This week, the United States will celebrate its 250th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s history. In Washington D.C., various events and exhibits are being held to commemorate this occasion. Among these, a special exhibit at the Smithsonian Castle is displaying artifacts like the portable desk where Thomas Jefferson drafted the Declaration of Independence. However, history is more than just objects; it’s the stories of people who shaped the nation’s past.

Jennifer Timmick, a volunteer tour guide at the National Museum of American History, shares her passion for storytelling and her role in helping visitors appreciate the significance of these artifacts. With over 13 years of experience as a volunteer, Timmick has developed a deep understanding of the museum’s collections and has honed her skills in conveying the stories behind them.

During a tour, Timmick spoke about Julia Child, who revolutionized the way Americans cook, and the ruby slippers from ‘The Wizard of Oz.’ She also discussed the Greensboro lunch counter, a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement, and the portable desk where Thomas Jefferson drafted the Declaration of Independence. These stories not only highlight the achievements of ordinary people but also provide a glimpse into the nation’s complex history.

A Passion for Storytelling

For Timmick, the role of a tour guide is not just about conveying information but also about creating a connection between the visitors and the artifacts. She believes that by sharing the stories behind these objects, she can help visitors appreciate the significance of American history. ‘Our history is just the stories of things that people say and things that people do, and they fascinate me,’ she says.

Timmick’s approach to storytelling is not limited to the artifacts on display. She also highlights the personal stories of the people who created them, making the experience more relatable and engaging for the visitors. By doing so, she creates a sense of community among the visitors, who are no longer just strangers but people who have come together to appreciate the nation’s history.

As Timmick puts it, ‘If we can just keep talking to each other, then we’ll be OK.’ Her passion for storytelling and her dedication to sharing the stories of American history make her an exceptional tour guide. By highlighting the significance of these artifacts and the people behind them, Timmick helps visitors appreciate the nation’s complex history and its impact on the present.

A Legacy of Volunteerism

The National Museum of American History has a long history of volunteerism, with thousands of individuals contributing their time and expertise to help preserve and share the nation’s history. Jennifer Timmick is one of these dedicated volunteers, who have made a significant impact on the museum’s operations and visitor experience.

As a volunteer, Timmick has not only shared her passion for storytelling but also helped to create a sense of community among the visitors. Her dedication to her role and her commitment to sharing the stories of American history have made her an invaluable asset to the museum. By highlighting the significance of these artifacts and the people behind them, Timmick helps visitors appreciate the nation’s complex history and its impact on the present.

As the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, the National Museum of American History is a testament to the power of volunteerism and the impact that individuals can have on preserving and sharing the nation’s history. Jennifer Timmick’s passion for storytelling and her dedication to sharing the stories of American history make her an exceptional tour guide and a shining example of the legacy of volunteerism at the National Museum of American History.