Bring History to Life This Summer:
Apply for the Living History Internship at Scotts Bluff National Monument
Are you a history buff with a flair for the dramatic? Don’t just read about the past – immerse yourself in it with a Summer Living History Internship at the iconic Scotts Bluff National Monument.
Step Into the Dusty Boots of an Oregon Trail Pioneer
In the Summer Living History Internship program, you’ll trade modern times for the grit and adventure of the 1850s emigrant experience.
Just ask recent college grad Madison Kinney, now a park ranger at Scotts Bluff, who raves:
“My favorite part is making connections between our visitors and the emigrants of the 1850s. We have all these period objects that we use, and when visitors can actually hold them, they get a visceral feeling of pioneer life. Suddenly that artifact connects them to the experiences of those who walked the Oregon Trail before us.”
Whether decked out in buckskin or crisp prairie dress, you’ll be tasked with regaling visitors with the struggles, triumphs, and captivating tales of the great westward migration.
Your enthusiasm will help even the youngest explorers relate, as Kinney noted:
“People of all ages, including teenagers and young adults, traveled the arduous Oregon Trail. Having an animated young person out connecting with families helps our frontier story truly come alive.”
An Unforgettable Summer Adventure (with Serious Work Perks)
Don’t think of this as just another summer gig. As a Living History Intern, you’ll receive:
- Competitive pay of $15/hour
- Flexible part-time hours: 9am-1pm, 2-5 days/week
- Invaluable experience in public speaking, historical interpretation, and theatrical performance
- The inside scoop on how to launch a fulfilling park service career!
- No experience? No problem!
You’ll be fully trained and mentored by park staff as you master activities like:
- Wearing authentic period clothing and wielding historical props
- Recounting dramatic tales from the perspectives of pioneers
- Forging engaging interactions with visitors of all ages
“Having young interns helps our younger visitors relate to the emigrants, many of whom were their age.”
Seize This Chance to Walk the Pathways of Oregon Trail History
Spaces are limited for this truly one-of-a-kind summer internship. Applications will be accepted until the program spaces are filled.
To claim your place as Scotts Bluff’s next living legend, contact:
Eric Grunwald, Park Ranger
308-436-9718
eric_grunwald@nps.gov
Learn more about the monument at the official NPS website.
Share this opportunity with any budding thespians, history nerds, or outdoor enthusiasts in your life
After all, the more hands on the wagon train the merrier! Don’t let this chance to step into the pages of history pass you down the trail.
This Program Brought to You by Black Hills Parks and Forests Association Members and Customers
The Internship and supplies for the costumed interpretation program at Scotts Bluff is brought to you by the generous support of BHPFA members and all the visitor customers who make purchases at the monument store.
Learn how you can support programs like this one at National Park Service and USDA Forest Service sites in South Dakota and Nebraska by becoming a member of BHPFA today!
