Collaborative Training
(5 Sessions + 1 Optional Field Trip)
You will learn the essential skills and foundational content knowledge needed to become a history docent in Somerset County! Join a cohort of learners and history lovers as you attend workshops and lectures, participate in hands-on activities, and go on field trips!
Session #1 - Saturday, February 1, 2025 | 9:30AM-12:00PM
Somerset County Human Services Building
Welcome to the Somerset County Docent Training Program! The program kicks off with a brief orientation where you will learn more about the Program’s schedule and activities, meet your cohort of volunteer docents, and receive participant toolkits and resources. Learn about the key roles and responsibilities of a docent serving at a historical house museum and explore the significance of the upcoming Semiquincentennial – the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the nation and of the Revolutionary War.
Session #2 - Saturday, February 15, 2025 | 9:30AM-12:00PM
Somerset County Human Services Building
In this session, you will explore the living history and storytelling practices docents use to interpret history and engage with visitors at historical house museums. You will also learn about how New Jersey’s environment shaped two key revolutionary events that took place right here in Somerset County: the Middlebrook Encampment of 1777 and the Middlebrook Cantonment of 1778-1779.
Session #3 - Sunday, February 23, 2025 | 10:00AM-12:30PM
Meet at the Van Horne House (Optional Field Trip)
Participate in the Five Generals Bus Tour, hosted by the Heritage Trail Association! This tour showcases five of Somerset County’s historical houses listed on the state and national register of historic places, commemorating where George Washington and his generals stayed during the winter of 1778-1779. In this one-of-a-kind interactive experience, you will see history docents in action at the sites where you may be placed to volunteer.
Session #4 - Saturday, March 1, 2025 | 9:30AM-12:00PM
Somerset County Human Services Building
Historical house museums have the potential not only to preserve history, but to be an inclusive space that engages the community and deepens their understanding about the past. In this session, you will explore the mindset and practices that docents can use to effectively engage diverse audiences. You will also rehearse different strategies for inquiry and learning that will inspire visitors to think critically about the stories they hear and the artifacts on display at historic house museums.
Session #5 - Saturday, March 8, 2025 | 9:30AM-12:00PM
Various Historic Sites in Somerset County
Take a deep dive into the lives of the people who lived and worked at these historic house museums! Learn about the families who built the houses and made changes over time, the lives of people who were enslaved on the property, and what life was like during 18th century colonial times. You will also observe how docents apply the skills and strategies of historical interpretation to make your experience meaningful.
Session #6 - Saturday, March 29, 2025 | 9:30AM-12:00PM
Somerset County Human Services Building
How can docents make historical house museums more accessible for visitors with various learning needs? In this session, you will learn to think about potential access barriers and practice strategies to navigate these challenges to create welcoming, inclusive experiences for all visitors. This session also features a docent panel where you will have the opportunity to ask experienced docents questions and understand the typical roles and responsibilities of a volunteer.
*The Somerset County Human Services Building is located at 27 Warren Street, Somerville, NJ, 08876
