Do you have a passion for American history, historic sites or the decorative arts? Would you like to share your passion with others? The American Revolution Institute of the Society of the Cincinnati has an immediate need for volunteer museum docents. Docents create a memorable and enlightening experience for visitors of all ages by leading guided tours of the Institute’s headquarters, Anderson House. The mansion, a National Historic Landmark, was completed in 1905 in the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, D.C. Today, tours of Anderson House reveal the significance of the American Revolution, the history of the Society of the Cincinnati, and the lives and collections of the home’s first owners, Larz and Isabel Anderson.
Docents serve at least two weekday shifts or one weekend shift per month. Available shifts are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 1 to 4 p.m., as well as Sunday, 12 to 4 p.m. Training is provided, as well as continuing education and fellowship gatherings. Training consists of three two-hour evening classes, to be followed by tour shadowing.
Duties
- Welcome and orient visitors to Anderson House;
- Provide guided tours of the first and second floors; and
- Assist with visitor services.
Qualifications
- 18+ years old;
- Able to climb stairs and be on your feet for up to an hour at a time;
- Enjoy working with people;
- Excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills;
- Interest in the American Revolution, the history of Washington, D.C., and/or historic sites; and
- English fluency is required, and we welcome candidates with additional language skills.
How to Apply
For more information and to apply to be a museum docent, please contact Paul Newman, museum collections and operations manager, at pnewman@societyofthecincinnati.org or 202.785.2040 x429.