If you are interested in sharing your love of history with others, contributing to our understanding of Long Island’s past, and joining an organization dedicated to the protection of cultural heritage, consider volunteering with us this season!
Educators offer guided tours that help visitors engage thoughtfully with the architecture, artifacts, and stories of our four historic sites:
Joseph Lloyd Manor (Lloyd Harbor): The Lloyd family’s 18th century manorial estate and a provisioning plantation for their commercial interests. Jupiter Hammon, the first published African-American poet, wrote his most important works while enslaved at this site.
Sherwood-Jayne Farm (East Setauket): The 18th century farmstead of William Jayne, a Loyalist during the American Revolution. In 1908, the property was purchased by Preservation Long Island’s founder, Howard Sherwood, who restored the house’s colonial appearance and furnished it with his collection of antiques.
Custom House (Sag Harbor): The private residence of the Dering family and one of the earliest surviving custom houses in the United States. Here, merchants, whalers, and government officials enacted the country’s new system of trade and taxation in the bustling port of Sag Harbor.
Old Methodist Church (Cold Spring Harbor): The 19th century church now serves as the headquarters and exhibition gallery for Preservation Long Island. This year’s exhibition will explore Long Island’s 19th-century weaving industry and display local textiles alongside the permanent collection of furniture, portraits, and ceramics.
No prior teaching experience is necessary. All Educators receive training in museum education practices, learn the histories of our properties, and work collaboratively to develop their tours before the historic houses open in June.
Perks of joining our team:
* Get behind-the-scenes access to Preservation Long Island’s exhibits and collections
* Attend Preservation Long Island’s programs, events, and workshops for free
* Work directly with artifacts, works of art, and historical documents in our collections
* Join a community of volunteers who share an interest in Long Island history and education
* Participate in training sessions in museum education and other continuing education opportunities
* Learn about the collection directly from the Curator
* Get discounts on books and merchandise sold by Preservation Long Island
* Visit other New York museums and historical sites offering reciprocal admissions
The properties will be open Friday-Sunday from June through October, and volunteer hours are flexible. We look forward to working with you!
