Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance

The Germantown Historical Society is seeking a part-time (15-20 hrs a week) intern to work on a project cataloging its hat collection. The goal of this project is to continue work started by GHS volunteers to inventory, catalog, and re-pack the hats in the historic clothing collection. This project provides the opportunity for a student to get hands-on experience in museum work, from documenting and cataloguing objects to assisting in planning a small exhibition.

This position is generously supported by the Colonial Dames of America Chapter II. The intern will work under the supervision of the Curator of Collections. There is flexibility for some remote work for parts of the project. This position has a stipend of $7,500.

Core Responsibilities:

Digitize previous volunteer cataloging
Produce an inventory of the hat collection
Individually catalog, photograph and repack objects
Update records in collections catalog with accurate information and current images
Assist Curator in planning a small, short-term exhibition of hats from the collection
Give a talk/project report to members of the CDA Chapter II upon completion of the project.
Attend bi-weekly staff meetings in person or via Microsoft Teams

Ideal Candidate:

Upper-level undergraduate or graduate student in museum studies, history, public history, art history, material culture or a related field
Some experience with museum collections work required. i.e. a previous internship or volunteer work
Interest in and prior experience working with textiles and historic clothing ideal but not required
Familiarity with best practices for handling and storing museum collections
Attention to detail
Ability to work independently
Familiarity with CatalogIt a plus
Ability to work in-person at the Germantown Historical Society at least once a week is required
Ability to navigate stairs and small spaces, work in a variety of spaces with varying degrees of climate control

CDA Chapter II Hat Cataloging Project Intern