Celebrate Independence Day—1850s style—at Island Farm! On Friday, July 4, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., the Farm will welcome visitors for a lively historic holiday featuring musket fire, traditional games, and a public reading of the Declaration of Independence. Island Farm will be bustling with energy and celebration, and we invite volunteers to help bring this special day to life in the following roles:
Chicken Tender
Volunteers will provide scratch feed to visitors and offer guidance on how to safely feed and interact with our friendly farm chickens.
Craftsman
Paper hats were a popular and accessible form of festive headwear in 19th-century America, often worn during patriotic celebrations, parades, and community gatherings. Creating paper hats reflects the ingenuity and hands-on craftsmanship of the era, using simple materials to mark special occasions. Volunteers will assist staff and visitors in making paper hats, offering a fun, family-friendly activity that connects creativity with historical tradition.
Bubble Blowing
Using our special bubble wands, volunteers will help visitors create bubbles up to 15 feet long. This role includes demonstrating bubble techniques and assisting younger visitors as they learn to use the wands and enjoy a bit of old-fashioned outdoor fun.
All activities will take place outdoors. Volunteers should bring a snack, wear close-toed shoes, and bring a reusable water bottle. Feel free to bring any additional items that help make your time at Island Farm festive and enjoyable.
Volunteer Shifts:
8:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
11:45 a.m. – 3:15 p.m.
Three volunteers are needed for the morning shift and three for the afternoon shift. Please arrive promptly to meet with staff and receive a brief site orientation before the event begins.
All volunteer roles offer the opportunity to wear historic clothing, or an Island Farm t-shirt will be provided (and yours to keep). If you are interested in costuming for this event, please email the Administrative Coordinator.
Admission to the event is included with your volunteer contribution—blow bubbles, feed chickens, and make paper hats as we celebrate America’s 250th birthday!
FAQ
Where will activities take place?
All activities will take place outdoors.
Are volunteer shifts family-friendly?
Yes. Volunteer shifts are family-friendly. All volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a legal adult.
Are volunteer shifts accessible for those with mobility challenges?
Yes. All volunteer roles can be performed while seated and can be adapted for individuals with mobility challenges. Please email the Administrative Coordinator for additional details.
Please email the Administrative Coordinator at jane@obcinc.org.
