Raritan NJ
12-18-2024 10:06am

Somerset County Launches Innovative Docent Training Program for History Lovers

Learn how to make history come to life by joining Somerset County’s Docent Training Program, the first-ever collaborative training program for history docents in New Jersey. The program is available to New Jersey residents aged 18 or older.

“This pilot program will teach dedicated volunteers how to share the rich history of Somerset County with visitors at our spectacular historic sites,” said Somerset County Commissioner Melonie Marano, liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Commission. “With the 250th anniversary of the United States set for 2026, it’s even more important to remember that our history is still connected to who we are today. This program is an incredible opportunity for New Jersey residents to preserve our collective history for the next generation.”

Participants in the first round of the Somerset County Docent Training Program will be trained to volunteer at one of Somerset County's Five Generals Houses. During the Revolutionary War, these five houses were inhabited by George Washington and four of his top generals. The Abraham Staats House in South Bound Brook, the Jacobus Vanderveer House in Bedminster, the Philip Van Horne House in Bridgewater, the Van Veghten House in Bridgewater, and the Wallace House & Old Dutch Parsonage in Somerville are preserved, open to the public, and in need of volunteer docents.

What is a Docent?

Docents are trained volunteers that lead historic house tours, assist with public programming, and help to provide an immersive experience for visitors at historic sites and house museums. They play a crucial role in preserving local history through engaging and educating the public, participating in live demonstrations or reenactments, and more.

Join the Docent Training Program.

Becoming a docent is meaningful, rewarding, and completely free for New Jersey residents. No experience or prior knowledge is required.

“Over the years of offering tours during the ‘Journey Through the Past’ events, I've met many people who love history and preservation, and would love to find a way to get involved with the presentation of our county's history,” said Rory Britt, president of the Somerset County Cultural and Heritage Commission.

Continued Britt, “This program could be that opportunity for individuals to learn even more about our history, while helping us present that history to the public. By participating in this program, individuals will not only help us to open our sites more frequently to the public for both events and tours, but allow them to join in and become part of the larger history and preservation community at the local, county, and even state level.”

The in-person, six-month program includes interactive workshops, informative lectures, a guided tour of local historic sites, and hands-on training sessions where volunteers will learn the essential skills and foundational content knowledge of a history docent, learn from experienced docents, and connect with a community of history enthusiasts and learners. Space is limited and registration closes January 24, 2025.

To learn more about the phases of the program and locations for each session, visit Winter | Spring 2025. Below are the scheduled dates and times for the pilot program.

Class Sessions

  • Session 1 – Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025 | 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  • Session 2 – Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025 | 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  • Session 3 (Optional Field Trip) – Sunday, Feb. 23, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
  • Session 4 – Saturday, March 1, 2025 | 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  • Session 5 – Saturday, March 8, 2025 | 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  • Session 6 – Saturday, March 29, 2025 | 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Events

  • Community Building Event – Saturday, April 5, 2025 | 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • Learning and Service – April 7 to June 29, 2025 – Participate in six, hands-on training sessions at a Somerset County historic site. These sessions are flexible and dependent on your availability. Your schedule and responsibilities will be set with your site-based trainer.

Before Learning and Service, all volunteers will be required to complete a background check as part of Somerset County’s safety protocol. This quick and simple process helps to ensure a secure environment for everyone. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the background check process, contact Laurie Roome at (908) 704-6338.

For more information on the Somerset County Docent Training Program, contact the Cultural and Heritage Commission Office at CulturalHeritage@co.somerset.nj.us or (908) 231-7022.

The Somerset County Docent Training Program is made possible by the Somerset County Cultural and Heritage Commission, a partner of the New Jersey Historical Commission.

To learn more about Somerset County, register for free email alerts at co.somerset.nj.gov/subscribe or follow us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube.

About Somerset County

The County of Somerset is committed to excellence and innovation in public service, promoting the well-being of all residents and communities by providing effective, efficient, and responsive leadership.

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