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Volunteering

Volunteers play an active part in the mission of the Oklahoma History Center (OHC) Museum, assisting with the daily and ongoing operations of the museum.

Collage of volunteers in various roles at the Oklahoma History Center Museum

“The History Center treats its volunteers better and appreciates them more than any other of the several organizations that I volunteer for.” —Barbara Kinney

“As a volunteer, I find immense joy in being part of an institution that not only educates and inspires but also cultivates a sense of community, reminding us that history is not merely a subject but a living, breathing testament to our resilience, progress, and endless possibilities.” —Barb Buettner

“Volunteering at the Oklahoma History Center has been GREAT. The number one qualification is loving to interact with people of ALL AGES. I have learned more about the history of Oklahoma while showing other people ‘stuff’ about Oklahoma. The salary is better than best—smiles from the people who come visit—especially the grade school children.” —Martha Lane

“I am not from Oklahoma; I am not even from the United States. Being a volunteer at OHC was the best way to learn local history, expand my knowledge of the country, and connect to the community. There are so many ways to engage, from school trips to history talks, and organ concerts. It never fails to amaze me.” —Natalia Fulton



Volunteer Benefits

  1. Complimentary Family membership to the Oklahoma Historical Society
  2. Access to reference materials, close working relationships with professional staff and periodic training sessions
  3. 20 percent discount on Museum Store purchases
  4. Free or reduced admission to training activities, classes, public events
  5. Annual Volunteer field trip
  6. Annual Volunteer Appreciation Banquet

Application Process


Apply Online to Volunteer

Contact the volunteer coordinator at 405-522-0754 or steve.hawkins@history.ok.gov to request an appointment to discuss volunteering and complete an application.


Internship Information



There are Numerous Ways to Serve as a Volunteer

Gallery Hosts and Monitors

Collage showing a six volunteers in matching blue shirts standing in the entry, and a volunteer handing out small U.S. flags to visitors.
Hosting and monitoring the Oklahoma History Center Museum galleries ensures the visitors’ safety and protects our precious museum artifacts.

Meet and Greet

Collage of a volunteer speaking to visitors and a group of volunteers seated at a restuarant.A smiling volunteer stands with visitors at the Oklahoma History Center
Being the first smiling face visitors see is one of the Oklahoma History Center’s most important jobs.

Collections

Collage of a beaded vest featuring gold stars and flags, the US Army Medal of Honor on a blue ribbon, and a Peace Medal.
The Oklahoma History Center Museum has over 110,000 items in the collection. Assisting with researching, cataloging, and photographing is vital to the care of these artifacts entrusted to us.

Special Events

Lance Luce seated at a theatre organ A smiling man at a History Center festival A group of presidential living history reenactors standing with a volunteer Two smiling volunteers great guests at the Oklahoma History Center atrium
The History Center offers the best public events to the community. Volunteers may attend as well as participate in several different capacities.

Living History

Collage of living history figures including a Union solider with Abraham Lincoln, and a woman in a large hat, ornate blouse, holding a fan
We welcome volunteers who incorporate historical tools, activities, and dress to give observers and participants the sense of stepping back in time.

Tour Guides and Docents

A man demonstrates a touchscreen to a young woman
After extensive training where they acquire a working knowledge of the museum, volunteers are encouraged to lead guided tours for our visitors.

Hands-on History Carts

Collage with a child holding a United States flag, a volunteer stands with a space-themed cart, and volunteer in period dress with a hands-on history cart
Hands-on learning is a rewarding way for students and visitors to explore Oklahoma history. Volunteers may wish to take part in this effective method of teaching.

Class Instructors

Collage with a volunteer instructor speaking to a class, and the volunteer smiling for the camera
Some volunteers enjoy sharing their knowledge in History Center sponsored classes. The opportunity to teach or assist in these classes is available.