Visitor Services and Interpretation Volunteer

Do you get a lump in your throat when you hear the strains of our national anthem? Would you like to explain how that incredible song came to be written? Help share and reveal our national past to over 700,000 annual visitors from all over the country and the world!
Volunteering in interpretation provides the opportunity to share your love of history and introduce visitors and students from all walks of life to the stories of Fort McHenry. Help visitors to connect with the rich history of the home of the Star-Spangled Banner!

Energetic, passionate volunteers are needed to give interpretive programs and help staff our information desk in the visitor center. Other important duties include, serving as a contact for visitors in the fort, and providing pertinent information concerning the history of the battle in 1814 and the writing of The Star-Spangled Banner. Volunteers are also used to help patrol our beautiful grounds along the Patapsco River! Additional duties and roles are discussed during the interview process.

Working Conditions: Work is both indoor and outdoor in nature. Volunteers should be prepared for wide extremes in weather - in the summer it can get very hot and humid, averaging between 90 and 98 degrees, and in the winter it can be very cold and blustery, averaging between 38 degrees and freezing! Long hours of walking and standing are also required. Bending and light lifting may be required!

Requirements: A willingness to engage in public speaking is a must! Our volunteers are required to donate eight (8) hours of time a month, generally over the course of two days. Volunteers are needed for weekdays and weekends.