Volunteers have been at the heart of Hildene since The Friends of Hildene was established in 1975. Following Peggy Beckwith's death, a determined group of community members came together to create this volunteer-led organization with the goal of preserving Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home. Today, volunteers remain an essential and deeply valued part of this historic estate. We are grateful for the time, talents, and enthusiasm our volunteers bring to Hildene.

Becoming a volunteer at Hildene is a wonderful way to learn more about the rich history, meet people from all around the world, and help preserve and grow the estate. We offer many volunteer opportunities, as listed below, and are always interested in speaking with prospective volunteers.

Volunteers receive training and guidance, as well as monthly newsletters with updates on everything happening at Hildene. We ask that volunteers reflect Hildene’s values by providing a warm, welcoming experience for every guest, sharing their knowledge with confidence and enthusiasm, and presenting a professional appearance. Volunteer roles and time commitments vary, but all volunteers are asked to make a reliable commitment to their scheduled shifts and communicate with staff when changes arise.

In appreciation of their contributions of time and energy, volunteers become eligible for a Hildene membership after completing 20 hours of service. Additional benefits include invitations to special volunteer events, such as the Welcome Back Breakfast in May and Volunteer Appreciation Dinner in August, as well as opportunities to connect with fellow volunteers and staff throughout the year.

Docents: A docent is a volunteer who engages with visitors by sharing knowledge about Hildene’s history, the Lincoln family, and the property. Docents help bring Hildene’s stories to life and create a welcoming, meaningful experience for guests. Docents are placed at the Lincoln family home, the Pullman Car, Formal Gardens, Hildene Farm in the dene and the Goat Dairy.

Greeters: A greeter is a volunteer who welcomes guests as they arrive at different venues throughout the property, answers general questions, provides directions, and offers suggestions to help visitors make the most of their time at Hildene. Greeters are placed at the Welcome Center, the Lincoln family home, the Formal Gardens, the Goat Dairy, and the animal barn in the dene.

Tram Drivers: Seasonal – May through the end of October.Tram drivers transport guests around the property in a large golf cart, answer questions, and offer suggestions about things to see and do. A valid driver’s license is required.

Gardens: Volunteering in the gardens involves general garden maintenance, flower arranging, and harvesting vegetables and fruit. The gardens are throughout the property.

Goat Dairy: Volunteering at the Goat Dairy involves general barn maintenance, including sweeping, stacking hay, filling feed, and raking; helping feed the goats; and interacting with guests.

Hildene Farm in the dene: Volunteering at Hildene Farm in the dene involves general barn maintenance, including sweeping, stacking hay, filling feed, and raking; cleaning the chicken coop; helping feed the animals; and interacting with guests.

Guest Relations: Guest Relations volunteers work in the Museum Store, greeting guests, ringing up purchases, restocking merchandise, answering questions, assisting with clerical needs, and working as an attendant at the Membership Desk.

Special Events: Special Events volunteers assist staff on an as-needed basis with event support. Responsibilities may include set-up, check-in, and clean-up.

If you are interested in joining our volunteer community at Hildene, please click here to complete the registration form:

Apply to Become a Volunteer

Questions about volunteering at Hildene? Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator.