Ford Foundation Curatorial Internship - Summer 2005
George Washington's Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon, VA

Mount Vernon, the home of George and Martha Washington, originally
extended over eight thousand acres and was divided into five farms. The
property remained in the Washington family until 1858, when it was
purchased by the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association, a non-profit
organization founded by Ann Pamela Cunningham in 1853 to "perpetuate the
sacred memory of 'the Father of his Country'" and to "preserve the
relics at Mount Vernon." The current historic site encompasses George
Washington's original Mansion House Farm and consists of 500 acres. 

Today, Mount Vernon welcomes more than 1 million visitors a year, and
the Collections Department is responsible for ensuring the historical
accuracy and preservation of the curatorial collection for these
visitors. The curatorial collection is built around the documented
household and personal possessions of George and Martha Washington.
Through the generosity of the Ford Foundation, Mount Vernon offers one
summer internship to an individual interested in assisting with planning
and preparations for an exhibition featuring the collection of Mount
Vernon at the prestigious Winter Antiques Show in New York City (January
2006).

Under the supervision of the Curator and Assistant Curator, the Ford
Foundation Intern will oversee the creation and maintenance of exhibit
object files, draft exhibit label copy, assist with a publication to be
produced in conjunction with the exhibit, and work with other members of
the Mount Vernon curatorial, library, collections management and
conservation staff to make the necessary preparations for the show.

Compensation and Hours:
The Ford Foundation Intern will be provided with round trip travel to
and from Washington, DC and a weekly stipend for the 10 week internship
period. The intern will be expected to work Monday-Friday from 9am-5pm,
with all work to be completed in June/July/August.  Housing on the
estate is available with the exception of the following dates:  June 23
- July 4 and July 14 - July 26.  

Qualifications:
The successful Ford Foundation Curatorial Intern candidate will possess
an interest in 18th century American history, particularly as it relates
to the decorative arts and material culture, excellent writing and
organizational skills, as well as experience in historic research and
exhibit planning.  A Masters degree or current graduate-level study in
Museum Studies, American History, American Studies, Art History, or a
related field is required.

How to Apply:
By April 22, 2005 please send letter of interest, resume, and the
contact information for three references to: 

	Christine Messing
	Assistant Curator
	George Washington's Mount Vernon
	P.O. Box 110
	Mount Vernon, VA 22121
	Fax: 703.799.8698
	[log in to unmask]
	No phone calls please
  
Applicants will be notified of the success of application by the week of
May 2, 2005.

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