Historic Educator - LTE

Introduction

Old World Wisconsin is a premier outdoor museum of 19th-century immigrant farm and rural life, located in Eagle, WI (southwest Waukesha County).

The museum features more than 65 historic buildings relocated from around the state and represents the material and cultural history of nearly a dozen ethnic groups on 10 farmsteads, an 1870s rural crossroads village, a Visitor Center complex and the Aldo Leopold Environmental History Trail.

In addition to speaking with interpreters dressed in period clothing during the operating season from May 1 to Oct. 31, visitors can watch farming demonstrations on the site's widespread farmsteads, stocked with many rare breeds of horses, oxen and hogs. The gardens and fields are planted with many heirloom varieties of grains, flowers, fruits, herbs and vegetables.

View more information about the Wisconsin Historical Society - Old World Wisconsin.

Job Duties

• Demonstrates and interprets the domestic, agricultural and craft activities (cooking, gardening, wood cutting, wood working, chores, leatherwork, food preservation, textile crafts, etc. wood, etc.) in a 19th century farm site or village for school tours, day camp groups, and the general public.
• Demonstrates and actively involves general visitors in hand-on activities.
• Conducts education programs primarily through May and June and October for both children and adults as assigned.
• Contributes to the interpretation of 19th century life by participating in the execution of site special events.
• Attends staff meetings and staff development workshops and trainings.
• Studies and understands historical resource materials and other information provided; conducts research to enhance site knowledge and programs as directed by Lead Interpreter or Curator of Interpretation.
• Assists with routine site maintenance and cleaning.

Qualifications

• Good communication and interpersonal skills required.
• Must be willing to learn historical information and techniques and possess enthusiasm for demonstrating it to general visitors and school groups.
• Ability to perform physical tasks needed to authentically re-create the activities of a 19th c. working farm or household required.
• Education/experience in living history interpretation a plus.
• Previous experience working with volunteers of all ages helpful.
• College degree or working towards one in agriculture, history, education, American studies or related field OR equivalent combination of education and/or experience and/or training a plus.

Special Notes

1. A criminal background check will be conducted prior to offer of employment to determine if the circumstances of any conviction may be related to the job.
2. The Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 requires employers to hire only individuals who are eligible to work in the United States. Upon reporting for work, an individual will be expected to present proper evidence establishing employability.
3. State residency required.

Time Commitment

Seasonal position April to October (schedule includes working Saturday or Sunday) 16-35 hours per week; part-time hours available in December (winter schedule depends on number of programs booked).

How To Apply

Contact:

Jennifer Van Haaften, Curator of Interpretation
W372 S9727 Hwy 67
PO Box 69
Eagle, WI 53119

The Wisconsin Historical Society is an equal opportunity employer.