French Heritage Society

French Heritage Society

Preserving our historic treasures to inspire future generations

Summer Student Exchange Program

Jardin des Plantes

Feb 14, 2025
Gain hands-on experience in gardening and landscaping practices at one of Paris’ most iconic public gardens.

Jardin des Plantes

Internship Description
This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in gardening and landscaping practices within one of Paris’ most iconic public gardens. Interns will work closely with the horticulture team, participating in essential gardening tasks and contributing to the overall maintenance and beautification of the garden.

Throughout this internship, the successful candidate will develop a comprehensive understanding of horticultural techniques, such as weeding, pruning, soil preparation, plant grooming, and general garden care. This immersive experience will also provide insights into the operations and management of a historic public garden that blends scientific research with public enjoyment.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist with key horticultural tasks, including weeding, pruning, soil preparation, and plant grooming.
  • Contribute to the overall maintenance and care of various garden sections, ensuring a high standard of presentation and health for the plants.
  • Gain experience in the management of diverse plant species and garden areas, including thematic plantings and specialized spaces.
  • Work alongside the horticulture team to understand sustainable gardening practices and conservation efforts.
  • Support the daily operations of the garden and assist in special projects designed to enhance the visitor experience.

This internship provides valuable experience in the preservation and maintenance of a historic public garden, offering a chance to apply horticultural knowledge in a real-world, scientifically-driven environment.

About the Jardin des Plantes
The Jardin des Plantes, established in 1626, is a cornerstone of Parisian heritage and remains one of the most prestigious botanical gardens in France. Located in the heart of Paris, this vibrant space is part of the National Museum of Natural History and serves as both a public garden and a hub for scientific discovery. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including a historic menagerie, diverse greenhouses, and specialized exhibition halls such as the Mineralogy and Paleontology Galleries. The garden is a living laboratory, offering a unique opportunity to study and experience plant life in a historically rich setting.

Application Procedure
Complete the online application and submit the following:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Case study :
    Write and submit a case study (500 words): Discuss the impact of botanical gardens on urban communities

National WWII Museum

Feb 14, 2025
Learn how to curate and preserve military history at a renowned museum in a vibrant city.

National WWII Museum


Internship Description
This internship provides a unique opportunity for art history or history students to gain an in-depth understanding of the daily tasks involved in the curation and preservation of military history at a renowned museum. Interns will work closely with curatorial staff to contribute to various aspects of the museum’s mission, with a focus on maintaining and enhancing the collection.

A key component of the internship will be assisting with an inventory project focused on the museum’s weapons and artifact collection. The intern will update the museum’s database, assess the state of preservation, and contribute to the care and documentation of these critical historical objects.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist in an inventory project, updating the museum’s database for the weapons and artifact collection.
  • Evaluate the state of preservation of items in the collection and contribute to conservation efforts.
  • Work with curatorial staff on tasks related to exhibition planning, collection care, and archival work.
  • Gain hands-on experience with museum best practices for artifact preservation, documentation, and cataloging.
  • Participate in general curatorial tasks related to the museum’s exhibits and collections.

This internship offers a comprehensive, hands-on experience in the field of museum curation, focusing on the preservation and organization of World War II artifacts. Interns will develop valuable skills in collection management, conservation, and research while contributing to the museum’s mission to honor and preserve the history of World War II.

About the National WWII Museum
The National WWII Museum, located in New Orleans, is a premier institution dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the United States’ contributions to the Allied victory in World War II. With a vast collection of artifacts, exhibits, and personal stories, the museum offers an immersive and educational experience that highlights the global impact of the war and the bravery of those involved. The museum is committed to advancing historical research and curatorial practices to ensure the legacy of World War II is passed down to future generations.

Application Procedure
Complete the online application and submit the following:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Case study :
    Write and submit a case study (500 words): Discuss the story of American experience in the WWII (why it was fought, how it was won and what it means today)

Lyndhurst Mansions

Feb 14, 2025
Acquire hands-on experience with gardening and landscaping techniques at a historic heritage site.

Lyndhurst Mansions

Internship Description
This internship provides students with a comprehensive, hands-on understanding of gardening and landscaping techniques at a historic heritage site. Interns will work closely with experienced horticulturists and landscape managers, gaining practical skills in various horticultural tasks, including weeding, soil preparation, grooming, restoration, and planting bed design.

Interns will contribute to the ongoing preservation and enhancement of Lyndhurst’s historic gardens, ensuring their continued beauty and historical integrity. This program encourages a deep appreciation for sustainable landscape management and the importance of historic garden restoration in cultural heritage sites.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist experienced horticulturists with gardening tasks, such as weeding, soil preparation, grooming, and designing planting beds.
  • Contribute to the restoration and maintenance of Lyndhurst’s historic gardens, preserving their historical integrity.
  • Develop horticultural skills through hands-on experience and active participation in landscaping projects.
  • Learn sustainable landscape management practices that support the preservation of heritage sites.
  • Assist with special projects to enhance the landscape of the estate, contributing to Lyndhurst’s overall mission of conservation.

This internship will provide interns with essential skills in horticulture, garden restoration, and sustainable landscape management, preparing them for careers in horticulture, heritage conservation, and historic preservation.

About Lyndhurst Mansion
Lyndhurst Mansion is a distinguished Gothic Revival country house set within a 67-acre park overlooking the Hudson River. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1966, Lyndhurst is renowned for its stunning architecture and meticulously maintained landscape. The estate features a blend of formal and naturalistic gardens, reflecting both its historic design and contemporary efforts in preservation. As part of its mission to maintain the integrity of its grounds and gardens, Lyndhurst offers an immersive environment where history, horticulture, and landscape management intersect.

Application Procedure
Complete the online application and submit the following:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Two letters of reference

Magnolia Plantations & Gardens

Feb 14, 2025
Study horticulture, conservation, and landscape design at one of the oldest public gardens in the United States.

Magnolia Plantations & Gardens

About Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
As one of the oldest public gardens in the United States, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a living testament to centuries of horticultural heritage. Founded in 1676, it blends historical preservation with modern conservation practices. The plantation is renowned for its stunning landscapes, which feature a variety of traditional Southern gardens, including romantic gardens, azalea displays, and wildlife sanctuaries. Magnolia is committed to preserving its gardens while embracing sustainable practices, creating an environment where history and innovation thrive side by side.

Internship Description
This internship offers a hands-on experience for students with a passion for horticulture, garden conservation, and landscape design. Interns will work alongside the expert garden staff at Magnolia, gaining practical skills in grafting, planting, trimming, weeding, and landscape design. The internship will also provide opportunities to engage with other historic Southern gardens, offering a broader view of horticultural practices across the region.

Interns will be encouraged to develop a creative project aimed at enhancing the landscape at Magnolia, with past contributions including designing pathways for the azalea garden.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist garden staff with tasks such as grafting, planting, trimming, weeding, and landscape design.
  • Gain practical experience in historic garden preservation and sustainable landscape management.
  • Collaborate on a creative project to enhance the beauty and functionality of Magnolia’s landscape.
  • Explore other historic Southern gardens, exchanging horticultural knowledge and techniques.
  • Contribute to the day-to-day operations of the garden, supporting staff in maintaining Magnolia’s landscape.

This internship fosters a cross-cultural exchange of horticultural knowledge, encouraging interns to apply their expertise in the conservation and preservation of historic gardens. Interns will also have the opportunity to experience the rich biodiversity of the Lowcountry while contributing to the ongoing care and development of Magnolia Plantation’s gardens.

Application Procedure
Complete the online application and submit the following:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Two letters of reference

Archives Nationales

Feb 14, 2025
Develop a comprehensive understanding of development at one of France’s most prestigious cultural institutions.

Archives Nationales

Internship Description
This internship offers a unique opportunity for a graduate-level student specializing in history, communications, or public relations to gain a comprehensive understanding of the sponsorship and public relations operations at one of France’s most prestigious cultural institutions. The selected intern will work closely with the Development Manager to assist in key patronage and donor engagement activities.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Collaborate with the Development Manager to strategize and implement patronage programs, focusing on donor acquisition and retention.
  • Assist in drafting and producing communication materials aimed at engaging new patrons and enhancing relationships with existing ones.
  • Contribute to the planning and execution of patron events, helping to facilitate meaningful engagement with potential and current supporters.
  • Take part in guiding tours for visitors, sharing the historical and cultural significance of the archives, and assisting with public relations efforts.

This internship provides valuable, hands-on experience in cultural sponsorship and public relations, while offering a deep dive into the operations of a world-renowned institution.

About the Archives Nationales
The Archives Nationales of France hold one of the most important archival collections in the world, chronicling history from the 7th century to the present day. The collection includes a diverse range of materials such as papyrus, parchment, and paper manuscripts, as well as maps, drawings, photographs, and various objects. These archives are housed in two remarkable locations:

  • The Soubise and Rohan Palaces, along with the Grand Dépôt, dating from the 18th and 19th centuries, situated in the historic Marais district of Paris.
  • The Grand Bâtiment de Pierrefitte-sur-Seine, located just outside Paris, is Europe’s largest archival center, dedicated to the preservation and accessibility of this invaluable heritage.

Application Procedure
Complete the online application and submit the following:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Case study :
    Write and submit a case study (500 words): Explore the evolving role of archives in the 21st century’s collective memory.

New Orleans Jazz Museum

Feb 7, 2025
Gain hands-on experience in museum operations while exploring the rich jazz heritage of New Orleans.

New Orleans Jazz Museum

About the New Orleans Jazz Museum:

The New Orleans Jazz Museum celebrates the history and culture of jazz through exhibitions, performances, and educational programs. Located in the historic Old U.S. Mint, the museum houses an extensive collection of jazz artifacts, interactive displays, and live music experiences that highlight the city’s deep-rooted musical heritage.

Internship Overview:

The New Orleans Jazz Museum is seeking motivated and passionate summer interns to support various museum initiatives, including cultural programming, archival research, international partnerships, and visitor services. This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in museum operations while exploring the rich jazz heritage of New Orleans.

Responsibilities:

  • Assist with programming and coordination of cultural events
  • Represent the museum’s goals through participation in exhibits and events
  • Research potential partnerships with other music museums and festivals
  • Interact with visitors, both English and French speakers
  • Assist with the development and organization of museum exhibitions and programs
  • Conduct research on jazz history, artifacts, and musicians to support museum content
  • Help catalog and preserve historical documents and artifacts in the museum’s collection
  • Assist with educational and outreach programs, including workshops and guided tours
  • Support event planning and execution, particularly for concerts and special events
  • Contribute to the museum’s digital initiatives, including social media and website content

Application Procedure
Complete the online application and submit the following:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Case study :
    Write and submit a case study (500 words): Discuss intersections between jazz music and plastic and / or visual between jazz music and plastic and / or visual arts

Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte

Feb 7, 2025
Collaborate on two key archival projects as part of a campaign to enhance Vaux-le-Vincomte's collection visibility.

Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte

Internship description

As part of a campaign to enhance the visibility of the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte’s archival collections, two key projects—an inventory and a digitization initiative—are to be undertaken.

The “Sommier” archive collection, which documents the history of the family and their establishment at the château, provides a remarkable account of family life on the estate and the evolution of its architecture and collections between 1875 and 1967. Comprising around twenty boxes of archives, this untapped resource requires a full inventory. This work will be closely linked to the planned publication of a book dedicated to the château’s collections and the family’s history.

The archival collection of the Association des Amis de Vaux-le-Vicomte is the focus of a digitization campaign aimed at increasing accessibility to these materials and showcasing their historical significance. The goal is to make these documents available online via the Association’s website. This collection, which includes fascinating archives from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries, is deeply tied to the history of the château but remains largely underutilized today.

The intern will work closely with the conservation officer on both projects. Their responsibilities will include:

  • Conducting a detailed inventory of all documents within the “Sommier” archive boxes, following the classification framework established by the conservation officer.
  • Identifying documents relevant to the publication on the château’s collections and history.
  • Communicating with the authors contributing to the book to provide them with documents that could enrich ongoing research.
  • Using specialized equipment to digitize selected archival materials from the Association des Amis de Vaux-le-Vicomte’s collection.
  • Exploring different methods for making these archives accessible and engaging on the Association’s website and presenting proposals for validation by the President of the Association and the conservation officer.
  • Managing the online publication of these materials and ensuring their accessibility for digital consultation.
  • Hosting a presentation for the Association des Amis de Vaux-le-Vicomte to share insights from the project and contribute to the broader effort of promoting both the archives and the digitization work.

About Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte

Designed between 1658 and 1661 for Louis XIV’s Superintendent of Finances, Nicolas Fouquet, the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is an architectural masterpiece born from the collaboration of three iconic 17th-century artists: architect Louis Le Vau, landscape designer André Le Nôtre, and painter Charles Le Brun. Open to the public since 1968, the château and its gardens house a remarkable collection of paintings, sculptures, engravings, and decorative arts.

For several years, the Vogüé family has been dedicated to the professional management and preservation of this collection and its reserves. Significant initiatives have already been undertaken, including a comprehensive inventory, the development of a preventive conservation strategy, and the monitoring of temperature and humidity variations in the exhibition rooms. However, much work remains to be done. The addition of an intern would provide valuable support in advancing the project to showcase and enhance the collections, including those belonging to the Association des Amis de Vaux-le-Vicomte.

Application Procedure
Complete the online application and submit the following:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Case study :
    Write and submit a case study (500 words): Explore the influence of the castle on French art and architecture of the 17th century.

New York Botanical Garden

Feb 7, 2025
Learn gardening and landscaping techniques at a public garden that is a National Historic Landmark.

New York Botanical Garden

Internship Description

The purpose of this internship is to give a good understanding of all gardening and landscaping techniques in a public botanical garden. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work alongside the Garden’s staff to assist with maintaining our landmarked 250 acres of gardens and grounds. Volunteers weed, mulch, groom plants, and perform other maintenance tasks as directed by supervising horticulturists. The intern will work on weekdays only.

About the New York Botanical Garden

The New York Botanical Garden is an advocate for the plant world. The Garden pursues its mission through its role as a museum of living plant collections arranged in gardens and landscapes across its National Historic Landmark site; through its comprehensive education programs in horticulture and plant science; and through the wide-ranging research programs of the International Plant Science Center.

Application Procedure
Complete the online application and submit the following:

  • Resume
  • Cover letter
  • Statement of Interest expressing your passion for horticulture and the specific aspects of NYBG that inspire you is encouraged
  • Two letters of references

Musée Carnavalet

Jan 29, 2025
Develop an in-depth understanding of the complexities and decision-making of curating a major city museum.

Musée Carnavalet

Internship Description
The purpose of this internship is to provide mature art history students who intends on pursuing a career in curation with an in-depth understanding of the complexities and decision-making process of the Carnavalet Museum.

The successful candidate will have an opportunity to participate in curatorial business meetings and work closely with the curator and her staff in a variety of tasks including parsing through archives and files, cataloguing and researching in the unique museum called “the Paris City Museum”. 

About the Musée Carnavalet
Conceived as a true journey into the past and present of Paris, the museum’s presentation exhibits the greatest historical treasures of the museum, from prehistory to the present. Paintings, sculptures, furniture, woodwork, objets d’art, historical objects, signs, photographs, drawings, engravings, posters, models, medals, coins and archaeological collections retrace the history of Paris in a unique way: it is at once historical, documentary, emotional and close to the heart of all Parisians. 

Application Procedure
Complete the online application and submit the following:

  • Case study
    Write and submit a case study (500 words): Discuss effective communication strategies to engage the younger generation with a historical exhibition.
  • Resume
  • Cover letter