By Craig Gemmell

Over the past three months, I have been finding my footing at Hildene—listening closely, observing carefully, and beginning to sense the long arc of this remarkable place: what Hildene has been, what it is today, and what it may yet become in the years ahead. A vital part of that journey has been meeting with some of the original Friends of Hildene—the intrepid and visionary group who, after the passing of Peggy Beckwith, ensured that this place would not fade into memory but instead begin a new chapter of life.

In their company, I have learned so much—about the past fifty years, about all that has changed here, and all that, quietly and steadfastly, has endured. I have been delighted by the hair-raising stories from Hildene’s earliest days as a nonprofit, when dedication often outpaced resources and imagination carried the day. I have been humbled to sit with people who have given not just years but decades—more than half a century—of their lives to this place. And I have been deeply moved to realize that Hildene endures because of the abiding goodwill of those who have given their time, energy, and care. Because of this group, Hildene found a new beginning in 1975. Because of them, I have the privilege of writing to you today.

Perhaps most moving of all have been the stories of how Hildene has shaped the very people who chose, nearly fifty years ago, to give their time to it. Again and again, I have heard how lives were quietly altered through acts of service. These stories remind me that something extraordinary happens when we give ourselves to a purpose larger than our own lives. In serving, we are changed. In giving, we receive.

As spring begins to unfold across the Green Mountains, I hope you will visit—and seek me out when you do. I also hope you will consider volunteering. This year, we will host a wide array of programs across the property, and as the old saying goes, many hands make light work. By volunteering, you become part of a virtuous cycle that began long ago—helping to ensure that Hildene continues to thrive for generations yet to come. And who knows? You may find that Hildene gives something back as well. There is, of course, only one way to find out.

If you are curious to learn more, please reach out to our wonderful Volunteer Coordinator, Christine Furman, to take the next step.

I look forward to seeing you at Hildene.