Many of us who own cottages in the Pennsylvania Chautauqua cherish its charm, history, and vibrant community life. But what makes this place so extraordinary isn't just the scenery or summer traditions—it’s the people who keep it running. From governance to gardens, performances to preservation, our Chautauqua relies on a unique structure—and a dedicated network of volunteers. Think you know Mount Gretna’s Chautauqua? Here are a few things that might just surprise you:
Did You Know…
The word "Chautauqua"refers to a cultural and educational movement that began in 1874 on the shores of Chautauqua Lake in western New York. It was originally founded as a summer teaching camp for Sunday school teachers but rapidly grew into a national phenomenon. At its peak, there were over 10,000 Chautauqua assemblies across the United States, bringing lectures, music, theater, and ideas to small towns. Today, only a handful remain in continuous operation—Mount Gretna being one of them. In fact, we are one of just 17 permanent Chautauqua communities left in the country. Our Chautauqua is a living legacy of that movement, committed to lifelong learning, artistic enrichment, and civic engagement.
Mount Gretna Chautauqua is not just a charming summer community—it’s also an official borough, one of the smallest in Pennsylvania. While the Pennsylvania Chautauqua owns much of the land and organizes cultural programs, the borough functions as a separate local government, providing essential municipal services like road maintenance and policing. The two entities work side by side to support the unique character and daily life of Mount Gretna.
The Pennsylvania Chautauqua is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization, meaning it is structured as a social welfare organization rather than a homeowners' association. Property owners are stockholders, and the Chautauqua is responsible for maintaining the land, buildings, and community programs.
The Chautauqua has funds allocated across multiple categories, including operating costs, designated projects, and long-term investments, all managed to support its sustainability.
The Pennsylvania Chautauqua Foundation, which owns and manages Soldiers Field, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization which was formed as the charitable arm of the Chautauqua. It operates under its own board and bylaws while supporting preservation and Chautauqua initiatives.
The annual Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show, begun in 1974 and now one of our community’s cultural highlights, is run almost entirely by volunteers and draws thousands of visitors each year. What started as a small fundraiser has grown into a nationally recognized, juried show featuring artists from across the country. Proceeds benefit the entire community, including the Mount Gretna Fire Department and Mount Gretna Borough.
The Mount Gretna Chautauqua’s Summer Programs are made possible by the Stewart Society. This donor-supported fund ensures that lectures, concerts, children’s activities, and other seasonal events continue to thrive—year after year. To support these programs, visit pachautauqua.info and click on “Summer Programs.”
Gretna Gardeners bring beauty and ecological care to our shared spaces by planting and maintaining flower beds, pollinator gardens, and native plant areas throughout the Chautauqua. Working closely with the Grounds & Trees Committee, they support biodiversity, enhance seasonal color, and create welcoming public landscapes for all to enjoy.
The Soldiers Field Volunteer Brigade is working to restore this cherished green space to its original glory—when it served as a training ground for troops—while promoting environmental stewardship. Projects include wildflower meadow restoration, invasive species removal, and planting native trees and shrubs. Public walks and educational programs are also being planned.
The Pennsylvania Chautauqua owns and maintains several key properties in Mount Gretna, including:
The Hall of Philosophy – Used for lectures, concerts, and community gatherings
The Jigger Shop land – Leased to the iconic ice cream shop
The Post Office, Borough Office, and Boardroom – Essential spaces for residents and local businesses
The Lodge – Home to several businesses, including the Porch & Pantry restaurant
The Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle building–Also known as the Circle Building; currently home to an antique store
The Playhouse – Currently leased and managed by the Mount Gretna Arts Council
Public parks and green spaces – Including Chautauqua Park and other common areas
The tennis club, playground, and basketball courts – Maintained for community recreation
Where Do Chautauqua Homeowners’ Assessments Go?
Many may not realize that Chautauqua homeowners’ semi-annual assessment payments help cover:
Upkeep of common grounds and historic buildings
Labor expenses—Chautauqua contracts with Mount Gretna Borough for staff support
Sewer and trash services, billed directly to the Chautauqua and distributed among residents
Tree maintenance, which cost $125,000 in 2024 alone
While Chautauqua has financial resources allocated across different funds, financial sustainability remains a long-term concern.
Why Volunteer – and How You Can Help
Behind every concert, garden, event, and welcoming gesture is a volunteer who made it possible. While many Mount Gretnans enjoy what the Chautauqua offers, few realize how much is carried year after year by a small group of dedicated individuals.
To keep our traditions thriving—and to grow new ones—we need more people to step in. Whether your strength is planning, planting, hosting, organizing, or simply showing up with a smile, there's a place for you here.
Volunteering isn’t just about helping; it’s about becoming part of the story. Your time, energy, and ideas can help shape the future of this community we all love. Whether you can spare a few hours or take on a bigger role, there are many ways to contribute—hands-on, behind the scenes, or at the planning level.
Community Volunteer Groups
Mount Gretna Chautauqua’s Summer Programs at the Hall of Philosophy – Greet attendees, assist with seating, collect donations, introduce speakers, and serve refreshments. 📩 Contact: Sue Hostetter – pachautauqua@gmail.com
Visitors Center Host – Welcome guests, share information about Mount Gretna, and assist with light retail sales. 📩 Contact: Sue Hostetter – pachautauqua@gmail.com
Gretna Gardeners – Join seasonal efforts to plant and maintain public flowerbeds, pollinator gardens, and native landscapes in partnership with the Grounds & Trees Committee. 📩 Contact: Frank Gentile – dogfaceboy5@comcast.net
Soldiers Field Volunteer Brigade – Assist in restoring this historic training ground through invasive species removal, tree and shrub planting, and supporting public walks and educational programming. 📩 Contact: John Weaver – johnfweaver@gmail.com
Ecclesiastical (Sunday Worship Service) – Serve as an usher during Sunday services. 📩 Contact: Martha Knouss – knouss@msn.com
Friends of the Art Show (FoAS) – A new group forming to support Art Show–related events outside of the main show weekend. Ideas include porch sales, progressive dinners, a holiday market, and more. Flexible, informal—no monthly meetings required. Help when you can! 📩 Contact: Jane Zellers – (717-507-4607) or Sandy Moritz – (717-269-3989)
Board Committees – Help Shape the Chautauqua’s Future
Join a committee if you're interested in contributing your ideas, skills, or expertise to the planning, policy, and sustainability of the Chautauqua.
Art Show Committee – Coordinates the annual Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show, handling vendor outreach, logistics, and volunteer coordination. 📩 Contact: Jane Zellers – jane@janezellers.com
Finance Committee – Oversees budgeting, investment decisions, and the responsible financial management of Chautauqua funds. 📩 Contact: John Weaver – johnfweaver@gmail.com
New Residents Committee – Welcomes new homeowners and helps them get connected with Chautauqua traditions and opportunities. 📩 Contact: Bob Harding – harding.bob@gmail.com
Grounds & Trees Committee – Oversees tree health, green space upkeep, and coordinates with gardening volunteers to beautify shared spaces. 📩 Contact: Bob Harding or Jane Zellers – harding.bob@gmail.com | jane@janezellers.com
Long Range Planning Committee – Develops and updates strategic plans to support Chautauqua’s mission, growth, and long-term viability. 📩 Contact: John Weaver – johnfweaver@gmail.com
Real Estate & Insurance Committee – Manages Chautauqua-owned properties, lease agreements, and insurance coverage to protect community assets. 📩 Contact: Greg Miller – judge92du@gmail.com
Communication, Culture & Community Committee – Improves stockholder communication, encourages community input, and promotes transparency and inclusion. 📩 Contact: Sue Hostetter – susan.schlosser.hostetter@gmail.com
Bylaws Review Committee – Evaluates and proposes updates to the bylaws, ensuring governance remains fair, clear, and responsive to the needs of stockholders. 📩 Contact: Gil Feinberg – gsfesq@verizon.net
Our traditions don’t just preserve themselves—they’re nurtured by people like you.
When you volunteer, you help keep Mount Gretna vibrant, welcoming, and uniquely itself. There’s a role for everyone. Let’s build the future together.
Thanks to Sylvia Cueto from the Chautauqua’s Communication, Culture & Community Committee for spearheading this post.
