Old Fort Western Announces 2013 Summer Apprentice Program

Augusta, Maine - Old Fort Western, the 1754 National Historic Landmark fort, store, and house museum on the Kennebec River in downtown Augusta, invites children interested in local history and stewardship, who are between the ages of eight and twelve to register for our annual Summer Apprentice Program.  The program runs in week-long sessions from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. beginning with the week of June 17, 2013.

This is an opportunity to experience what life was like in the 18th century by exploring storekeeping, blacksmithing, soldiering, every day life, and more.  Apprentices will also learn about the care and stewardship of the historic site by learning proper maintenance and interpretation of the site, objects and archaeological collections to ensure the continued enjoyment of the fort by future generations.  Once graduates of the apprentice program are 13 years old, they can go on to be Junior Interpreters -- volunteering at open visitations and special events.  Many junior interpreters have become historical interpreters here at Old Fort Western.

This program costs $62.50 per week.  If interested please fill out the registration form found on line at www.oldfortwestern.org or stop by the Old Fort Western Administrative Office in the Augusta City Center.  Payment in full must be received by 4:00 p.m. Friday the week prior to the registered program session.  A maximum of twelve participants may register for any given week, so space is limited.  Discounts for Augusta residents and multiple children are available and scholarship money will be awarded on a first come, first served basis.  Please call or e-mail for more information; Old Fort Western at 626-2385 or by e-mail at oldfort@oldfortwestern.org.