This program is open to undergraduate students who have completed at least one year of college.
Applicants should be comfortable with public speaking and available during the entire ten week internship period. Candidates with a background or a keen interest in history are preferred.
This position requires the ability to:
- work outdoors in hot and humid weather
- do rigorous physical activity including demonstrating 18th-century farming methods, field work, and milling/distilling
- work in a dusty environment
- lift and carry 50 pounds
- work with 18th-century tools and implements
- conduct hands-on activities
- greet and talk with numerous guests of all ages
Training Program
All interns will complete a training program in interpretive methodology and historical content. Key topics include 18th-century economics and agricultural methods, distilling and milling, and slavery.
Upon completion of training, interns will work as full-time Historic Trades interpreters under the direction of the professional interpretive staff. Interns will be expected to work a five-day, 40-hour week that will include some weekends and evenings. Interns will be expected to wear period clothing, provided by Mount Vernon.
In addition, interns will participate in department-sponsored field trips to other historic sites and museums in the region.
Interns will be required to complete a short research project on George Washington, agriculture, 18th-century trades, or related topics. Historic Trades staff will work with colleges and universities to ensure that, if applicable, course credit requirements are met.
Salary
This is a paid internship, and interns receive reimbursement for travel expenses to and from Mount Vernon.
As employees of Mount Vernon, interns are required to adhere to Mount Vernon’s Employee Handbook policies. Proof of up-to-date tetanus vaccination will be required before the first day of work.
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