Growing Up with History: Celia Gittleman on Giving Back

For National Volunteer Recognition Day, we interviewed longtime volunteer Celia Gittleman, who has a special connection to Historic New England: Her father, Peter Gittleman, is one of the organization’s longest-serving employees. His commitment to sharing New England’s history clearly influenced Celia, who has been volunteering with Historic New England since middle school.

National Volunteer Recognition Day kicks off National Volunteer Week (April 20-26, 2025), and we are thankful for dedicated volunteers like Celia, whose hard work enhances our programs, events, and educational outreach. Volunteers are essential to the success of our mission, and we are deeply grateful for their continued support.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what drew you to volunteering for Historic New England?

I started volunteering at Historic New England with my dad, who has worked at Historic New England throughout my life. My first volunteering job was in middle school at the Kids Craft Corner at the Codman Fine Arts and Crafts Festival. Over the past years, I’ve volunteered at the Codman Fine Arts and Crafts Festival, the Eustis Market, the Roseland Fine Arts and Crafts Festival, the Lyman Movies at the Mansion, and various other events as I can be helpful!

Currently, I live in Medford, Massachusetts, and I work at Tufts University, in the Registrar’s Office. I am a Tufts alumna, from a family of Tufts alumni, and am very much a homebody, preferring to stay close to home and close to my family.

Do you have favorite events or properties at which to volunteer? What makes it special to you?

It’s hard to pick a favorite property! If I had to choose, I’d say the Lyman Estate is one of my favorite properties to volunteer at; I really enjoy the Lyman grounds, along with the house. In high school, I took senior portraits with friends at the Lyman Estate and completed a photography project there as well. Using a film camera, I set up an entire scene on the grounds to convey a story through my final shot. My dad took me there at sunrise to capture the perfect photo, and it’s a morning I remember each time I visit Lyman. If I had to pick a favorite event, it would be the Roseland Fine Arts and Crafts Festival. This festival is a two-day event in October and while the weather can be unpredictable, it always feels like the start of fall to me. There are over 150 exhibitors, and it is fun to see what everyone purchases as they begin their holiday shopping and find something special that they cannot stop themselves from buying.

What’s one of the most memorable experiences you’ve had as a volunteer? A surprising visitor, a historic revelation, or just a perfect day?

I volunteered while I was in middle school and high school, took a break while I was in college, and started volunteering again after I graduated. A few years after college, I remember sitting at the Admissions table for the Codman Festival and one of my managers from a job I’d had in high school showed up. I hadn’t seen her for a few years, and it was a really fun experience to catch up and see her in such a different context. Another memorable year of volunteering was in 2020 during Covid. The programs felt a little bit different, but Historic New England strived to ensure they felt as normal as possible while still adhering to safety guidelines. It was a rewarding opportunity during a challenging year to engage with community members and witness their enthusiasm at being out in public. With so many events canceled that year, I found it exciting to contribute to those that were still able to take place.

Have you discovered any unexpected skills or hidden talents through volunteering?

I am a great popcorn maker. I highly recommend that everyone come to the Lyman Movies at the Mansion in July to taste my popcorn!

Do you volunteer with other organizations, or has Historic New England successfully monopolized your free time?

I also volunteer at the Royall House and Slave Quarters, in Medford, Massachusetts. My dad has worked at Historic New England for almost forty years, and like him, I prefer to stick with organizations for the long haul. Currently, my volunteering time is committed to Historic New England and the Royall House and Slave Quarters.

In what ways do you think Historic New England’s work impacts the community? Why do you think it’s important to preserve and share these stories?

When I was a kid, my dad and I would take walks around our neighborhood and he would explain the different styles for each house, Italianate, Queen Anne, Colonial, Greek Revival, etc., and the features that make each style unique. I may not remember all of the features he taught me, but I do remember many of them. Historic New England teaches through each tour, program, or exhibit, and while visitors may not remember everything they are taught, if they remember some of it, they are helping to spread Historic New England’s mission: to share the past and to engage and inform future generations.

What would you tell someone thinking about volunteering with Historic New England?

Volunteering with Historic New England is a great experience because you can learn interesting stories and histories of New England, the properties are beautiful, and the staff are friendly and excited to talk about their work. There are lots of ways to engage with Historic New England, depending on your interests. Whether you want to volunteer for programs, sign up for a membership, or become a guide, I encourage you to reach out and get involved!

Get involved: https://q2g6445noy.rbm.spinupwp.site/get-involved/volunteer/