Fort Concho to Host Docent Training for Volunteers

Fort Concho will host a docent training for volunteers who meet and greet visitors to the historic site on May 24, 27, 29 and 31.

According to Wikipedia, "Museum docent" is a title given to persons who serve as guides and educators for the institutions they serve, usually on a voluntary basis.

The training for the volunteer docents will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 24, and Saturday, May 31, and at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 27, and Thursday, May 29. All of the training sessions will be in the fort’s Living History Stables at 234 Henry O. Flipper St.

Fort Concho staff and volunteers will present instructional talks to expand the knowledge of current docents and will begin the training for prospective new members. Topics will include a photographic history of Fort Concho (May 24), a history of the Grierson family (May 27), military clothing and equipment (May 29), and a guided tour of the site’s buildings (May 31). 

Docents traditionally work three-hour shifts from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on Saturdays and from 1:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. With self-guided tours offered on weekdays, docents can now work any day of the week, including leading guided weekday tours. Docents also assist with some special groups during the weekdays and occasional evening events at the fort.

Scheduling is flexible for Fort Concho volunteers, who are asked to work at least one three-hour shift per month. Docents are not required to wear period clothing, but that option is available and volunteers may acquire the proper clothing or uniform.

For more information about the docent program or other volunteer opportunities at Fort Concho, contact Visitor/Volunteer Services Coordinator Cory Robinson at [email protected] or 325-657-4444.