George Washington's Fredericksburg Foundation

Volunteers WHO? The History Guild, an association of volunteers, age 18 and older, who are trained by George Washington's Fredericksburg Foundation staff and dedicated to the various aspects of preserving history and educating the public.

WHAT? These volunteers train to do historical research, become docents, help with education program development and delivery, and work on archival projects for the Foundation. Volunteer opportunities include:

EDUCATION PROGRAMS ~ Volunteers assist with children's programs and workshops. Children learn about colonial life and social customs through archaeology, colonial dancing, games, dress, gardening, and kitchen chores.
KENMORE TOUR DOCENT ~ Volunteers guide visitors through the 1775 house. They are trained to provide visitors with information about Kenmore's history, its architecture, its collection of fine and decorative arts, its former families, and its current restoration.
FERRY FARM DOCENT ~ Volunteers welcome visitors and interpret the life of the Washington family, the folklore and fables of the Farm, the Rappahannock River and plantation landscape, and the exciting archaeological discoveries at Ferry Farm.
SCHOOL TOUR GUIDE ~ Volunteers are trained to conduct age-appropriate tours for school groups through the use of hands-on activities while teaching about Kenmore's history, architecture, decorative arts and families.
RESEARCH ~ Volunteers assist with research projects, including: genealogy, fund raising, object cataloging, and archival research.

WHY? The History Guild works with the Foundation's staff to develop programs that enable students and visitors to understand how the Washington and Lewis families helped shape our nation. The History Guild volunteers also develop and deliver programs about the role of Kenmore and Ferry Farm during the Civil War, and about our natural environment.

HOW? After an orientation meeting, volunteers are given 3 hours of training in the Foundation's mission, its history, and in museum ethics. Additional training by the staff will take place in specific departments. Several educational opportunities are offered throughout the year including a field trip and book discussion. Volunteers are asked to serve a minimum of 20 hours per year.

You can be a part of history! Volunteers are crucial to the work of the Foundation: arechaeology at Ferry Farm; restoring Kenmore to its former glory; telling stories of famous and not-so-famous Americans to the world.

Volunteer today The telling of history needs you.

Jessica Carter
Coordinator, Volunteer Services
(540) 370-0732, ext.12
carter@gwffoundation.org