Opportunities

The Old Saybrook Historical Society is an all volunteer organization.  Even though we have many dedicated people there is always room for more.

Some opportunities are for annual events, some on-going on a weekly basis.  Please browse the list and if anything interests you, give us a call.

Archives and Library
Cataloging, data entry, tech help with website and computer network, research and writing articles for newsletter, historical and genealogical research for visitors as well as on-line queries, transcribing, and more.  The Archives are open two mornings a week, year round.

Fund Raising Events
Our Ways and Means Committee plans and executes our large fund-raisers.  Past examples are the Castle Inn Christmas, Holiday House Tours, Big Green Truck, Garden Party, etc.  Saybrook Colony’s 375th anniversary is being celebrated in 2010.  Many hands make light work-please help us to make this and future events a success.

Newsletter
We publish six times a year.  We need writers, editors, and as always, new ideas.  Our members are scattered throughout the USA so for many this is their only contact with us.

Website
This is our newest volunteer category.  Besides technical support, there is always a need for new content.

Exhibits
Our Exhibit Hall was opened in 2005 and has since showcased a variety of programs, from Saybrook in the 1950’s to “The Other Hart’s” highlighting the female Hart’s contributions.  The Gallery is open in June, July and August in conjunction with Hart House hours, but this committee’s work starts well before.

Guides/Docents
Whenever the Hart House is open for tours, well-trained, knowledgeable volunteers are there.  We endeavor to provide anecdotal information as well to add interest in the everyday life in Saybrook at that time. 

Student Volunteer Program.
The Society, with much assistance from the school system and Youth and Family Services, offers many opportunities for high school students to volunteer.  These activities increase their knowledge of Old Saybrook history and aid the Society in continuing its important work.  The program focuses on ways for students to work side by side with members in all facets of the organization from serving as guides to visitors to the Hart House, working in the gardens, assisting in the Archives building or on special projects, such as the celebration of the 375th anniversary of the founding of the Saybrook Colony in 2010.  Students are required to fill out the appropriate application; new students must attend two training sessions and returning students attend one follow-up session; all students are expected to have a desire to learn more about our history and work with others to preserve and share it.  Please contact us for the application.

Hospitality
This committee is responsible for organizing various Society events, i.e.: Wassail Party, receptions, annual meeting, during the year and assuring that other designated events are provided with refreshments, if needed.

Gardens
This committee continues to create a place of beauty to frame the Hart House and Archives Building.  Plan, promote and maintain colonial plantings of the period 1767-1820.  The “Bottoms-Up Club” meets one morning a week from April (weather permitting) through October.