A smiling older woman with curly gray hair and a dark patterned sweater stands next to a smiling older man with white hair, a mustache, and glasses, wearing a dark sweater. Behind them, a large abstract painting with blues and yellows hangs on a wall.

Honoring Years of Service: Heli Meltsner and Frank Kramer Retire from History Cambridge Board

May 2025

Last week, the board of History Cambridge gathered to acknowledge two long-serving volunteers, Heli Meltsner and Frank Kramer, who retired from our board of directors in 2024. Their dedication and contributions have significantly shaped our organization, and we are incredibly grateful for their many years of service.

Four adults, three women and one man, stand together smiling. The woman in the center foreground holds a bouquet of vibrant flowers, predominantly pink and red, with some blue and purple accents. She has short, curly gray hair and wears a dark, patterned sweater. To her left, a woman with dark hair and glasses wears a light gray poncho. To her right, another woman with dark hair and glasses wears a dark top. On the far right, a man with white hair, a mustache, and glasses wears a dark sweater. Behind them, a large abstract painting with blues, purples, and dark tones hangs on a wall.
Board President Amy Devin, Heli Meltsner, Executive Director Marieke Van Damme, and Frank Kramer

Heli Meltsner, who joined History Cambridge (then the Cambridge Historical Society) in 2010, has left an indelible mark on our mission. As Curator for many years, Heli meticulously oversaw our special collections, understanding that preserving history goes beyond artifacts—it’s about telling the vital stories that define who we are. She firmly believed that history should be woven into every aspect of our programming, ensuring that all community members could meaningfully connect with the past. Heli’s leadership also extended to her role as Chair of the Programs Committee, where she championed uniquely Cambridge programs and sought out knowledgeable speakers. Her ability to balance tradition with an evolving perspective helped History Cambridge grow into a more inclusive and forward-thinking organization. Even after stepping down as Curator in 2019, Heli’s influence and guidance continued to resonate, serving as a benchmark for how we approach our duties.

We also celebrated Frank Kramer, a steadfast contributor to both History Cambridge and the wider community. Frank, the owner emeritus of the beloved Harvard Book Store, brought a rare and invaluable combination of dedication, insight, and generosity to our board. His extensive experience at the helm of one of Cambridge’s most cherished independent businesses provided a deep understanding of our city and its residents. Frank was known for coming to every meeting prepared and curious, always ready with thoughtful questions that guided our decisions and deepened our mission. Perhaps most notably, Frank is a true connector, leveraging his vast network to open doors and make introductions that have helped History Cambridge grow in ways we couldn’t have achieved alone. His ongoing commitment to community service continues through his work with other local organizations, including Cambridge Local First. In recognition of his exceptional service, we are honored to name Frank our very first Director Emeritus.

We extend our deepest appreciation to Heli and Frank for their unwavering commitment, leadership, and passion. Their legacies will continue to inspire and inform our work at History Cambridge for years to come.

Tags

Tags: