The Chapman estate is an historical treasure located on the Bluffs of Shell Beach, with breathtaking coastal views, beautiful gardens that include auxiliary structures such as a koi pond, begonia house, windmill, lighthouse, a turn of the century guest cottage, and a Tudor mansion constructed in 1930. Deep with history inside and out, the home is filled with art and collectibles left by Mr. Chapman for the community to enjoy.
We are seeking individuals interested in learning about the history of this wonderful estate. An interest in gardens, coastal nature, architecture, art, and local history all plays in to our tours offered at the property. We currently offer garden/property history tours of about 40 minutes duration, and our “Glimpse of the Chapman House” tours that add about a half hour inside the house admiring the art, furnishings, and collectibles.
Our Open Gates season for garden tours is April through October. House tours are scheduled year round and are in high demand, so we are looking to provide training and shadowing opportunities for the full Glimpse of the Chapman House garden history and house tours in October.
Once/week tour commitments, usually 3 hr “shifts” with 1-2 tours. Also need shadowing volunteers to accompany the lead docent on house tours so there are always 2 foundation staff in the house to guide the front and back of house tour groups that are normally capped at 12, monitor visitors, prep house for public tours (turn on lighting etc), and post-tour lockup prep.
Docents must be sure footed and able to be on their feet and talk with guests for a 90 minute tour duration, have great and friendly people/communication skills, and alert awareness to monitor guests and conditions and adapt for any noted guest mobility and safety restrictions.
