THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
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.
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.
Book with Harwich Historical Society
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Harwich Historical Society · Harwich, Massachusetts
The Harwich Historical Society invites outdoor enthusiasts and community-minded travelers to step into the past this summer at their historic sites. Located in the charming town of Harwich, Massachusetts, the Society offers visitors a chance to connect with local history through its two standout locations: the Brooks Academy Museum and Crowell Barn. These sites are key landmarks that showcase the area's rich maritime and agricultural heritage, with structures dating back to the 19th century. Volunteering here isn’t just about giving back—it's an immersive experience that allows you to engage deeply with the history of Cape Cod.
As a volunteer, you'll assist visitors in navigating self-guided tours, providing insightful answers about the exhibits and history that bring these landmarks to life. The role offers a behind-the-scenes look at preservation efforts and community events, making it a meaningful way for travelers to contribute to the local culture. This opportunity is especially appealing to those interested in history, community service, or simply curious about Cape Cod’s past. The Society’s engaging programs foster a genuine connection between visitors and the stories that shaped the region.
Situated in a scenic coastal area, Harwich offers a blend of seaside charm and historical depth, making it an ideal stop for travelers exploring Cape Cod beyond the usual beaches. The volunteer program runs throughout the summer, giving participants flexible days to hop into a rewarding role that enhances their trip and supports a treasured local institution. Whether you're a history buff, a family looking for educational activities, or a traveler seeking authentic community experiences, volunteering with the Harwich Historical Society adds a layer of meaningful engagement to your Cape Cod visit.
Joining this program provides a chance to meet locals, learn fascinating stories, and make a lasting impact—all while enjoying the scenic beauty of the area. Experience the rich history of Harwich firsthand and contribute to preserving its stories for future generations.
easy.
Flexible; shifts vary from 2-4 hours.
Moderate; comfortable walking involved
No prior experience is necessary; training and guidance are provided.
Shifts are flexible, typically lasting 2-4 hours, scheduled according to your availability.
Minors can volunteer with parental consent; age restrictions may apply for certain roles.
This role is volunteer-based; it offers a rewarding cultural experience rather than monetary compensation.
You can register through the Harwich Historical Society’s website or contact them directly for availability.
Absolutely—many volunteers return season after season to deepen their connection.
Harwich played a vital role in Cape Cod’s maritime trade during the 19th century, and many of its historic structures preserve that legacy.
The Society actively supports preservation efforts and encourages visitors to respect historic sites and local landscapes.
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.
Book with Harwich Historical Society