Cultural Sector Historic Building Preservation Internship
In 1856 a group of history lovers founded the Staten Island Historical Society. They set out to collect, share and preserve the history of the community. In the mid-20th century, the organization developed a grand plan to establish a living history village and historical museum at the heart of Staten Island, in the neighborhood that had been the county seat for hundreds of years. Now operating as Historic Richmond Town (HRT), the organization has saved the largest collection of the oldest houses in New York State.
Historic Richmond Town was the leading example to New York City’s preservation work and influenced the establishment of the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission. In its heyday, the preservation and restoration department at HRT boasted a team of 15 skilled workers year-round. We are reestablishing the prominence of the preservation and restoration program and building upon its legacy.
Historic Richmond Town includes New York City’s living history village, a historical museum, an arboretum, a working family farm, and two other historic sites - including one of the oldest houses in New York State. Over 100,000 people visit annually to enjoy tours, education programs, museum exhibits, and special events. Historic Richmond Town is proud to be an equal opportunity employment workplace dedicated to pursuing and hiring a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work and learning environment and look for future team members who share that same value.
OUR PEOPLE
At Historic Richmond Town, we co-create cultural leaders who work to improve our community. Our people are united by a shared belief in the power and necessity of public history, and work together to effectively create meaningful experiences for our visitors.
DESCRIPTION
The Historic Building Preservation Internship is an opportunity for a person to gain hands-on experience in the building trades through historic building preservation and restoration best practices, learning directly from and working with master craftsmen. Reporting to the Lead Preservationist, intern’s duties will include the following:
Learn about historic building materials, period specifications, and traditional tools
Restoring and preserving architectural aspects such as windows, doors, sashes, cabinetry, moldings and more
Learn hands-on restoration practices in accordance with NYC’s Landmarks Preservation Commission
Learn how to safely operate machinery and tools, including aerial lifts, and fall protection
The internship has flexible dates and comes with a sizable stipend. No room and board available.
Qualifications:
Should be currently enrolled in or have completed a graduate study (historic preservation, museum studies, public history, American History, or similar) and/or have worked in a relevant trade such as carpentry, cabinetry or masonry. Qualified candidates must have an interest in historic building preservation. Intern should be organized, mature, professional, and willing to work outdoors doing physical tasks. An in-person interview is required.
(8 – 35 hours per week – flexible schedule depending on availability and prior training)
Application Deadline: Rolling Admissions
If interested, please send cover letter and resume to: cwalser[at]historicrichmondtown.org