Existing comment:
Minister to France:
1816 -- President Madison recognized Gallatin's diplomatic ability and appoints him as Minister to France. Gallatin moves his family to Paris, where he remains in service from 1816-1823. He is an excellent diplomat, possessing tact, patience, and intelligence. His European assignment pleases his family immensely. Hannah writes to her friend Dolley Madison that she was: " ... very much pleased with everything I see in this wonderful place." Hannah takes the lead in establishing an American church in Paris and, given her education and proper upbringing, easily finds a place in society. The Marquis de Lafayette, hero of the American Revolutionary War, became a family friend and introduces Gallatin's daughter Frances into proper Parisian social circles. The family truly enjoys their stay in France. |