Volunteers
Volunteer at Historic St. Mary’s City!
Where your curiosity, creativity, and passion help bring Maryland’s first capital to life
At Historic St. Mary’s City, volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. Every artifact washed, every visitor welcomed, every event brought to life — it all happens because people like you choose to share their time and talents with us.
Whether you’re digging into archaeology, supporting community programs, tending historic landscapes, or helping guests step into the 1600s, your service helps preserve this remarkable place for future generations.
HSMC is a living history museum spread across more than 800 acres of farmland, waterways, and reconstructed historic sites. It takes a dedicated community to care for the land, run dozens of programs, and welcome more than 20,000 schoolchildren each year. When you volunteer, you join a team that’s passionate, curious, and committed to meaningful service.
Join us — and be part of the story.
Volunteer Opportunities
Below is a sampling of the many ways you can get involved. Whether you prefer hands‑on work, behind‑the‑scenes support, or public‑facing roles, there’s a place for you here.
Event Volunteers
Help bring our signature events to life — including MarylandFest, Indigenous Heritage Day, Vampire Manor, Lost City, Frost Fair, and more. Volunteers assist with set‑up, guest engagement, activity stations, wayfinding, and clean‑up. Ideal for those who enjoy fast‑paced, community‑centered work.
Brick Chapel Volunteers
Support interpretation and visitor engagement at the 1667 Brick Chapel. Volunteers help open and close the building, greet guests, answer questions, and share the story of one of Maryland’s most significant early religious sites.
St. John’s Site Volunteers
Assist with museum maintenance, opening and closing procedures, and visitor services at one of Maryland’s most fascinating archaeology sites. Volunteers help orient guests, answer questions, and support daily operations.
Ticket Kiosk Volunteers
Be the friendly face that welcomes visitors to HSMC. Volunteers assist with ticketing, wayfinding, and general visitor information at our on‑site ticket booth.
Archaeology Lab Volunteers (archaeology experience required)
Work alongside our archaeology team to wash, sort, catalog, and analyze artifacts recovered from ongoing excavations. Ideal for those with prior lab or field experience.
Maryland Dove Volunteers
Support the operations of our tall ship, the Maryland Dove. Volunteers may assist with line handling, maintenance, and visitor engagement depending on skills and experience.
Garden Club Volunteers
Help care for the museum’s extensive gardens. The group meets Friday mornings from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. across the site. Tasks may include planting, weeding, mulching, and seasonal projects.
Costume Design Volunteers (sewing experience required)
Assist our costuming department by sewing, repairing, and maintaining 17th‑century reproduction garments worn by interpreters.
Gift Shop Volunteers
Support retail operations by greeting customers, organizing merchandise, and assisting with sales. A great fit for volunteers who enjoy customer service and hospitality.
Social Media Volunteers
Help capture the magic of HSMC by photographing programs, drafting captions, or assisting with content creation. Perfect for creative volunteers with an eye for storytelling.
Craftsman Volunteers
Use your hands‑on skills to support carpentry, woodworking, repairs, and historic trades projects across the museum.
Marketing & Communications Volunteers
Assist with outreach, graphic design, writing, photography, or community engagement projects. Ideal for volunteers interested in museum communications or nonprofit marketing.
Administrative Volunteers
Support behind‑the‑scenes operations through data entry, filing, organization, and office assistance. These roles help keep the museum running smoothly.
Who Can Volunteer?
We welcome volunteers of many backgrounds and experience levels.
Recommended age: 18+
Some roles require specific skills or training, but many simply require enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to learn.
Ready to Get Involved?
👉 Apply to become a volunteer: www.volgistics.com/appform/1123124589
Once you submit your application, our Volunteer Coordinator will reach out to schedule an introduction, discuss your interests, and help you find the perfect role.
Historic St. Mary’s City offers a summer apprentice program for students in middle and high school. To apply, contact Aaron Meisinger by emailing aaron.meisinger@maryland.gov. Information about the program can be found here.
