Docent Volunteers
McHenry Mansion’s volunteers bring history to life as docents. Docents guide visitors through the mansion, sharing stories about the McHenry family and pointing out antique furnishings and artifacts. Volunteers receive 10 hours of training and a binder filled with historical information to help them lead engaging tours. A small fee covers training materials.
New docents are encouraged to join the McHenry Mansion Foundation and commit to at least 49 volunteer hours each year. These hours can be earned by leading public and school tours, assisting with special events, and participating in various committees. Volunteers also become part of the Docent Council, which meets on the last Tuesday of every month for business discussions and presentations on Victorian history.
Visit the McHenry Mansion Visitor Center to pick up an application and start your journey as a volunteer.
New docents are encouraged to join the McHenry Mansion Foundation and commit to at least 49 volunteer hours each year. These hours can be earned by leading public and school tours, assisting with special events, and participating in various committees. Volunteers also become part of the Docent Council, which meets on the last Tuesday of every month for business discussions and presentations on Victorian history.
Visit the McHenry Mansion Visitor Center to pick up an application and start your journey as a volunteer.
Merry Maids & Groomsmen Program
Our volunteers also serve in the Merry Maids & Groomsmen Program, which brings history into classrooms. Volunteers, dressed in authentic period clothing, visit local schools to give engaging presentations about the McHenry family and life in the Victorian era. These hour-long sessions feature historical photographs, artifacts, and storytelling to spark students’ curiosity.
During the 2022 to 2023 school year, this program reached 11 different schools and 850 students. After the presentation, students are encouraged to visit the mansion with their families. Schools interested in scheduling a classroom visit can request the program when booking a McHenry Mansion tour. This program is also available for service groups and community organizations upon request—free of charge.
During the 2022 to 2023 school year, this program reached 11 different schools and 850 students. After the presentation, students are encouraged to visit the mansion with their families. Schools interested in scheduling a classroom visit can request the program when booking a McHenry Mansion tour. This program is also available for service groups and community organizations upon request—free of charge.
Tender Loving Care Committee
The Tender Loving Care Committee maintains McHenry Mansion's beauty. These volunteers specialize in detailed cleaning and preservation, ensuring that silver is polished, furniture is gleaming, and chandeliers sparkle. This committee meets monthly or as needed to keep the mansion looking its best for visitors.
The Guild
Our volunteers also help raise vital funds through The Guild. This group organizes special events, including dinners, teas, and holiday celebrations. The money raised supports the mansion’s maintenance, restoration, and educational programs.
Special Events Committee
The Special Events Committee plays a key role in organizing McHenry Mansion’s biggest annual events. Volunteers coordinate the 4th of July festivities, the McHenry Mansion Foundation Annual Meeting, and the McHenry Mansion Foundation Christmas Party. Their efforts create memorable experiences for the community while helping to preserve this historic landmark.