Volunteer Duties and Requirements

General Requirements
  • Capability and interest in authentically portraying military, civilian and American Indian life at Fort Roberdeau during the late 18th century through historical presentations, costume, appearance, and mannerisms.
  • Some prior experience in tour guiding or in oral communication before groups..
  • Strong interest in history and willingness to study extensive background materials, manuals and readings provided by the Fort Roberdeau Association prior to training sessions and placement.
  • Attendance at all orientation seminars and test for costumed positions.
  • Availability and willingness to volunteer at least four hours per week between May 1 and October 31 for costumed interpretive volunteers. Participation on some weekends and holidays is generally expected.
  • Costuming is usually provided by the site for adult sized volunteers but cannot be guaranteed. If costuming is not available, the site will provide materials and patterns or approved vendors. The site will purchase the costumes from the volunteer at such time as they cease being associated with the program.
General Volunteer Duties
  • Assisting in guiding tours, performing skits and demonstrations and explaining duty stations to interpret the history of Fort Roberdeau to the visiting public. Enthusiastically contacting and interacting with all site visitors.
  • Studying historical references to strengthen interpretive background.
  • Maintaining historical areas in the fort, site furnishings and personal costumes.
  • Assisting in the operation of the gift shop and reception areas.
Volunteer Program Operations
  • Historic Fort Roberdeau volunteers are scheduled in advance as needed. Schedules are tailored to individual and site program needs.Volunteers are limited to a maximum of eighteen (18) hours of volunteer time each week. Volunteers may be scheduled, at their preference, for a half day or a full day experience. Generally two volunteer shifts are scheduled each day: 9 am - 1:15 pm and 1:00 pm - 5:15 pm. Active volunteers receive a discount in Historic Fort Roberdeau gift shop and recognition at a special annual ceremony. Volunteer placements at the Fort Roberdeau Visitor Center require no special costuming.
  • Costumes are provided for adult volunteer placements at Historic Fort Roberdeau. Personal grooming appropriate to the historical period.

Contact us for volunteer opportunities.