What to Expect in Each Issue

Those fortunate enough to encounter Mount Gretna generally agree there is none like it. 

This forest has spawned a broad array of human activity. In the last 140 years alone, these wooded hills have birthed the Pennsylvania State Farm show, a soldiers’ encampment, a religious tent revival, a Chautauqua community, one of the country’s oldest outdoor summer theaters, (multiple!) amusement parks and inns, and so much more. Across the centuries to current day, there is much to explore.

Here at Mount Gretna Magazine, we are creating space to do just that. The heart of this magazine will be our feature stories … at least five each per quarterly issue.

We will get to know the people and places of Mount Gretna and share them with you at the leisurely pace of a porch-side chat.

We’ll check in at all seasons, from the vibrancy of summer to the gentle musings of winter to everything in between.

And, while we will certainly include some headliners who move through our community, we will also talk to those whose stories may have never been told before.

With your help, we are committed to uncovering interesting tales from Gretna’s northern neighborhoods (Timber Hills, Conewago Hill, and Timber Bridge), across the lake in the Pennsylvania Chautauqua, and onto Campmeeting, Stoberdale, and Mount Gretna Heights on the eastern side. We will also seek out stories in other nearby sites intertwined with Gretna’s rich history.

Some articles will highlight resident and visiting artists, authors, and performers, covering their stories from unique angles.

You can also expect a selection of other delectable treats such as:

Gorgeous seasonal photography.

Behind-the-scenes cottage tours and owner perspectives.

Historical insights and anecdotes.

Details about Gretna flora and fauna, including how to live thoughtfully alongside them.

Invitations to slow down and notice the nudges and signs that surround us, offering chances to grow and to deepen.

The back story on various unusual aspects of Gretna as well as shared moments of human kindness, generosity, courage, resilience, and humor. (In fact, we expect some of these latter stories may become the most beloved ones of all.)

At times, we may examine challenges facing the community in a balanced way.

There will also be shorter interactive pieces for readers, such as Gretna trivia or a community question with collective answers shared in the next issue.

What else do you want to read about? Suggestions are welcome!