces and the cre-
new eyes, freed from the codes of the past. And now we pass it on ativity dreamed of in our youth seems to be multiplying today.
to the world of thirty-somethings, very different from us because of Everywhere today young people in their thirties, at ease on the web
the technological innovations they use for a “new deal” for heritage. like an old squire who knows all the nooks and crannies of his old
stones, invent new concepts to create enthusiasm and solidarity
Let’s measure the “gust of youthfulness” experienced in the world of to save and give new life to these old stones. “I love my heritage”,
cultural heritage. When Eric Mansion-Rigau, renowned scholar and “Adopt a château”, “Patrivia” and “Dartagnans” are innovative
heritage specialist, released his book The Life of Châteaux, Development initiatives that create new avenues, generating income to restore and
and Uses of Private Châteaux in Contemporary France: Adaptation and support heritage in “the spirit of the times,” while giving a refreshing
Conversion Strategies, (1999) he described a world of the old, in stones boost to these old monuments, referring to today’s revered values,
and in arteries, nostalgic for a bygone era, reluctant to enter a new new mantras of “living together”, sharing but also associated with
The 13th-century Château de La Mothe-Chadeniers, purchased for 500,000 euros by 6,500 internet users.
It took just 80 days to raise the needed funds with this innovative campaign to save heritage in peril. world, a world of openness and sharing in which they had already financial viability ...
been invited, as of 1924, by the founder of La Demeure Historique,
Joachim Carvallo. The new generation of “owners / entrepreneurs” approach the issue
of heritage with a new spirit and tools that their predecessors did not
Yes, we, the young people of the sixties, turned our backs on this old benefit from. Finally, after the decadence, the rebirth?
world, very old-fashioned in our eyes, with its circles and old-fash-
ioned clubs, its dusty châteaux, its old stones that no longer made
us dream, as they were engulfed in a world of conventions and con-
straints that saturated us.
Even the Pompidou generation, with their degrees from Normale
Sup and / or ENA, was working to torpedo these old stones in the
name of modernity, profitable business, in the spirit of the so-called Denis de Kergorlay
“Gaullism real estate,” that destroyed so much in so little time. It
was, to give them the benefit of extenuating circumstances, a gen-
eral movement in Europe and in the world: never was so much de-
stroyed in Europe, in peacetime, then in these years at the end of Translated from French by Karen Archer
—2 —3
—Table of Contents
LA BOUTIQUE ARLAUX
Champagne time in Paris
01 Message from the Chairman
02 Message from the President
05 Table of Contents
Events
06 Dîner des Mécènes
08 Dîner des Mécènes - The Ritz
09 Dîner des Mécènes - Charitybuzz
10 Stéphane Bern
12 Jean d’Haussonville
Preservation Trends
14 Passing the Torch—A New Generation of Châteaux Owners
Grants
18 2018 Grants in France
23 2018 Grants in the U.S.
Education
24 Student Program
26 Literary Award
Cultural Trips
30 Trip to Bordeaux
31 Trip to Savannah & Beaufort
Past National & Chapter Events
32 Past National Events
34 Past Young Friends Circle Events
37 Past Chapter Events
The maison Arlaux, famous for its elegant champagnes, has just opened its new boutique
in the heart of Paris, an enticing place to indulge in the French life style.
44 Salon du Patrimoine / Corporate Patrons
Located at 350 rue Saint-Honoré, Paris 1er, near the Place Vendôme, the Arlaux boutique
offers delicious gourmet food, chocolates, biscuits, elegant champagne glasses, tableware
and, of course, the Arlaux Champagnes. Upon reservation, the shop turns into a tasting
workshop for groups of 5-10 people. Discover the history of Champagne, wine making and
the art of tasting with three different cuvées from the Arlaux winery.
FHS Members and Au Courant readers can purchase the curée spéciale “Dîner des Mécènes”
champagne served at the Ritz Paris for the dinner on May 28, 2018. With the first purchase,
you will receive as a gift the limited edition French Heritage Society champagne stopper.
For more information in France
tel.: +33 1 4707 4308 — contact@arlaux.fr
www.arlaux.fr
For more information in the United States of America
tel.: 888.686.8767 | 212.240.9553 — orders@vintryfinewines.com
www.vintryfinewines.com
—5
—Dîner des Mécènes
Paris Gala—Dîner des Mécènes Honoring Dinner Chairs
Stéphane Bern Valérie de Condé
Monday, May 28th, 2018 Jean d’Haussonville Sarah de Lencquesaing
Ritz Paris Cassandra Surer
Honorary Committee
Madame Raymond Audi
Madame Christiane Head-Maarek
Monsieur Charles-Marie Jottras and Madame Marie-Hélène Lundgreen
Comtesse Serge de La Bédoyère
Madame Astrid de La Presle-Bonnel
Baron et Baronne de Laroullière
Monsieur et Madame François Laurentin
Princesse de La Tour d’Auvergne, Présidente Emeritus
Baron et Baronne Antoine de Roquette-Buisson
Monsieur et Madame Henri Sahut
Evening Program
7:30 pm Cocktail Reception
8:30 pm Dinner and Presentation of FHS awards
to Stéphane Bern and Jean d’Haussonville
Musicians
Rapheal Lellouche (pianist), Paul Herry Pasmanian (bassist)
Event Sponsors
—6 —7
—Dîner des Mécènes —Dîner des Mécènes: CharityBuzz Auction
Timeless Elegance of the Ritz Online Auction at charitybuzz.com
Wednesday, May 23rd – Wednesday, June 6th
Nonetheless, the tone was set and the Paris Ritz quickly established
a reputation for unsurpassed luxury, with clients including royal-
ty, politicians, writers, film stars and singers. Many of its suites
are named in honor of famous guests of the hotel, including Coco
Chanel, the celebrated fashion designer who lived at the Ritz for
decades and decorated her suite herself. She was not alone, many
guests lived there for years. Sophia Loren declared it “the most
romantic hotel in the world.” And, of course, there was Ernest
Hemingway. The revered Bar Hemingway is devoted to the writer
who seemed to be a permanent fixture there when in Paris. Hôtel de Brighton Bar Hemingway (Ritz Paris) Monnaie de Paris The Pierre New York
L’Espadon is a world-renowned restaurant, attracting aspiring chefs
from all over the world who come to learn at the adjacent Ritz- ———————————————— Built In the beginning of the 19th century, Gain exclusive access to the Monnaie de
Escoffier School. The grandest suite of the hotel, the Suite Impériale, Help support FHS’ mission! the Hôtel Brighton offers sublime views of Paris led by the museum’s curator
has views over Place Vendôme and a room that is a replica of the All proceeds from our online the Tuileries garden and some of Paris’ most You and four guests can discover the won-
one at Versailles that belonged to Queen Marie- Antoinette. It has auctions will help fund our grants famous monuments. Its rooms and suites derful world of la Monnaie de Paris in a
been listed by the French government as a national monument in and programming. are decorated with antique furniture, offer- special private tour led by the museum’s
its own right. ———————————————— ing charm and elegance in classic Parisian curator. The recipient of an FHS grant, the
style. Conveniently located in the heart of French mint is the oldest continuously-op-
During the Second World War, the hotel was taken over by the Learn the art of mixology with Colin Saint-Germain-des-Près, Hôtel des Saints- erating enterprise in the world. Its museum,
Germans as the local headquarters of the Luftwaffe. The hotel Field, Head Bartender at the Ritz Paris’ Pères will host you in the “Chambre à la known as the Musée du Conti, reopened
kept up standards even during the darkest days of the war. The fabled Hemingway Bar Fresque” (Fresco Room) for two nights. last Fall and features exclusive pieces of
Germans treated the Ritz with the utmost respect. All weapons Bid to win a private mixology masterclass You will live an exceptional experience metallic work and other historical wonders.
were checked at a kiosk outside the building, only high-ranking of- for two with Colin Field, Head Bartender in this historic room with its 17th century
ficers were allowed – but never in uniform - as the Ritz cultivated an at the Ritz Paris. Named “The World’s Best painting adorning the ceiling.
air of neutrality – a luxurious mini-Switzerland within a turbulent Bartender” by Forbes and Travel & Leisure Unwind at The Pierre during a
Paris. Thinkers, artists and writers thronged there as well and Pablo magazines, Colin Field is an expert at craft- glamorous New York stay
Picasso was a regular guest. It is no wonder that The Ritz would ing unique cocktails that reflect the worldly Immerse yourself in the fascinating Escape into the white gloved elegance
become the center of the French resistance. Its legendary barman, tastes of the Ritz’ visitors. He is the creative world of gems with Emmanuel Piat, of The Pierre for a three-night stay for 2.
Frank Meier, penned the classic The Artistry of Mixing Drinks and ran force behind cocktails such as the Picasso expert in colored stones Woven into the rich history and fabric of the
a secret message drop behind the bar where he invented cocktails Martini, Highland Cream, Serendipity and Discover the extraordinary beauty of pre- Upper East Side, the Pierre offers unparal-
such as the lethal “Rainbow.” When the Americans came to liberate the Clean Dirty Martini. Your two-hour cious stones during a private guided tour leled service to its guests, steps away from
the city, there was a fresh round of festive celebrations in the Ritz’s introductory class will unveil the secrets of with Emmanuel Piat, expert in colored Madison Avenue and Museum Mile. Look
“When I dream of afterlife in heaven, the action always takes place plush corridors. mixology in an unforgettable setting, The stones and Director of Maison Piat. During out over the expanse of Central Park within
in the Paris Ritz.” Ritz’ Hemmingway Bar, nicknamed “the your exclusive tour of his Parisian work- the luxurious comfort of the Pierre before
—Ernest Hemingway Because of its status as a symbol of high society and luxury, a place venerated chapel of cocktail dens” by The shop, you will have a chance to experience enjoying dinner at the Pierre’s signature
unlike any other in popular culture, the hotel has been featured Observer. You will have the opportuni- Maison Piat’s exceptional lapidary savoir- restaurant, Perrine.
in many notable works of fiction, including F. Scott Fitzgerald’s ty to perfect your craft with two copies of faire as well as its extraordinary collection
The Paris Ritz – these three words evoke images of luxury, re- novel Tender Is The Night and Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises, Colin Field’s book “The Ritz Paris: Mixing of precious gems. For several decades,
finement and elegance the world over. Giving on the spectacular Noël Coward’s play Semi-Monde, and films such as Billy Wilder’s drinks, a simple story”, beautifully illustrat- Maison Piat has specialized in the search We thank our generous donors, including:
18th-century Place Vendôme, it is among the most luxurious hotels 1957 comedy Love in the Afternoon with Audrey Hepburn and Gary ed by Sophie Varela. for rare natural stones of superlative qual-
in the world. It reopened in June 2016 after a major four-year, mul- Cooper and William Wyler’s How to Steal a Million. ity, including Kashmir sapphires, Burmese FEAU&Cie
timillion-dollar renovation in order to attain the ‘Palace’ distinction. rubies, Colombian emeralds and many oth- Hôtels & Demeures Esprit de France
The hotel was founded in 1898 by the Swiss hotelier, César Ritz, in After the death of César Ritz’s son, Charles, in 1976, the last mem- Enjoy a 4-night Parisian getaway ers. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to Jardin Botanique de Vauville
collaboration with the celebrated French chef, Auguste Escoffier. bers of the Ritz family to own the hotel sold it to the Egyptian busi- at Hôtel Brighton and Hôtel des discover the many facets behind the beauty La Réserve Paris – Hotel, Spa
The new hotel was constructed behind the façade of an 18th-centu- nessman Mohamed Al-Fayed in 1979. Diana, Princess of Wales, Saints-Pères of high-end jewelry with one of the world’s and Apartments
ry townhouse and was among the first hotels in Europe to provide dined in the hotel’s Imperial Suite shortly before her fatal car crash Plan the perfect Paris getaway with this leading experts. Maison de Champagne Arlaux
electricity, a telephone, and a bathroom en suite in each room. The in 1997. special package of two stays in emblemat- Monnaie de Paris
baths were huge as they had been changed to “king size” after King ic Parisian hotels, including VIP greetings. Piat
Edward VII got wedged in the tub and had to be helped out by two As Coco Chanel once famously said, “Fashion fades, only style re- You will be spending two nights at Hôtel The Pierre New York, a Taj Hotel
accommodating valets, as the story goes. mains the same.” And the Ritz is even more stylish than ever. Brighton, one of the first Parisian hotels. The Ritz Paris
—8 —9
—Preservation Trends
Stéphane Bern
“Monsieur Patrimoine”
FHS is proud to honor Stéphane Bern and Jean d’Haussonville at its Not content just to promote heritage on television, radio or in books,
Diner des Mécènes this spring. Both are major players in the world Stéphane Bern is not afraid to roll up his sleeves and take a hands-
of historic preservation in France, and more importantly with the on-approach to this restoration projects that he calls “the work of
many challenges facing owners of historic buildings today, they are my life.” So he knows first-hand the challenges facing France’s pub-
also innovative and passionate about the cause. Each in his own way lic and private historic buildings and châteaux and the struggles of
is contributing to bringing about a new path forward to ensure the their owners not only to restore and maintain them, but to infuse
survival of the architectural gems that attest to a cultural heritage them with life and purpose as well. In 2016 he created The Stéphane
unique in the world. Bern Foundation for History and Heritage, under the umbrella of
the Institut de France to support research by young historians, and
Stéphane Bern’s tireless professional and personal advocacy for finance concrete actions in favor of heritage.
French heritage have earned him the affectionate nick-name
“Monsieur Patrimoine” and a well-deserved national and even in- Further engagement came by way of President Emmanuel Macron
ternational reputation. What better way to describe Stéphane Bern’s who last September gave Bern the official mission of drawing up a
fervent commitment to preserving, protecting and sharing France’s list of monuments and buildings in danger. He was instructed to give
historic heritage than in his own words. He speaks about a personal priority to identifying the unknown treasures of French heritage,
project very dear to his heart, the former Royal and Military College those that private owners or municipalities struggle to maintain. But
of Thiron-Gardais (an hour-and-a-half west of Paris). the Élysée also made another request of Bern: propose new ways to
finance these restorations that the state can no longer afford.
“Over the years, by presenting my programs “Secrets of History”,
“The Favorite Village of the French” and “The Favorite Monument of Stéphane Bern came up with the idea of a Loto du Patrimoine, a
the French” or more recently “Private Tours” on France 2, I became national lottery. He hopes to raise 15 to 20 million euros from Lotto
aware of the crucial challenge for all of us to defend our national and a scratch game to support these monuments in danger that will
heritage. When the State proposed to me at the end of 2012 to buy be sold during European Heritage Days in mid-September. This in-
the former Royal and Military College of Thiron-Gardais, I could novative way of raising funds to support heritage in France is a bet on
not say no to this exhilarating challenge. The buildings had been the future to safeguard the past and the opportunity for the average
abandoned for eight years and were at risk of deteriorating further. person to contribute and feel involved.
When I purchased it in February 2013, I committed myself to reno-
vating this historical monument as a whole, to open a museum ded- According to the Minister of Culture, Françoise Nyssen, “a quar-
icated to the eleven Royal and Military Colleges of France (created ter of protected monuments are considered in poor condition and
in 1776) in the old 17th-century classrooms and to open this restored 5%, about 2,000 monuments, are considered in jeopardy.” But Bern
heritage - in its natural setting - to the public, in order to restore it remains optimistic, and enthusiastic. He recently stated that “ev-
in its unique entirety (with the gardens, the abbey and the college) erything is going great. The commitment of the President of the
which constitutes the old abbey for which the ninth centenary of its Republic is extremely important. Finally, we have found a president
founding was celebrated on June 8, 2014. who loves heritage. “ A list of 250 monuments that will receive aid
from this new national lottery was released at the end of March, with
It is this mission that I have set for myself, feeling more like a repos- two grants supported by French Heritage Society this year making
itory of historical heritage than its exclusive owner, and I am happy the list: the Château de Carneville and the Château du Taillis, both
to share this crazy adventure with you.” in Normandy – and both with young, dynamic owners.
—10 Stéphane Bern at the former Royal and Military College of Thiron-Gardais —11
—Preservation Trends
Jean d’Haussonville
Cultural Diplomacy
The Château de Chambord, the largest château in the Loire Valley, village were acquired by the State because the whole is so exception-
is built in the heart of the largest enclosed forest park in Europe al: it is the only royal domain that has survived intact in France to
with a 32 km long wall surrounding some 5,440 hectares (that is this day. But the management of the place is complex because there
to say the area of the city of Paris). The domain encompasses 200 is both an architectural gem, a town born after the Revolution, an
hectares of agricultural land, a village spread over 15 hectares, and extraordinary natural space and presidential hunts that attract the
160 hectares of game meadows. The domain is under the protection powerful and the well-connected. Hence a stack of ministerial su-
of the President of the French Republic, like the Invalides and the pervision that did not favor a sound administration of the domain.
Legion of Honor. The director of the Domaine de Chambord uses
striking language to convey his feelings about the place: “Chambord D’Haussonville has overseen clarification of the domain’s adminis-
is a château that dances!” declares Jean d’Haussonville. trative status in order to proceed with development and fundraising
plans. “We had five objectives: to achieve 100% self-financing of the
But Chambord is far more than just a château. The National Domain operation of the estate; to reconstitute the national hunting and wild-
of Chambord is a unique architectural and natural ensemble in life reserve by scientific methods and an opening to patronage for the
France which has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since battues; to continue the cultural programming that I put in place in
1981. It is also a national wildlife and hunting reserve that is home 2010 through exhibitions, residencies of artists, invitations to music
to many animals representative of the fauna of the region, including festivals, to re-equip Chambord for the reception and accommoda-
wild boar and deer. About 800 hectares are accessible all year round tion of the public; and finally, to diversify the resources, such as by
to the public, to enjoy marked hiking trails or bike paths. planting vineyards or managing the parks. Replanting a vineyard
on the estate is a way to encourage wine tourism while maintaining
D’Haussonville, a diplomate skilled at navigating complicated ad- biodiversity. The domain is part of a range of values that combines
ministrative waters, arrived at Chambord in 2010. “My appointment built heritage, nature, hunting, vineyards and agriculture” he stresses.
was the result of a decision of the Council of Ministers. The position
of Director General and Commissioner for Planning is above all a Another important point was the renewal of the national reserve
heritage and cultural post, which corresponded to my career since I of hunting and wildlife thanks to the financing of the battues by
had been a cultural advisor in Berlin and a member of the Cabinet patronage. The latter is not limited to hunts: from 100 000 euros of
of the Minister of Culture for three years.” sponsorship per year in 2010, this has increased to more than 1 mil-
lion since 2014, and in the three years since that has gone up to 2.5
King Francis I decided on the construction of the Château de million euros per year. This is a huge change, which is contributing
Chambord in 1519 on marshy land, on the banks of the Cosson River steadily to the domain’s goals toward self-financing its operations.
and in the center of a very game-rich forest, to make it “a large, beauti-
ful and sumptuous building.” A building that will allow him to satisfy As Chambord prepares to celebrate its 500th anniversary in
his passion for hunting. Heavily influenced by the Italian arts and art- September 2019, an architectural residency offered through FHS’
ists, King Francis I built a château that combines the French and Italian Student Exchange Program was established. One FHS architect in
influences. Due to the defeat in Pavia during the sixth Italian War, the residence was there last year and two more have been selected for
work was interrupted between 1522 and 1526. Upon Francis I’s return, this summer. These young American architects will spend a few
work resumed without stopping for 20 years, until his death in 1547. months living in Chambord in order to put forth projects on the
theme “If Chambord had been completed…” This is just one of the
The sheer magnitude of Chambord and its vast domain poses special numerous initiatives that Jean d’Haussonville has put in place to
administrative and funding challenges. In 1930, park, château and bring life, vitality and sustainability to Chambord.
—12 Jean d’Haussonville at Chambord —13
—Preservation Trends
Passing the Torch – A New Generation
of Châteaux Owners Rises to the Challenge
Château de Carneville’s interior stripped to fight the spread of fungus
Several of the grants awarded by French Heritage Society this spring changed all his plans - and now it is a question of the very survival
were given to private châteaux that have at their helm a new gener- of this historic château. The fungus has spread to 18 rooms over
ation of young, dynamic owners. They are for the most part unbur- 400m2, nearly half of the château, and attacked parquet floors and
dened by family history and expectations, in many cases having had woodwork that require specialized treatment. Walls and flooring
no previous ties to the châteaux they have made it their mission to are being torn out and treated before being replaced and restored.
save, restore and revitalize. They bring with them a clear vision of Saving the château of his dreams comes with a considerably price
the world of today, how to communicate, create a “buzz” around tag – nearly 900,000 € (over a million dollars).
their estates and become innovative actors in the cultural and eco-
nomic lives of their regions. This is a portrait of some of them. But recently some encouraging news was received. In late March
President Emmanuel Macron approved an initial list of monuments
Guillaume Garbe looks more like the son, or even grandson, of the that will benefit from the future drawing of the new national lottery
lord of the manor rather than the lord himself. He was just 21 when for heritage and appear on regional scratch tickets. Carneville will rep-
he fulfilled a childhood dream by purchasing, with his mother, the resent Normandy for this new major initiative to aid French heritage
Château de Carneville on the Cotentin peninsula of Normandy, not in peril, which is led by journalist and television star Stéphane Bern.
far from the English Channel. The château was built around 1755
and covers 900 square meters with another 2000 square meters of Nicolas Navarro, the young owner of the Château du Taillis, which
outbuildings and a seven-hectare park. is also in Normandy not far from Rouen, has had an atypical ca-
reer. Instead of pursuing his passion as an archaeologist, he now
A young son of an antique dealer, and an antique dealer himself, works full-time to save and restore this château, the only vestige in
Guillaume and his father had often admired this estate behind its Normandy of the second Italian Renaissance style. Purchased by
iron gates, closed to the world but full of mystery and possibilities. Nicolas Navarro’s parents in 1998, it was in a sad state, especially
He was fully aware of the financial cost of maintaining and restor- the exteriors. After decades of abandonment the buildings were in
ing such a building when he took it on yet he had enormous en- peril. The park and its gardens had almost disappeared under the
thusiasm and great plans to develop the site and open it up to the vegetation. Nicolas undertook restoration work while respecting
public for events and receptions. The estate contains an 18th-century the history of the building, using ancient materials and ancestral
bakery in a historic out-building that is the only shop in the village. restoration techniques, to restore the property as it was in the late
In 2016 a devastating fungus spread through the château and 18th century.
—14 Guillaume Garbe at the Château de Carneville —15
—Preservation Trends
A WWII re-enactment at the château Nicolas Navarro at the Château du Taillis with his sons
“We do a lot of work ourselves,” he confesses, “the rest is done by The Penthièvre estate is made up of a 17th-century château and
local craftsmen, who themselves teach me some of their skills.” an 18th-century mill that is still active. The château has a presti-
Faced with this gigantic task he confides: “To manage all this, first gious past but had been shuttered for long periods more recently. It
I organize the rotation of the work sites, doing the emergency work was built in 1636 for “La Grande Mademoiselle,” the Duchess of
first, then the work to make the château more comfortable to live Montpensier, one of the most powerful and influential women of her
in.” Nicolas won an award for his restoration efforts as a “jeune re- time, granddaughter of King Henri IV and Queen Marie de Medici.
preneur” or young owner who has taken over a historic château. It
is also a sign of the times that this award exists, and that there are Ariane Audigier, the young new owner, wants to make this area
many new young owners vying for it. a “place of cultural, tourism and ecological activity in the Seine-
Maritime region.” The château had never before been opened to
Among the income-generating activities to cover the work and the public until last year, thanks to Ariane, a successful business
maintenance of the château, Nicolas organizes private and pro- woman who purchased the estate and now lives there with her hus-
fessional receptions, cultural and historical events, visits with an band and children.
Enlightenment theme, commemorations of May 8, 1945, has a mu-
seum dedicated to August 1944 and stages WWII re-enactments. The 18th-century mill, built in the same style as the château, along-
“All these visitors encourage us in this adventure,” concludes the side the river, will play a key role for the estate’s development and
26-year old chatelain. He also organizes murder parties, with guests for public access. Once restored, groups will be received for events
dressed in costumes to solve murder mysteries along the lines of the and receptions on the ground floor of the building. The active mill,
professor in the library with a candlestick. whose hydraulic system is classified, will be used as a hydro-elec-
tric plant to produce green energy in this very scenic region where
The Château de Taillus was also selected for support from the na- eco-tourism is taking off.
tional lottery being put in place this year, another sign of encourage-
ment as restoration work continues on the vast estate. All these projects represent the wave of the future, and similar en-
deavors are taking place all over France. They are bringing new
The Château de Penthièvre and its mill are located in a small town energy, dynamism and business skills to the cause of historic pres-
situated in the valley of the Bresle River which flows into the English ervation and infusing these buildings with life and a new-found
Channel at Tréport and forms the border between Normandy and purpose. The next time you knock on the door of a château for a
Picardy. Forestry, farming, and light industry are the main econom- visit, be sure not to confuse the young owner with the grandson of
ic activities. the lord of the manor.
—16 —17 The 17th-century Château de Penthièvre with its 18th-century mill—2018 Grants in France
2018 Grants
Exceptional Projects on Both Sides of the Atlantic
Support for restoration projects in France and the U.S. has always been
at the heart of French Heritage Society’s mission. With the new grants
announced for 2018, over the past 36 years FHS has awarded some 586
restoration grants for $21.2 million including matching funds. This year,
thanks to support from The Florence Gould Foundation, The Danny
Kaye and Sylvia Fine Kaye Foundation, additional anticipated support Château de Meung-sur-Loire (Loiret) Château du Taillis (Seine Maritime)
from foundations and private donors, and, of course, support from its $20,000—Boston Chapter $15,000—Atlanta Chapter
11 Chapters, FHS continues to affirm its vital role in historic preserva- Restoration project: roof and stonework of the 18th-century pavilion and Restoration project: the half-timbered Chaplain’s house from the 15th century,
tion on both sides of the Atlantic. north tower. one of the oldest parts of the estate.
Built in 1209 with subsequent additions, this is the oldest château in The central body of the château was built in 1540 in the Second
15 projects have been selected so far in 2018; 13 Restoration Grants and the Loiret still in its original state. With over $1 million in restoration Renaissance style. It is influenced by the artists employed for the
two Cultural Grants for a total of $523,000. work done since 2010, the château represents a strong commitment to construction of the Renaissance tombs in the Cathedral of Rouen.
heritage and investment in the tourism sector for the region. Near the Normandy Landing Beaches, major WWII re-enactments
are often staged here. Taillis has also been selected to represent
Normandy and will benefit from the future drawing of the new
national lottery for heritage in peril.
Château de Bourron (Seine et Marne)
$20,000—Paris Chapter Château de Carneville (Manche) Château de Caumont (Gers)
Restoration project: the central horse-shoe staircase. $20,000—Atlanta and Paris Chapters $15,000—New York and Northern California Chapters
With it regional architecture of brick and stone, this elegant Restoration project: The entire structure must be treated and restored due to Restoration project: restoration of the impressive Renaissance gallery is
17th-century château is a fine example of Henri IV - Louis XIII the spread of a devastating fungus (la mérule). required, including a major support beam which is at risk of falling and Manoir d’Agnès Sorel (Seine Maritime)
style. Its pavilions and horseshoe staircase have earned it the name When this 18th-century château was purchased by a young antique endangering the entire gallery. $10,000—Northern California Chapter
“le petit Fontainebleau.” dealer when he was only 21, it was a dream come true. He soon The château was built in the 16th-century after the owner’s return Restoration project: the roof and frame of the main body of the manor-house
faced the invasion of devasting fungus that requires urgent and from the Wars in Italy where he fought alongside King François that are in a state of advanced deterioration.
massive treatment of the structure in order to save it. Carneville I. This explains the presence of this Renaissance gem in the Gers Agnès Sorel’s Manor dates from 1325 and was an out-building of the
has been selected to represent Normandy and will benefit from the region. Caumont has been selected to represent the Gers region and abbey of Jumièges. Agnès Sorel’s stay and her death here contribute
future drawing of the new national lottery for heritage in peril. will benefit from the future drawing of the new national lottery for to its notoriety. Her influence was immense in the political conduct
heritage in peril. of King Charles VII’s reign and she was present in Normandy by
his side at the end of the battle to reconquer these lands from the
English.
—18 —19—2018 Grants in France
Château d’Esquelbecq (Nord) Château de Vendeuvre Gardens (Calvados) Moulin de Penthièvre (Seine Maritime)
$10,000—Dallas Chapter $10,000—New York Chapter $4,000 —Atlanta Chapter
Restoration project: the octagonal dovecot built in 1606 that faces the château Restoration project: The ornamental wrought-iron gate made in the first half Restoration project: The 18th-century mill will be transformed by the creation
and features a typical Flemish bulb-shaped slate roof with a flag-shaped of the 18th-century that is in a perilous state. of a hydro-electric plant to favor green energy and the creation of a reception
weather vane. Built in 1741 on the plans of Jacques François Blondel, the celebrated hall. The current grant will restore the mill’s façade facing the river.
Considered a singularly representative monument of Flemish archi- 18th-century architect, the château has been transmitted from father The estate is made up of a 17th-century château and an 18th-century
tecture in the north of France, the château is characterized by a to son ever since and kept its original decor and part of its original mill that is still active. The château was built in 1636 for “La Grande
13th-century medieval plan, eight towers and striking crow stepped furniture. It features important collections and notable gardens. Mademoiselle”, the Duchess of Montpensier, one of the most power-
gable-end roofs. ful and influential women of her time, granddaughter of King Henri
IV and Queen Marie de Medici.
Basilique du Sacrée Cœur de Balata (Martinique)
Prieuré Sainte Victoire (Bouches du Rhône) $5,000—Louisiana Chapter
$10,000—New York Chapter Restoration project: the statue of Christ with outstretched arms that crowns Cultural Grant
Restoration project: As the buildings have been restored, the mountain top the church. $5,000 with the support to the Danny Kaye and Sylvia Fine Kaye
cliffs need to be stabilized to prevent stones from dislodging and rolling down From its dominant position facing the Bay of Fort-de-France, the Foundation
the mountainside. church attracts more than 200,000 U.S. visitors of the 600,000 Cultural project: to aid in purchasing photo rights for a book in
The construction of the priory started in 1654 and was completed total visitors each year. More commonly called the “Montmartre progress by a noted author on the Seine River.
thanks to a wealthy inhabitant from Aix-en-Provence. A popular Martiniquais”, the church, a miniature replica of Sacré-Coeur in
pilgrimage site, the priory welcomes more than 60,000 visitors a Paris, was built between 1923 and 1925 on the spectacular heights
year. The montagne Sainte Victoire has inspired many artists, most of the city. It is FHS’ first grant to the French overseas territories.
notably Cézanne who made 80 paintings of the site.
—20 —21—2018 Grants in France —2018 Grants in the U.S.
2018 Grants in the U.S.
In Honor of New Orleans’ Tricentennial
In celebration of the tricentennial of the founding of New Orleans this year, FHS
is pleased to award a restoration and a cultural grant in the Crescent City.
Restoration Grant to Degas House (New Orleans, LA) Cultural Grant to the New Orleans
$20,000—all FHS Chapters Museum of Art
Bibliothèque Nationale de France (French National Library - Though Degas was born in Paris, both his mother, a Creole, and $5,000—New York Chapter
Paris) grandmother were born in New Orleans. He spent the winter of In celebration of the tricentennial of the
$354,000 with the support of The Florence Gould Foundation 1872–73 in the Degas mansion, the home of his maternal relatives, the city that bears his regal title, NOMA will
Restoration project: This Mazarine Gallery, which, once restored, will be Musson family, prominent cotton brokers in New Orleans. He painted present an exhibition of selections from
the showcase for a new museum and centerpiece of the future visitors’ circuit. nearly 30 paintings during his stay, including a very famous canvas, the magnificent personal collection of
It will open in 2021 for the tricentennial of the installation of the BnF in its Cotton Exchange at New Orleans which shows his uncle’s office. French nobleman Philippe II, the Duke
historic Richelieu site. The restoration project is an immense undertaking of Orléans. This international loan exhi-
not only to restore the 17th-century site, but to link it to the already restored Restoration project: This restoration project concerns the reproduc- bition will bring together masterpieces by
19th-century half of the BnF to integrate the whole into a single coherent site tion and installation of a cast-iron fence around the property in keep- Veronese, Valentin, Poussin, Rubens, and
widely open to the public. Its goal is to place the BnF on par with the other ing with the original one in place in the 1870s. The fence will give Rembrandt that formerly graced the walls
great libraries of the world such as the Library of Congress and the British the property a more authentic period look and tie together the two of the Palais Royal in Paris.
Library. The prestigious Louis XV Salon will also be undergoing restoration. buildings that were separated in the 1920s.
—22 —23 Degas House in New Orleans; Portrait of Philippe d’Orléans, Duke of Orléans, in 1717, a year before the founding of the city that bears his name—Education
Student Exchange Program 2018 Student Program in France and the U.S.
Exceptional Life-Changing Opportunies in 2018
13 Americans Students interning in France 16 French Students interning in the US
University of Chicago Princeton University Ecole du Louvre Ecole Nationale Supérieur du
Nancy THEBAUT Maddi ROSS Mathilde ALMAYRAC Paysage
Musée Carnavalet Château de Commarque Historic New England, Siti AHMED
Boston, MA Saint Anthony’s Garden,
Cornell University Smith College New Orleans, LA
Lois NGUYEN Lucy Hall Madeleine BALANSINO
Potager du Roi, Versailles Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte Historic New Orleans Collection, Olivier CHENEVIER
LA Magnolia Garden,
University of Georgia Tulane University Charleston, SC
Garrett FORD Margaret Fowler McCrummen Alice BALAZY
Château d’Acquigny Musée d’Orsay, Paris Louisiana State Museum, Alexandre COQUERILLE
Château de Canisy New Orleans, LA Chicago Botanic Garden,
School of the Art Institute of Chicago, IL
Abby BURTS Chicago (SAIC) Salomé DUDEMAINE
Château de Brécy Melis SIMSEK Fashion Institute of Technology, Hugo DECOUX
Château de la Bourdaisière Architect Residency NYC Magnolia Garden,
Château de Vauville Château de Chambord Charleston, SC
Justine JEAN
Harvard University Skye TAYLOR Museum of Art & Design, NYC Margaux L’EQUILBEC
Saskia KELLER Architect Residency Lyndhurst Estate,
Château de Fontainbleau Château de Chambord Yohan MAINGUY Tarrytown, NY
Magnolia Garden WWII Museum
New Orleans, LA Pauline MECCHI
Eleis LESTER Middleton Place,
Parc de Bagatelle Angéline PETIT Charleston, SC
Laura Plantation,
Middlebury College Vacherie, LA Marie RUFFIER-MONET
Caroline GODARD Longwood Gardens,
Château de Gizeux Margaux RUAUD Kennett Square, PA
Château de Montréal Lyndhurst Estate,
Tarrytown, NY
The magnificent gardens at Middleton Place in Charleston, SC will welcome a French intern from the Ecole Nationale Supérieur du Paysage
Mathilde TOLLET
Preservation Society of Newport
County, Newport, RI
French Heritage Society is offering 29 American and French students Diane de Roquette Buisson and Amy Fienga have forged a number
prestigious internships in museums, historic châteaux and gardens as of remarkable new partnerships this year in France with the parc
part of its Student Exchange Program this summer. As we continue de Bagatelle (Paris) and the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte (Seine-et-
to help train tomorrow’s leaders in heritage preservation, we thank Marne) and in the U.S. with Longwood Gardens (PA.).
the Florence Gould Foundation as well as private donors for their
generous support. FHS offers stipends which allow French students
to benefit from internships in the U.S. and American students to
come France. Many of these students are already studying for their
Masters degrees.
—24 —25—Education
The French Heritage Literary Award 2018 Winner
“Finding Fontainebleau: An American Boy in France” by Thad Carhart
The author of The Piano Shop on the Left Bank (2001) returns Do you think that your life would have been fundamentally
with another celebration of France. When his family moved to different without the connection you have established with
Fontainebleau in 1954 Thad Carhart was just four. His father was France, both as a boy and as an adult?
a staff officer for the headquarters of NATO command, housed in
the Château de Fontainebleau. The author and his four siblings “My immersion in French during the years in Fontainebleau
were enrolled in French schools, where they had to learn the changed everything. Children aren’t given a vote in such matters;
language quickly. Having returned to live in France as an adult, it just happened. As with anyone who grows up conversant in two
Carhart intertwines chapters explaining the 900-year history of the languages, it altered the way I look at the world, in big ways and
château with delightful tales of France in the 1950s. small. It meant that I developed a healthy skepticism for occasional
French posturing, but also an abiding affection for a country that
This compelling story will surely lure its share of Carhart’s curious is far more beguiling than the prevalent ideas of many outsiders
countrymen and others to discover the often-overlooked treasure would suggest. I don’t regard myself as a missionary for things
of the Château of Fontaniebleau with its timeless secrets. The French, but I do enjoy telling stories that allow others to appreciate
author shared some insights into his book, his love of France and the human qualities that still set France apart.”
his joy in writing with Karen Archer, FHS’ Deputy Director.
You came back to live in Paris as an adult along with your own
In Finding Fontainebleau: An American Boy in France, Fontainebleau family. Why?
seems to represent France and the château its long history and
rich culture. How did living there as a boy shape your view of “I came back to Paris because I got a good job there! But it’s no
the world and of yourself? coincidence that it happened to be France, since I was f luent
in French and that made me a much stronger candidate for the
“My story is two-fold: the account of living in this remarkable town job I took. We hadn’t intended to stay indefinitely, but what we
as a boy, going to French schools, visiting Paris on weekends; and discovered was that Paris was a wonderful place to raise children
my return to the Château as a grown-up when I was able to witness (our children were toddlers when we moved there.) And so the
significant parts of the ongoing restoration of its rooms by French advantages were immediate, and grew over the years, in big ways
experts. I think there’s an inherent allure about the site that will and small, to the point where we’ve been here for 29 years now!
capture the imagination of readers once they know the contours That shouldn’t really surprise me, I suppose, but it does seem like
of the story.” a great and lucky turn in the road so many years ago.”
“I lived there as a child, and so there has always been a gravitational What place does nostalgia hold for you as a man and as a writer?
pull to a place that had such a strong effect on my early life. I came
to understand the extraordinary importance of Fontainebleau as “I try to avoid nostalgia in my work and in my life. I find that it’s
a site only as an adult. In that sense my arc has been from the often the close cousin of sentimentality, which all too often leads
happenstance of childhood to the appreciation that an adult can to muddy thinking — and muddy writing. One of the things I like
bring to bear only after learning much more about France.” about the French is that they tend to be clear-eyed and unsentimental
about things, while still being warm and fun (especially among their
families.) They respect their shared past, but they also tend to have
a good idea of what its ups and downs have been. That strikes me
as a fine way to approach one’s life and work, both.”
—26 Author Thad Carhart at his office in Paris © Simo Neri —27—Education
Second Annual French Heritage Literary Award
A Rich Selection of Works
What is your greatest joy as a writer? French Heritage Society’s French Heritage Literary Award was “When Paris Sizzled: the 1920s Paris of Hemingway, Chanel, Cocteau,
recently announced for the second year. Through this award, FHS Cole Porter, Josephine Baker, and their Friends” by Mary McAuliffe
“My greatest joy as a writer is to see the finished product — recognizes and honors a work of literary, scholarly or aesthetic This book vividly portrays the City of Light during the fabulous
that magical object called a BOOK! — when it’s been polished distinction that illuminates either an important element of French 1920s, when art and architecture, music, literature, fashion,
and packaged and sent out into the world. There aren’t many cultural or historical patrimony. entertainment, transportation, and behavior all took dramatically
satisfactions in my experience akin to that sense of accomplishment new forms.
and closure: you tell the story you have to tell, and then you leave The esteemed jury this year was comprised of Laura Auricchio,
it to readers to explore its territory on their own. That said, along Professor of Art History at Parsons School of Design; Anne Poulet, “The Pen and the Brush: How Passion for Art Shaped Nineteenth-
the way there’s an ancillary joy that keeps me motivated: the Director Emerita of The Frick Collection; and Elaine Sciolino, Century French Novels” by Anka Muhlstein
sheer delight of doing the research itself. I find this fascinating, contributing writer and former Paris bureau chief for The New York 19th-century French novelists were quite literally obsessed with
challenging, and endlessly enriching. After all, going deep into a Times. painters and painting, from Stendhal, Flaubert, the Goncourt
subject that you find engaging is a wonderful way to spend one’s brothers, Anatole France, Huysmans, Maupassant, Mirbeau, and
time. You’re constantly learning things you didn’t know from a At the ceremony on May 17th at the Colony Club in New York, of course Proust.
whole range of people who often are even more expert than you American author Thad Carhart was officially announced as the
suspect. The writer’s job, of course, is to draw out their insights 2018 winner and received a $5,000 cash prize along with and “How the French Saved America: Soldiers, Sailors, Diplomats, Louis
and comments, and make them part of the story.” an award goblet designed by Thomas Jefferson while serving as XVI, and the Success of a Revolution” by Tom Shachtman
Minister to France. During the event, Mr. Carhart was interviewed This illuminating new history shows that without France, there
“There is a related danger, however, at least for me. It’s tempting by Elaine Sciolino, followed by an audience Q&A session. might not be a United States of America. French assistance made
to continue “research” without end — there’s always more to the difference between looming defeat and eventual triumph in
learn, and more experts who are remarkably generous with their The other shortlisted books for the award: America’s fight for independence. Nearly ten percent of those who
time. But there comes a point when you have to stop the searching, fought and died were French. The survivors became legends from
and fashion the material you have into the form you want. Il faut “Mark Twain & France: The Making of a New American Identity” Lafayette and Rochambeau to Admiral de Grasse.
trancher!, as they say in France. This can be difficult, but it has From top to bottom: At the French Literary Award celebra- by Paula Harrington and Ronald Jenn
to happen if you want the ultimate satisfaction of moving from tion and dinner on May 17th, 2018: Author Thad Carhart Blending cultural history, biography, and literary criticism, this
endless notes to a real book.” and his wife Mary Simoneri, Christian Draz, Elizabeth book explores how one of America’s greatest icons used the French
Stribling and Francis de Marneffe; 2018 French Literary
Award winner Thad Carhart with Elaine Sciolino, who led to help build a new sense of what it is to be “American” in the
the Q&A session and served on the jury for the award second half of the 19th century.
—28 —29You can also read
