Fall 2011 Bishop’s Palace Volunteer Information

Download the Bishop’s Palace volunteer application.

Can you spare just two mornings or afternoons a month? Volunteering is a wonderful way to meet others who share interests and to spend time in Galveston’s most prestigious and authentic Victorian home, Bishop’s Palace.  Volunteers with an interest in history and who enjoy working with a diverse range of people are needed. People who can spare just two mornings or afternoons a month and love history and architecture are perfect candidates! Learn more about volunteering at Bishop’s Palace.

TOUR GUIDE:  Bishop’s Palace recruits volunteers who enjoy working with the public and assisting visitors to share the Museum's history and collection with the general public. Tour Guides greet visitors to the Museum and provide tours of the house to visitors of all ages. They also provide a vital link between the history of the house and its visitors. Guides are expected to commit 2 weekdays (Monday-Friday) or 1 weekend day (Saturday-Sunday) per month for 4 hour shifts. Volunteers receive extensive training and ongoing enrichment is provided. Volunteers may also choose to guide for Group Tours.  Guides are required to complete and a five week guide training, submit to a background check and must be 16 or older.

VISITOR SERVICE VOLUNTEERS provide a vital link between the history of Bishop’s Palace and its visitors. VSVs greet visitors to the Museum and introduce them to the Victorian period while awaiting a tour as well as during the Self-Guided Tour and Public Programs. VSVs answer visitor questions about the neighborhood and Bishop’s Palace, and may assist with self-guided tours.

The Benefits

• Continuing education programs
• Invitations and discounts to lectures, programs and special events
• 15% off on merchandise in Galveston Historical Foundation Museum Shops
• Annual recognition party
• The chance to make connections with people who are interested in the same things that you are!

Download the Bishop’s Palace volunteer application.

2011 Training Schedule

Classes will be held from 9am-11am at Bishop’s Palace, 1402 Broadway

Class Two October 25
Overview
The role of the Catholic Church in Bishop’s Palace History
Nicholas Clayton, 1900 Storm
Gresham Family

Class Three November 1
Galveston Architectural History with a focus on East End
Galveston History
About GHF

Class Four November 8
Overview of BP Tour Script
Room Studies

Class Four November 15
Is This House Haunted? & Other Frequently Asked Questions
No Tour is Too Big or Too Small, Giving a Good Tour
Safety, Procedures, Risk Management