Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers form the nucleus of FMHA and we offer a variety of opportunities to fit with personal interests and skills. We are also cognizant that some volunteers will choose to be more active than others and thus do not require a minimum number of hours or even a physical presence. For example, if you would prefer to do research and write articles and blogs versus welding metal or painting a barracks, please consider volunteering.
The most prevalent volunteer opportunities at the Fort Miles Museum are:
Tour Docents: From May to September, FMHA docents conduct regular tours each Sunday. Docents are expected to learn the basics of a script regarding the history of and operations conducted at Fort Miles, with leeway for personal commentary. During the busy summer months, FMHA docents may also volunteer to conduct tours alongside trained historic interpreters from Delaware State Parks.
Bunker Busters: This group works on a wide variety of restoration projects both at a well-equipped workshop located inside Battery Smith at Fort Miles and at other sites within the Fort Miles Museum and Historical Area.
Bunker Busters convene every Thursday and volunteers choose project work that is suited to their individual skill set such as wood working, metal working, painting, cleaning and just getting whatever jobs that need doing done! Bunker Busters also assist with organizing and staffing special events at Fort Miles such as “Delaware Defense Day” held each April and a “Salute to VJ Day” held each September 2nd.
Gift Shop and Art Room Staffing: FMHA operates a Gift Shop at the Museum, which is supplemented by a kiosk operation in the summer. Gift shop hours vary but are generally 10 AM – 2 PM or until 4 PM during the summer. If you enjoy meeting visitors and tourists, you will enjoy volunteering at the Gift Shop.
The Museum also houses an art and artifacts collection, which requires in person staffing when open. Local artists such as Paul Rendel and Abraxas actively participate with us to continuously review and present the collection. FMHA also conducts silent art auctions and an annual “Delaware Defense Day” sketching and plein air painting contest. Volunteers who are themselves artists or interested in art assist with the organization and staffing of these events.
Research and Writing: FMHA maintains an active website and Facebook Page. Volunteers interested in history and writing as well as creating ideas for content are always needed.
How do I become a volunteer?
You may choose to complete the form below and have us contact you or telephone us at 302-867-6265. You can also contact us by email at info@fortmilesha.org. If you have an interest in World War II and/or post World War II history and education, we can use your help.