Norwood Park Historical Society

Norwood Park Historical Society Museum Docents

The Norwood Park Historical Society is in need of docents.

Application Deadline: Open; we are accepting all applications at this time.

Objective: To lead engaging, informative, interesting gallery talks for visitors, including student groups, families, and individual visitors, of the Noble-Seymour-Crippen House at 5624 N. Newark Ave., Chicago’s oldest home.

Responsibilities: Volunteer trainees will become familiar with the history of the Noble-Seymour-Crippen House and how it relates to the history of Chicago. They will also be called on to interpret the upstairs gallery rooms, which feature different areas of Norwood Park history. The volunteers will also be able to greet visitors and help with various administrative duties associated with the day-to-day operation of this small museum.

Training Course: Training sessions will consist of “shadowing” an existing docent on a Saturday afternoon, so that the trainee eventually learns how to lead the museum tour and encourage gallery discussions. The Trainee will also be provided with various forms of written material about the house and the neighborhood, including a suggested docent script.

Qualifications: Docent and/or teaching experience preferred, but not essential; public speaking skills; friendliness; interest in working with people of varying ages—including children; and a keen interest in history and museum work. Volunteers must be available at least one Saturday a month, when the museum is open from noon until 4 p.m.

Long-term Time Commitment: Docents typically volunteer at least one Saturday a month for 4 hours, from noon to 4 p.m.; in light of the training involved, we request a six-month commitment at least.

How to Apply: A completed application requires:

A completed application form
A resume
Two references that can be contacted to discuss your ability to perform the duties of this volunteer opportunity.

E-mail Gwen Ihnat at gihnat@att.net to receive your application or for more information.

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