Do you have an interest in history and a knack for telling a good story? The Fairfield Museum is looking for a few good volunteers to become docents, conducting tours for school groups as well as visitors to the Fairfield Museum and the 1750 Ogden House on Bronson Road. Docents learn about Connecticut and regional history and how to educate the public about our unique exhibits and historic sites. Training is provided.
"In my opinion, being a docent is the most rewarding volunteer position at the Museum," says Program and Volunteer Coordinator Walt Matis. "Not only are you able to learn history, but you get to work directly with the public and the school children, sharing those stories."
Future docents will learn how to present guided tours including walking tours of Fairfield's Historic Town Green, house tours of the 1750 Ogden House and exhibition tours. Training will include educational tour materials, as well as readings and discussions on the European colonists, Native Americans, the American Revolution and changes that occurred from the 19th and into the 20th century, according to Christine Jewell, director of education and community programs.
"This fall, we will launch Creating Community: Exploring 375 Years of Our Past, an ambitious exhibit covering four centuries of local history," Jewell adds. "Docents will be an important part of the exiting new educational programs we are planning to go along with that project."
To apply, please call Christine Jewell, Director of Education at 203-259-1598 or email a brief letter of inquiry to education@fairfieldhs.org.
About Fairfield Museum and History Center:
Fairfield Museum and History Center is a community cultural arts and education center established in 2007 by the 103-year-old Fairfield Historical Society. The 13,000 square-foot museum, inspired architecturally by the historic warehouses along Southport harbor, includes modern galleries, a research library, a museum shop and community spaces overlooking Fairfield's Town Green. The Fairfield Museum and History Center believes in the power of history to inspire the imagination, stimulate thought and transform society.
Located at 370 Beach Road in Fairfield, CT, the Museum is open seven days a week. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for students and seniors. Members of the Museum and children are free. For more information, call 203-259-1598 or view us online at www.fairfieldhistory.org.