The Maine Historical Society Education and Visitor Services Intern

The Maine Historical Society, founded in 1822, focuses on ”preserving history, engaging minds, and connecting Maine.” During my summer interning for MHS, I worked closely with their Education and Visitor Services departments in order to connect virtually with Maine residents, school groups, and those interested in Maine history from all over the country. ​

Major projects included research on this year’s bicentennial, maintenance of MHS’s virtual tour of the Henry Wadsworth-Longfellow House and Museum, and conversations on different educational approaches throughout the pandemic. Having the opportunity to communicate with different organizations from all over the country was my favorite part, as it allowed me to see the multitude of ways that my interests--museum outreach, education and history--can combine in unique and innovative ways. I gained skills in communication, specifically within a virtual environment, as well as a broader sense of how history can come to life for an audience, whether in person or over Zoom. ​

All in all, I am glad to now have a better sense of the history surrounding my home the past four years, as well as a peek into future career paths within the worlds of museum studies, history, and outreach. ​