Tour guides and interpreters
Walk visitors through the blockhouses and barracks and tell the story of the 1808 fort and the sieges of the War of 1812. We train you on the history.
Volunteer
Give your time to the fort
A small staff cannot run a living-history site alone. Volunteers make the tours, the reenactments, and the events possible, and there is a place for whatever you enjoy doing.
The replica fort you can walk through today was built in the mid-1980s, and much of that labor came from volunteers. People in and around Fort Madison gave their weekends to raise the walls and buildings. That spirit still carries the work. When you volunteer, you join a long line of neighbors who decided this history was worth their effort.
You do not need a background in history or any special skills. We will train you, pair you with experienced volunteers, and match you to work you actually like. A few hours during the summer season makes a real difference, and many of our volunteers say it is the best part of their week.
Roles we need filled
Pick what fits you, or tell us what you have in mind. We will find a good spot for you.
Reenactors
Bring the garrison to life at living-history weekends, from drill and musket demonstrations to camp life and period crafts.
Grounds and maintenance
Keep the palisade, walkways, and gardens in good repair so the site is safe and welcoming all season.
Events and visitor services
Help set up, greet guests, sell tickets, and keep things running at reenactments, fundraisers, and school visits.
Office and behind the scenes
Lend a hand with mailings, records, photography, social media, and the steady work that keeps a small nonprofit going.
Education and school programs
Work with teachers and students on field trips and classroom visits that connect young people to local history.
Tell us how you would like to help
Fill out the form and our volunteer coordinator will follow up. You can also call us if you would rather talk it through.
Prefer to call? Reach us at 319-470-3642.