Museum Docents
(Volunteer Opportunity)
DESCRIPTION:
The McFaddin-Ward House, an AAM accredited historic house museum in Beaumont, Texas, is looking for volunteer docents. Built 1905-1906, the Beaux-Arts Colonial mansion was the home of Mamie McFaddin Ward, who left the house as a historic house museum in 1982. The museum, which opened in 1986, ranges over three city blocks and includes the main house, a carriage house, a visitor center, an administrative office, and a collections office building.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The primary responsibility of a docent at the McFaddin-Ward House is to interpret the museum and its collection for the visiting public. Through thorough training, docents are equipped to provide a variety of tour experiences for all audiences. Most often, docents offer an individualized guided tour for the general public. The museum also trains docents to give tours structured for specific audiences, such as school children.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Applicants must be at least 21 years of age, have an interest in history and decorative arts, and be able to devote time to training and volunteering. Ideal docents will have a strong desire to share knowledge with the public, a sincere willingness to learn and study, and a pleasant and positive attitude. The position requires a moderate level of mobility and stamina to be able to negotiate stairs and the distance to the museum and carriage house.
HOW TO APPLY:
Submit a letter of interest to Public Programming Director, Bel Morian, by mail, fax, or email.
McFaddin-Ward House
725 Third Street
Beaumont, Texas 77701
P: (409) 832-2134
F: (409) 832-3483
Email: bmorian@mcfaddin-ward.org
Junior Historians
(Volunteer Opportunity)
DESCRIPTION:
The Junior Public Historian Program is a multi-week certificate program providing an introduction to Public History and careers/volunteer opportunities associated with this important field of study and work. Participants will explore:
Preservation/Conservation
Archeology
Oral History
Interpretation
Collection Care & Archive Management
Local/Community History
Museum Studies
Participants will gain valuable experience in various fields pertaining to Public History by completing basic course work, developing a tour for the McFaddin-Ward House Museum, and the completion of an individual public history project of their choosing. Participants will enjoy off-site history adventures, behind-the-scenes tours, and workshops. Participants are awarded a certificate of completion and community service hours to reflect time spent volunteering at the McFaddin-Ward House Museum. Upon completion, participants are invited to apply to serve as volunteers or docents for the institution. This program is currently in development. Please check our website and social media for program updates.