The Interpretation Intern will primarily work inside the historic Saxton House, the former home of Ida Saxton McKinley and President William McKinley. The home is climate controlled, providing a comfortable indoor work environment, although some duties and visitor programming will take place outdoors during the summer months.
Because of an ongoing Visitor Center renovation project during Summer 2026, many visitors will experience the historic Saxton House in a unique way, creating an exciting opportunity for the intern to interact directly with thousands of visitors while helping interpret the site’s history.
The intern will work closely with the Interpretation Division and become an active member of the park team, participating in daily operations, educational programming, and visitor services.
The Interpretation Intern will work with park staff to research, develop, and present interpretive programs that expand visitors’ understanding of the people who lived and worked within the Saxton House.
Building upon research completed by a previous HBCUI intern, the 2026 intern will create engaging interpretive programming focused on the domestic workers, medical staff, and other individuals who supported the Saxton and McKinley families throughout their lives. Through this work, the intern will help present a more complete understanding of the home’s history while connecting visitors to the experiences of the many individuals who contributed to daily life within the household.
Primary responsibilities include:
This internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute directly to the interpretation of one of America’s most significant presidential historic sites while helping visitors connect with stories that enrich their understanding of the past.
Throughout the internship, the participant will develop professional skills in historical research, public speaking, interpretation, visitor engagement, and educational programming.
The intern will gain experience researching historical sources, developing interpretive content, facilitating guided programs, and communicating complex historical topics to diverse audiences.
By the conclusion of the internship, the participant will have strengthened their confidence in program development, collaboration, audience engagement, and public history while gaining valuable experience working within the National Park Service.
First Ladies National Historic Site is committed to creating a welcoming, collaborative, and supportive workplace for interns and staff.
The intern will work closely with members of the Interpretation Division while receiving guidance from experienced National Park Service professionals. Weekly staff meetings encourage open communication across departments, and interns are provided dedicated workspace along with clearly defined responsibilities.
Because of the park’s small staff size, interns have the unique opportunity to work directly with employees at every level of park operations. In addition to participating in webinars, trainings, and professional development opportunities, interns gain firsthand exposure to how decisions are made and how every division contributes to the successful operation of a National Park Service site.
Preferred qualifications include:
Successful candidates should enjoy interacting with visitors and be eager to learn how interpretation connects people with historic places.
First Ladies National Historic Site consists of two properties in downtown Canton, Ohio – the home of First Lady Ida Saxton-McKinley and our Visitor Center. The First Ladies National Historic Site (NHS) in Canton, Ohio was established as a National Park Site in 2000 and is comprised of two buildings: The Saxton House and the Visitor Center. We want to make your visit memorable and enjoyable through the curation of our two buildings.
Stipend: $17.20/Hour
Duration: 11 Weeks (Full-Time)
Location: 205 Market Avenue South, Canton, Ohio 44702
First Ladies National Historic Site is located in downtown Canton, Ohio, a vibrant community known for its rich history, arts district, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The park is conveniently located near restaurants, grocery stores, coffee shops, shopping, and public transportation, making it easy for interns to explore the surrounding community.
Canton experiences warm summers with temperatures generally ranging from the 70s to the upper 90s. While situated in an urban setting, the area also offers abundant outdoor recreation through Stark Parks, featuring more than 120 miles of hiking and biking trails, lakes, and natural areas. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is located less than an hour away, providing additional opportunities to experience one of Ohio’s premier national parks during the internship.
Interns will enjoy the unique opportunity to live and work in a community closely connected to the history of President William McKinley, First Lady Ida McKinley, and the broader story of America’s First Ladies.
No, park housing is not available.
Yes, a personal vehicle is required, and you must have a valid driver’s license.
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