Docents Sought At Historic Camron-Stanford House

OAKLAND, CA — An Oakland historic landmark, the Camron-Stanford House on Lake Merritt, will host volunteer-training classes this spring for those interested in learning about local history and joining the docent team that leads tours of the mansion.

The Camron-Stanford House, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, stands as an architectural masterpiece as a restored, 1876 Italianate Victorian in Lakeside Park.

Classes will be held Saturdays, March 14 to May 2 (except April 11) from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the estate, with one class scheduled as an optional field trip to San Francisco.

Participants will learn about Oakland's past, polish their public-speaking skills and participate in the creation of new exhibits while becoming "history detectives" in the process, according to Alisa Thorp, Camron-Stanford House development and exhibit coordinator.

"No previous guide experience is necessary, but curiosity and desire to share what you’ve learned are essential!" Thorp said.

As portions of The House are not fully disabled-accessible, prospective guides must be able to climb stairs and stand for up to an hour while giving tours.

Class tuition is $50 per person, which includes museum membership and course materials, and parking is available on-site.

Those interested in learning more about the 2020 docent program or to register can visit the estate's web site here or can call 510-874-7802 for more information.

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