In August I will have been with LHF for 20 years.

These days most people don’t stay at their jobs that long – why have I? Because I honestly can’t think of any place I’d rather be. Now some day, I might leave to join another organization, but it’s not in my thoughts now. Has it been perfect? No, of course not, but even when it wasn’t, it was always interesting and never boring! And, I keep learning every day. I love Living History Farms.

What do I love?

• The people –

Our volunteers:

*The skills, enthusiasm, and devotion you bring to your positions continue to amaze me.

*I’ve observed or been part of many heart-warming experiences as we have helped a volunteer find fulfillment in his or her time here. For example, watching a 13 year old grow up through the volunteer ranks as a Day Camp Jr. Counselor to a historical interpreter, and then maybe return as a college intern. I know we’ve helped develop many teens, and I couldn’t be more proud of our staff for facilitating that.

*Seeing how we have become a “home” to so many volunteers. To hear how much LHF means to our volunteers is so rewarding.

Our employee staff:

*You are some of the most unique people I’ve ever met. You’re interesting, well read, funny, creative, intelligent, and passionate about your time here.

*The satisfaction I receive working with you to create successful experiences for our volunteers, which also helps LHF be successful.

• How beautiful our property is – sometimes when walking to Walnut Hill from my office to visit a volunteer or staff I walk through the large expanse of land by the Flynn House and enjoy the serenity, smell the flowers, and fill my lungs with the fresh air. I’ll often stop and just stand there for a minute or so as I appreciate that I work at such a beautiful place.
• Watching us grow over the years into a world-class museum.
• Knowing that our mission is true and so worthy.
• How we tell the story – I’ve always been a history “nut”. I was a history major at ISU a million years ago. It’s a dream come true for me to work here.

One time after having gotten a soda at “Rosie’s” and walking back towards the office, I heard the sound of the schoolhouse bell. Then I realized no, that wasn’t what it was. So I stopped and listened. It was the steady ring of the Blacksmith hammering something on the anvil. I am reminded how far that sound travels, and it also reinforced that we really do offer visitors the sights, sounds, and smells of history. I hope you’ll understand when I say it gave me goose bumps.

• Knowing we are a positive influence in our world.

I want to thank all the volunteers and staff over the years that have made my professional life here such a joy. I’ll be forever grateful.  A special thank you to Nancy Wente, my mentor and friend.

-- written by Jan, Manager of Volunteer Services