FAIRFIELD, CT/AUGUST 31, 2015 – Lifelong learners take note: The Fairfield Museum and History Center is looking for people in the community who want to share their interest in history with students and adults by becoming a Museum Docent. A free training session will be held on Friday, September 25th from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Museum, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield, CT. Coffee and refreshments will be served. Seating is limited and pre-registration is required by calling 203-259-1598 or visiting http://docentorientation.eventbrite.com.
The Education Staff at the Museum will present an overview of docent opportunities as well as a “highlights of the Historic Town Green” walking tour. The program is intellectually stimulating and socially rewarded, and includes readings and discussions on various topics in American history and education.
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. The volunteer position offers adults the chance to learn about local history and also to work directly with the public.
Mike Brennan became a docent at the Fairfield Museum after a 35-year long career in publishing. “Especially gratifying to me,” he said of his role at the Museum, “is to experience the awakening awareness of the past in young children. It is a privilege to be a part of this process.”
Docent benefits include field trips, access to evening lecture series by noted historians and the opportunity to meet others interested in history and education.
Barbara Lucia, another Fairfield Museum docent, said she enjoys the educational opportunities afforded by the volunteer position. “In addition to being able to share my knowledge and interest in history with both children and adults, it is also an opportunity to further my own learning through the excellent workshops, lectures, and daytrips that are offered.”
“This fall, we will launch Handcrafted: Artisans Past & Present, an exhibit highlighting artisans who work in the region today and the area’s strong history of decorative arts,” according to Christine Jewell, director of education and community programs. “Docents will be an important part of the new educational programs we are planning to go along with the exhibit.”
Whether you’ve lived in the area for many years or are a new resident, you are invited to discover the rewards of sharing the rich history of the town of Fairfield and the region with students, families and adults.
About the Fairfield Museum and History Center
The Fairfield Museum and History Center is a regional cultural arts and education center established in 2007 by the 103-year old Fairfield Historical Society. Located at 370 Beach Road in Fairfield, CT, the Museum is open seven days a week, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults; $3 for students and seniors. Members of the Museum and children under 5 years of age are free. For more information, call 203-259-1598 or visit Fairfieldhistory.org