"What is a docent, and why would you want to be one?"

The Friends of the Southport Historical Society are looking for volunteers to become docents at the Hendricks Hill Museum, which will open for the season on Tuesday, June 27 and run until Saturday, Sept. 2.

From our perspective, our docents are friendly and knowledgeable folks who care deeply about Southport, and are excited to share the wealth of fascinating information and displays with visitors to our Museum. Last year, 306 visitors from 21 states, New Zealand, Poland, and Germany came to learn about our unique island. Just as importantly, you’ll learn about Southport’s history, our people, and the terrific research resources available to anyone

Worried that you’re not an expert? Don’t be! We’ll train you on Wednesday, June 28, give you a detailed handbook of all our offerings, and introduce you to Ron Orchard. Ron is our full-time resident expert who will be there whenever the museum is open, and who is an enthusiastic guide to help our docents and visitors. Docents only work one or two 2-hour shifts per season, a small commitment for the enjoyment you’ll get out of volunteering. The Museum is open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. during the season.

Please come and join us. You don’t need to be a Southport resident, just someone who cares about the history of our island, and would enjoy sharing our museum with others. For further information, please call Nan Jackson at 633-2003.