Historic Lewes names 2024 volunteers of the year

Historic Lewes recently announced Terry Mansberger and Rachel Lynch have been named its volunteers of the year for 2024.

From leading tours and delighting audiences in Tavern Talks productions, to delivering public presentations and keeping the Sussex Tavern bustling, few volunteers have contributed as much talent, time and dedication to the organization. While their personalities and styles differ, Lynch and Mansberger come together as a dynamic team, driven by their shared creativity, passion and commitment to celebrating the rich history of Lewes.

A librarian and eighth-generation Delawarean, Lynch has been volunteering with Historic Lewes since 2017. She leads the Legends and Paranormal tours, serves as a docent at the Cannonball House, and brings wit and humor to the society’s Tavern Talks productions, contributing greatly to their jovial atmosphere.

“This is my history, my family,” said Lynch. “Old houses are my happy place.”

Mansberger joined the society in 2022 after a 32-year career in telecommunications, bringing a wealth of energy and insight to his roles as a docent, tour guide, lecturer and performer. His dynamic tours and engaging lectures have become highlights of the society’s programming, particularly during the Myths and Legends and Revolution-era Lewes walking tours. These experiences inspired his recent Night at the Museum talk, which delved into the lives of Lewes loyalists during the Revolutionary era.

“I love going beyond the ‘what’ of history and exploring the ‘why,’” Mansberger said. “Plus, every audience is different, and that keeps it fun.”