Discover a unique way to connect with Cape Cod’s history by volunteering with the Harwich Historical Society this summer. Assist visitors and gain insights into local heritage while contributing to a valued community institution.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
Flexible; shifts vary from 2-4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate; comfortable walking involved
Wildlife
History
Harwich played a vital role in Cape Cod’s maritime trade during the 19th century, and many of its historic structures preserve that legacy.
Conservation
The Society actively supports preservation efforts and encourages visitors to respect historic sites and local landscapes.
Harwich Historical Society
Discover a unique way to connect with Cape Cod’s history by volunteering with the Harwich Historical Society this summer. Assist visitors and gain insights into local heritage while contributing to a valued community institution.
Harwich Historical Society preserves and interprets the local history of Harwich, Massachusetts, through public programs, walking tours, workshops, and museum exhibits. The society operates from historic properties including Brooks Academy Museum and Crowell Barn, offering seasonal experiences that connect residents and visitors with maritime heritage, community stories, and traditional crafts. Programs include guided walking tours — such as Pine Grove Cemetery Walking Tour, Captains’ Row Walking Tour, and Harwich Center Walking Tour — lantern tours at East Harwich Union Cemetery, and a ten-week Fall Decoy Carving Workshop hosted in the historic Anthony Elmer Crowell studio and led by Master Woodcarver Paul Phillips. The society also organizes volunteer opportunities, inviting community members to staff self-guided tours and support museum operations during the summer season. Public events often showcase period photographs, local biographies of sea captains, merchants, and influential families such as the Chase family, and interpretive storytelling that highlights architectural styles from the 1740s through the 1940s. Scheduled dates for specific tours are published seasonally; examples include Pine Grove Cemetery tours on July 12 and August 16, and Captains’ Row tours on July 6 and August 9. Lantern Tours and Harwich Center walks are offered on select dates and may include amplified earpieces for enhanced listening.
Brooks Academy Museum and Crowell Barn host exhibits and interpretive displays year-round during scheduled public hours and special events seasonally.
Located In
Harwich, MA
Historic Cape Cod community
Decoy Workshop
10-week course
Hands-on instruction with a master carver
Walking Tours
3 distinct routes
Pine Grove, Captains’ Row, Harwich Center
Volunteer Season
Summer 2025
Sign up to staff museum tours
Reserve a spot on a walking tour, register for the decoy carving workshop, or sign up to volunteer for Summer 2025.
Wear comfortable shoes
Expect to walk and stand for extended periods while guiding visitors.
Bring water and sun protection
Stay hydrated and protected from sun exposure during your shifts.
Engage with visitors
Share your enthusiasm for local history to enhance their experience.
Arrive early or stay late
Maximize your volunteer hours by arriving early or staying after tours.
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for standing and walking during volunteer shifts.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protects against sun exposure while assisting outdoors.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during your volunteer shift.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Notebook or tablet for notes
Helpful for keeping track of visitor questions or tour details.