Living History Volunteer

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Please note: An RV pad MAY be available on a first-come, first-serve basis to volunteers working a minimum of 30 hours per week in this position.

Located along the beautiful Cumberland Mountains, Cumberland Gap National Historical Park stretches across three states: Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia. With over 85 miles of hiking trails, historical sites, overlooks, camping, and guided tours, Cumberland Gap provides opportunities for visitors of all ages and abilities.

In addition to its natural beauty, the park is also a place of great historical significance. Known as the "first great gateway to the west," the Cumberland Gap served as a mountain pass for migratory animals and humans for thousands of years. It was occupied as a strategic stronghold by both Union and Confederate forces during the Civil War. In order to better tell the story of the Cumberland Gap through the centuries, the park offers Living History programs to educate the public and enrich the visitor experience.

The park is currently seeking Living History volunteers who will help us 'bring the past to life' for our visitors. Previous experience in a historic trade or craft is welcome, but not required.

Main Duties

• Perform 18th and 19th-century historic trade(s) (i.e. fiber arts, blacksmithing, cooking) while wearing accurate reproduction period attire (training, clothing, and materials provided by the park).
• Give interpretive demonstrations, educate visitors about the historical significance of the park, and answer visitor questions.
• Positively interact and engage with members of the public.
• Occasionally provide assistance during special events.
• Other duties as needed.

Qualifications

• Preferred : knowledge of and/or experience in 18th and 19th-century fashion, fiber arts, blacksmithing methods, cooking methods, leatherworking, coopering, children's games, or other period-appropriate activities.
• Possess a good attitude, an eagerness to learn, and a dedication to safety.
• Work outdoors in various weather conditions while dressed in period attire.
• Work both alone and as a member of a team.
• Interact with both large and small groups of people of various ages and backgrounds.
• Behave in a professional, courteous, and safe manner while representing the National Park Service, especially when in the presence of park visitors.
• Arrive ON TIME at the proper location for volunteer duties, as agreed upon ahead of time by the volunteer coordinator(s) and/or supervisor(s).
• Respect the park’s equipment and to use it properly, as demonstrated during training/orientation.

Start Date - 2023-08-09

End Date - 2024-08-04

Activities include: Tour Guide/Interpretation;Visitor Information