On January 11, 2025, the French-American Cultural Foundation proudly attended the Washington Winter Show’s lecture, “America’s Worldwide Cultural Heritage: Preserving Our Diplomatic Treasures.”
This thought-provoking panel discussion brought together distinguished experts to explore the legacy and preservation of America’s culturally and architecturally significant diplomatic properties abroad.
Moderated by Andrea Cochrane Tracey, the discussion featured Tobin N. Tracey, Director of the Office of Cultural Heritage at the State Department; Marcia V. Mayo, Vice President of the Fund to Conserve U.S. Diplomatic Treasures Abroad; and retired U.S. Ambassador Glyn T. Davies.
Together, they unveiled the remarkable stories behind America’s overseas diplomatic properties and the museum-quality collections they house.
The lecture highlighted:
- The State Department’s stewardship of 286 architecturally or culturally significant properties, 40% of which include at least one historic structure.
- Properties of note, such as the U.S. Ambassadorial residence in Paris—an exquisite hôtel particulier—and America’s first acquisition over 200 years ago in Tangier.
- A vast art collection of 16,500 pieces, with the oldest dating back to 5000 B.C. and the largest concentrations found in Paris, Rome, and Buenos Aires.
- Collaborative efforts were launched by Secretary of State Madeleine Albright and First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton in 2000 with the creation of the Secretary of State’s Register of Culturally Significant Property.
Panelists emphasized the extensive coordination required across governmental agencies to preserve these properties and collections, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites or hold historic recognition from host nations. These properties serve as operational spaces and platforms for cultural diplomacy, embodying the spirit of collaboration and respect between nations.
A Mission to Preserve for Future Generations
The lecture also discussed the role of the Fund to Conserve U.S. Diplomatic Treasures Abroad. Marcia V. Mayo shared the organization’s critical role in raising awareness and securing resources to maintain these invaluable assets. From historic residences to the finest examples of American craftsmanship and global artistry, the Fund ensures that these treasures endure for future generations to appreciate and study.
The Washington Winter Show: A Celebration of Art and Philanthropy
The Washington Winter Show, now in its 67th year, continues to uphold its reputation as one of the nation’s premier antiques shows. Held annually at the Katzen Arts Center, the event welcomes collectors, connoisseurs, and enthusiasts to celebrate decorative arts, furniture, and fine objects while raising funds for local charities. The 2025 theme, “Preserving Heritage,” provided the perfect backdrop for this fascinating lecture on cultural diplomacy.
F-ACF was honored to bring a group of members and supporters to this inspiring event. As champions of cultural exchange and preservation, we value the opportunity to engage with stories that underscore the shared heritage between the United States and the world.
This year’s program particularly spoke to the F-ACF as the leadership of the WWS invited the French Ambassador to the US, Laurent Bili, to serve as its Diplomatic Chair. Given the French commitment to preservation and artisanship, this made for a perfect marriage.
From the oldest properties in Tangier to modern-day preservation efforts, the panel’s insights reaffirmed the importance of safeguarding these diplomatic treasures.
The lecture offered an unforgettable journey through history, art, and diplomacy, leaving attendees inspired by the dedication and vision required to maintain America’s cultural legacy abroad.
We look forward to continuing our work which celebrates and supports initiatives that connect and preserve our shared cultural heritage.