Volunteer

Become a part of Matawan’s History!  The Matawan Historical Society is always looking for volunteers to keep our organization growing.  Positions are available based on your area of interest, your special talents, and your available time — anywhere from a few hours to a few days per month.  We will provide training for all positions.

There are several committees in need of help. Here are current volunteer opportunities:

300^th Anniversary Committee

2023 marks the 300^th anniversary of the Burrowes Mansion, which was built in 1723.  We’re now planning some big events, including a reeenactment of the 1778 raid on the Mansion and a colonial encampment.  This will take place on the weekend of Friday, June 2nd through Sunday, June 4th. Other activities are also planned during the year, and we need people to help set up and coordinate these events.

300th anniversary Volunteer Areas of Interest

1. Budget Committee – Sets budget on proposed costs for event.  Keeps track of all monies collected.
   a) Sponsorships Commitee – marketing and solicitations for sponsors based on needs from budget.  Works with Budget Committee.
   b) Ticketing, Merchandise and Product Sales – Set up a ticket program to include pricing, event access, security, fund collections, donations, etc. for merchandise and other products sold including possible outside vendors.  Works with Budget Committee.
2. Marketing and Public Outreach – to include posters, social media blasts, graphic arts work, t-shirt design, dignitary notifications, etc.
3. Reenactment Committee – to include scripting, storyline, casting, and research.
4. Uniforms, Costuming for Volunteer Actors and for other needs – Organizes the costumes, added props, and uniforms necessary for volunteer reenactors and for tour guides and for other needs during the weekend.
5. Logistics – to include street layout, mapping, seating, bleachers, sounds and visual aids, parking, transportation, shuttle services.
   a) Liaison and site preparation – Primary point of contact for police, fire, DPW, Recreation Dept.  Works with Logistics.
   b) Hospitality – Cocktail Reception – Set up and organize private cocktail reception/encampment tours for sponsors and volunteers.  Works with Logistics.
6. Special Exhibits and Museum Operations – Help set up exhibits for the 300th Anniversary year and tours for the weekend event and other anniversary events.

Museum Committee

Docents – We are looking for tour guides (docents) who can give tours of the Burrowes Mansion on the first and third Sundays of the month, and for special events. Volunteer time is flexible, and we will work with you to accommodate your schedule.  Training materials are provided.

Research – If you’re interested in participating in important historical research, we have opportunities working with our Society archivist on a number of interesting tasks.  A complete description of current projects can be found at this link: bit.ly/3IUSqE5

Communications Committee

We’re looking for folks to help with social media, write responses to those donating or wishing to donate items to the Burrowes Mansion Museum, and promote the Society to the public.

Membership Committee

The membership of the Society is growing every day.  If you’re interested in helping to manage our membership program, please let us know.  In 2023, we hope to implement new membership management software, and we’re looking for people who can advise us in this area.  We also need volunteers to track membership inquiries, and handle registration of members, update the membership lists, and respond to questions relating to membership.

Facilities Committee

If you love old houses and are interested in their upkeep, you may be able to help us maintain the 300 year-old Burrowes Mansion.  We always have a variety of projects involving the building and grounds.  Our goal is to keep the Mansion in top condition.

Finance Committee

This committee oversees the funds of the Society and prepares our budgets.  If you’re interested in finances and planning, we can accommodate your interests.

How to Volunteer

If you’re interesting in volunteering for any of the above activities, please fill out the form below.  A Society member from the appropriate Committee will contact you as soon as possible.