AUGUSTA — Old Fort Western, the 1754 National Historic Landmark fort, store and house museum on the Kennebec River in downtown, welcomes children of all ages interested in local history and stewardship to register for one of the Summer Youth Programs: Apprenticeship Program (for ages 8-12) or the Jr. Interpreter Program (for ages 13 and older). These one-week sessions start Monday, June 29, and continue through Aug. 28.

Children in the Apprenticeship Program can experience what life was like in the 18th century by exploring daily life at home, the varied world of work (blacksmithing, midwifery and storekeeping), the life of a French and Indian War Soldier and what children and adults did for entertainment. Graduates are eligible to participate in the Jr. Interpreter Program.

Jr. Interpreters can assist with the Apprenticeship Program, learn about collections management and how to interpret the history of the Fort, develop necessary skills to demonstrate 18th century hands-on activities to the public, and how to conduct research through reading and deciphering original documents.

Program participants can learn what is involved in taking care of this historic site to ensure continued enjoyment of the fort for future generations. Junior Interpreter graduates are eligible for volunteering at open visitations and special events held at the Fort.

To register, visit www.oldfortwestern.org or stop by the Fort ‘s Administrative Office in Augusta City Center. Space is limited. Payment must be received in full by 4 p.m. Friday the week prior to the registered program session. A maximum of 12 participants may register for any given week. Discounts are available for Augusta residents and siblings attending the same week program. For more information, call 626-2385 or email oldfort@oldfortwestern.org.

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