The California State Railroad Museum will be recruiting adults (Ages 18+) who are interested in volunteering to help communicate the West’s fascinating heritage of railroading and the California Gold Rush. For those interested, a special, drop-in Volunteer Open House is scheduled. Volunteer applications are being accepted now through 9/18, and will be followed by an interview and selection process before training begins.

Each year, more than 500 men and women volunteer for the California State Railroad Museum’s programs -- including weekend excursion train operations, track construction, restoration and maintenance, even clerical work. A background in history is not required to become a volunteer. In fact, most of the volunteers in the popular program began with little knowledge of railroads or the Gold Rush. As individuals become more familiar with the Museum’s varied and frequent programs, many volunteers take on additional responsibilities, such as conducting research or giving talks to community organizations. New docents can choose to work in the Museum interacting with visitors from around the world, working in the railroad restoration shops on rare and unique railroad equipment, work on the Sacramento Southern Railroad, or other jobs in this dynamic and fun environment.

Volunteering represents a serious commitment of at least 84 volunteer hours annually, but the hours are flexible and the rewards can be tremendous. Docents receive perks such as a discount at the Museum Store, preferential and/or early access to selected special events, and the pride of working at North America’s finest and most visited railroad museum that is also a proud Smithsonian Affiliate. Volunteer applications can be downloaded here.