Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site is powered by the remarkable dedication of its volunteer community — the Volunteer Pioneers. Many opportunities are available, and if you have a love of history, gardening, cooking, sewing, education, or community involvement, this is the place for you.
Volunteers sew period clothing worn by our interpreters, portray 19th-century characters in the living history program, create unique gift items to sell in the gift shop, make sales in the gift shop, staff special events, work the gardens on both the Lincoln and Sargent farms, and help with landscaping to maintain the beauty and accessibility of the site for visitors.
The Visitor Center, which is staffed entirely by volunteers, houses a museum, an exhibition gallery, and an auditorium where a short video prepares visitors for their trip to the farm. The gift shop — managed and operated entirely by volunteers — features period items of interest and many locally sourced and handcrafted goods.
Opportunities for involvement are many and varied. Whether you want to be front and center in period costume or work behind the scenes, there is a place for you at Lincoln Log Cabin.
Living History Interpreter
Portray 19th-century characters on the Lincoln and Sargent farms, engaging visitors in the sights, sounds, and stories of 1840s rural Illinois.
Visitor Center Docent
Welcome visitors, answer questions, and help orient guests before their visit to the farms. No period costume required.
Gift Shop Volunteer
Help manage the all-volunteer Goosenest Prairie Gift Shop, assisting customers and keeping the shop running smoothly.
Sewing & Costuming
Sew period-accurate clothing and accessories for our interpreters. Sewing experience helpful but not required for all projects.
Garden & Grounds
Work in the historic gardens on the Lincoln and Sargent farms, and help maintain the grounds and natural areas throughout the site.
Special Events Staff
Help make our signature events — from the Harvest Frolic to the Torchlight Hike — run smoothly for thousands of visitors.
Children's Programming
Assist with the Saturday Story Series, Homeschool Historians, and other education programs for young visitors and families.
Gift Making
Create unique handcrafted items for sale in the gift shop. Everything from woodworking to fiber arts to baked goods.
New Volunteer Orientations — Monthly
New Volunteer Orientations are held on select Saturdays throughout the year from 9 am to noon at the Visitor Center. Get a "backstage" tour, meet the team, ask questions, and take your first step toward becoming a Volunteer Pioneer. Check the calendar of events for upcoming orientation dates, or contact us to RSVP.
We welcome volunteers from all walks of life and would love to talk to your clubs, organizations, scout troops, or civic groups about how your members can get involved. We can schedule a presentation and tailor volunteer opportunities to your group's interests and availability.
Whether you can give one Saturday a month or commit to a full season, there is a meaningful role waiting for you. Contact us today to get started.
