Join Keeler Tavern Museum’s dynamic volunteer community as a docent to share the history and stories of the Keeler Tavern and the people who lived and visited here! “The Museum tells great stories,” says Jennifer Hansen, one of KTM’s docents who guides with her daughter, Sara, as an NCL mother-daughter team. One story of particular interest to visitors is the British cannonball in the corner post, a souvenir from the 1777 Battle of Ridgefield, which also featured then-patriot Benedict Arnold.
“KTM provides great training and a lot of support and guidance so new docents are never overwhelmed,” Jennifer says. Sara, one of KTM’s youngest docents, has been guiding with her mother for almost a year, “I think I’m ready to lead my own tours.” Her younger sister, Alex, is getting ready to begin guiding with their mother. “It is a great mother-daughter activity,” says Jennifer.
Docents dress in period clothing as they guide visitors through the former tavern, hotel, and summer estate. “I love meeting new people from all around the world,” says Sara. In 2015, KTM welcomed visitors from 38 states and 13 countries.
The first of three training sessions will be held Tuesday, September 20. Volunteer docents are asked to volunteer at least once a month on Wednesday, Saturday, or Sunday afternoons. Call 203-438-5485 or email info@keelertavernmuseum.org to sign up for training. If you are interested but cannot come on Sept. 20, please contact us to make other arrangements.