Get Involved at Historic Annapolis!

Historic Annapolis (HA), the leading nonprofit preservation and history organization in
Annapolis, was founded in 1952 by volunteers. HA’s volunteers continue to be an
important part of the success of our public programs, special events, and daily
operations. Join our team and be a part of our mission! Volunteers are needed
throughout the year to serve as museum docents, garden volunteers, and more.

Have Questions?

For more information or questions about volunteer programs, or to share your interest by phone or email, please contact Katie Turer at  katie.turer@annapolis.org or 443.221.6980.

If you are interested in volunteering, please fill out our Volunteer Information Form:

Volunteer Opportunities

Paca House Docents

The William Paca House and Garden tells the story of William Paca, a leader in the American Revolution and signer of the Declaration of Independence, his family, and enslaved people who labored at the house. Paca House Docents engage visitors through guided tours of the house. They share the history of the property, the people who lived here, and life in early Annapolis.

Individuals with an interest in history, decorative arts, or historic preservation – who also enjoy public speaking and storytelling – should consider becoming a Paca House Docent. Docents are needed both on weekdays and weekends for public and group tours at the William Paca House.

Training sessions to become a Paca House Docent are offered twice a year, in March and August.

HOGSHEAD VOLUNTEERS

Interpreter dressed in 18th-century attire demonstrates colonial baking inside Hogshead Museum in Annapolis.Hogshead Trades Museum is a hands-on, living history museum with costumed interpreters sharing the stories of local craftsmen and women of the colonial era. At Hogshead, volunteers present both home and shop life, engaging with visitors throughout the house. Volunteers also have the opportunity to learn and present a variety of trades such as tavern keeper, carpenter, shopkeeper, tailor, or laundress.

We are currently seeking volunteers with skills in historical interpretation, public speaking, and visitor engagement to help bring African American history to life by highlighting the experiences and contributions of both free and enslaved people in 18th and 19th-century Annapolis. We also welcome musicians who can enrich the museum experience with period-appropriate music and interpretation.

Individuals of all backgrounds are welcome to apply. No specific demographic or personal identity is required.

Paca Garden Volunteers

Garden volunteers help maintain the beautiful two-acre garden at the William Paca House throughout the year and assist with the William Paca Garden Annual Plant Sale each May. Volunteers help year-round with selecting, growing, and selling the plants for this annual HA fundraiser. Garden Volunteers are also welcome to train as a Garden Docent and provide tours of the historic Paca Garden.

Education Program Volunteers

Volunteers who enjoy working with children and teaching history through engaging activities will love our children’s programs!

During Mr. Paca’s Garden Storytime and Footprints School Program, volunteers assist with children of all ages and help bring history to life through crafts, stories, and formal programming.

Junior Docents

High school students (grades 9-12) may train as Junior Docents at the William Paca House or Hogshead Trades Museum. Junior Docents develop public speaking skills and knowledge of colonial history and culture as they give tours and assist with public programs. Please fill out our Junior Docent Volunteer Information Form here.

Special Skills

Help Historic Annapolis by sharing your special skills. If you have talents in photography, graphic design, video editing, interior design, speak other languages, or
bring expertise from other professional fields, we’d love for you to join us! Your participation in HA can make a meaningful impact.

Volunteer Benefits

  • Free or reduced admission fees for many programs 
  • Enrichment opportunities
  • Annual Volunteer Appreciation Celebration
  • Monthly volunteer newsletter