Historic Interpreter - Volunteer Training
Thank you for your interest in supporting the historic farm. Nestled within Carriage Hill MetroPark, the Daniel Arnold Historic Farm is a captivating glimpse into the past that draws visitors year after year. Established in the 1830s, this remarkable homestead is lovingly maintained by Five Rivers MetroParks to recreate the vibrant life of the Arnold Family during the bustling 1880s, when the farm truly thrived.
Wander through a charming landscape filled with original buildings and carefully crafted reproductions that transport you back in time. Experience the rich tapestry of heritage with heirloom crops, traditional livestock breeds, and historic farming techniques that breathe life into the 1880s.
The farm offers more than just a glimpse of days gone by; it serves as an immersive interpretive experience. Guided by the story of the Arnold Family, visitors can discover what life was truly like for a farming family in the 19th century. Through captivating oral histories, heartfelt letters, and evocative diaries, alongside official records and research, a vivid picture emerges. Volunteers play a vital role in bringing this history to life, inviting everyone to step into a world of authenticity and connection. Join us and embark on a journey back in time at the Daniel Arnold Historic Farm!
**A few opportunities are available that do not require historic clothing for those interested in supporting the Historic Farm but not interested in wearing historic clothing. Reach out to volunteer.services@metroparks.org to inquire about these potential opportunities.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE? This opportunity is open to individual long-term volunteers ages 16 and up, who have completed their volunteer onboarding qualifications (Volunteer Handbook Signature, Completed Volunteer Profile) and an eligible background check for those 18 and up. New to MetroParks volunteering? Click here to learn more about how to become a volunteer!
GET STARTED!
Step 1: Watch the 10-minute Carriage Hill MetroPark Historic Farm Tour Video to orient yourself to the Historic Farm
Step 2: Review the Carriage Hill Farm Volunteer Interpretive Guide.
Step 3: Take the Historic Farm Quiz below.
Step 4: Once your quiz has been reviewed and your virtual training qualification has been approved, you will be able to respond to the shadow experience opportunities.
SHADOW EXPERIENCES: This is an opportunity for you to observe and practice the skills necessary for a volunteer opportunity with a qualified volunteer and/or staff person. Volunteers complete shadow experiences to gain practice and master essential skills. You will need to successfully demonstrate the tasks of a Historic Interpreter in order to be checked off and qualify as a Historic Interpreter at the Daniel Arnold Farm.
Step 5: Complete your Historic Clothing Fitting
- Review the relevant Historic Clothing Guide for you: Men’s Historic Clothing Guide or Women’s Historic Clothing Guide.
- Take the relevant Historic Clothing Guide Quiz: Men’s Clothing Guide Quiz or Women’s Clothing Guide Quiz.
- Schedule a Historic Clothing Fitting. Once you have completed the Clothing Guide Quiz, the Staff Lead will contact you to schedule your personal Historic Clothing Fitting.
Once your Historic Interpreter qualifications are complete, you can begin signing up for opportunities!
Want to Branch Out?
Want to explore other ways to get involved? There are many volunteer opportunities across MetroParks that offer similar experiences, skills, or ways to make an impact.
Exploring multiple opportunities is a great way to stay involved, build new skills, and experience different parts of the parks!
Have questions?
Reach out to the Volunteer Services team at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or 937-275-7275 and ask to speak with a Volunteer Coordinator. You can also join us at a Volunteer Open House, an in-person opportunity to learn more about volunteering with Five Rivers MetroParks.

Welcome to the Team!
If you are interested in serving by applying your Historic Interpreter training to a Skilled Trade such as Historic Woodworking, Historic Blacksmith, or Textiles, please proceed to the Skilled Trades Training page here.

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