Website MV African American Heritage Trail
The African American Heritage Trail of Martha’s Vineyard offers guided tours that explore the Island’s rich African American history.
Are you passionate about history? Do you love working with people and sharing information? Interested in cultural preservation and historical research?
The African American Heritage Trail of Martha’s Vineyard is seeking historical tour guide interns to lead guided tours along the Island’s historic African American Heritage Trail! Interns will take visitors through Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, and across the island, sharing the powerful stories behind the plaques that mark significant historical sites. In this hands-on program, the participants will develop public speaking, storytelling, and leadership skills while deepening their understanding of African American history and cultural preservation. Interns will also engage in historical research and community outreach, gaining valuable experience in education and tourism. This opportunity is ideal for students or young professionals interested in history, public speaking, education, and museum or nonprofit work.
15-25 hours/week; June-August
About the Employer
The African American Heritage Trail of Martha’s Vineyard offers guided tours that explore the Island’s rich African American history. Our tours take visitors through Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, and across the entire island, following a route marked by historical plaques that share key stories of resilience, achievement, and cultural heritage. Each stop provides a glimpse into the past, highlighting the contributions of African Americans to Martha’s Vineyard.
Details
Start Date: May/June | flexible
Hours: 15-25 hours/week
Duration: Through August, with the possibility for extension into the fall for interested candidates.
Opportunity Open to: High School Students, College Students, Young Professionals (20s)
Duties + Responsibilities
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Lead guided tours of the African American Heritage Trail, sharing historical narratives with visitors.
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Receive training and mentorship in public speaking, storytelling, and historical interpretation.
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Conduct historical research, including archival work and oral history collection, to enhance tour content.
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Engage in community outreach, helping to promote the trail and its educational initiatives.
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Assist in the maintenance and development of tour materials and historical site documentation.
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Collaborate with mentors, historians, and community leaders to deepen knowledge of African American history.
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Participate in weekly meetings with program coordinators to discuss progress and receive feedback.
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Support marketing efforts by documenting tours, engaging on social media, or writing blog posts when applicable.
Skills + Experience
Required skills:
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Valid Driver’s license + clean driving record: the candidate must be comfortable driving groups of people (not required for high school students)
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Strong communication and public speaking skills
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Ability to engage with diverse audiences and work in a public-facing role
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Interest in history, storytelling, and cultural preservation
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Ability to work independently and as part of a team
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Strong time management and reliability
Bonus points for:
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Previous experience in public speaking, performing, or leading group activities
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Background in history, education, tourism, or museum studies
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Experience in customer service or community engagement
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Comfort with research and handling historical materials
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Adaptability and ability to think on your feet in live tour settings
The ideal candidate is:
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Curious about a career in history, education, public speaking, cultural preservation, or tourism
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Passionate about storytelling, engaging with people, and sharing important historical narratives
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Has past experience with public speaking, research, performing, or customer service
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Is eager to lead guided tours, communicate confidently with diverse audiences, and work both independently and as part of a team
Compensation
Compensation: $15–$20 per hour, based on experience and role.
Perks:
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Mentorship opportunities with historians, educators, and community leaders.
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Flexible scheduling based on availability and program needs.
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Networking opportunities with local professionals and nonprofit organizations.
Send your resume and a short cover letter with the subject “Historical Tour Guide Internship Application” to Chris at Lightingthetrail@gmail.com
To apply, email your details to Lightingthetrail@gmail.com