Live your Pinecrest dream through our Youth Volunteer Apprentice Interpreter program!

Have you wanted to take a deeper dive into bringing to life the stories and skills of our past? Interested in taking a deeper dive into learning blacksmithing, sewing, cheesemaking, printing, or other historic skills?

This program puts teens on the front line to learn traditional skills, explore history, and gain experience working with the public.

At the Manitowoc County Historical Society, we inspire guests to ask questions about Wisconsin and the world around them. Our 60 acre property offers families a place to come together and connect with history, science, nature, art and most importantly, one another.

Our Youth Volunteer Apprentice Interpreter program teaches youth about history in a hands-on immersion environment, making learning painless, personal, and fun. We welcome young people of all backgrounds, ages 10-17.

Where Do I Volunteer?
All youth volunteer in at least one historic area. You will be paired with an adult volunteer who specializes in something you desire to learn (blacksmithing, cheesemaking, sewing, historic house skills, etc), while you learn the history and skills needed to interpret the space.

What Do I Do?
• Make our guests feel welcome. Invite them to play games and try activities.
• Talk with the public about Wisconsin history.
• Work behind the scenes with such tasks as preparing crafts and cleaning artifacts.
• Participate in media initiatives such as commercial shoots and outreach programs.
• Attend trainings covering a range of topics such as spinning, 19th century games, 19th Century life, interpretation skills, guest service, and more.
• We have high expectations of our youth volunteers. Speaking to guests and doing chores is a substantial part of the program.

How Often Do I Work?
Youth volunteer a minimum of 20 hours per year. Most students achieve this by volunteering 2-3 full days (or 4-6 half days), between the hours of 9a-5p. Some special programs occur in the evenings. We work our schedule around your needs.

How Do I Apply?
Submit a 2026 application by Thursday, April 2. We will contact all applicants to let them know whether they have been accepted into the program. Youth must be at least 10 years old by April 1, 2026 to apply.

Submitting Your Application:
Email: Education@Manitowoc
CountyHistory.org

Mail: Manitowoc County Historical Society
Apprentice Interpreter Application
924 Pinecrest Road
Manitowoc, WI 54220