Last year over 5,800 tourists visited Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site (NHS) near Eads, Colorado. Ranger staff responded by presenting over 450 formal interpretive and education programs. This year, the park is recruiting for volunteers to assist staff with visitor services such as welcoming and orienting the public and presenting short interpretive programs.

Sand Creek Massacre NHS commemorates the 1864 unprovoked attack by Colorado (U.S.) volunteer cavalry on a group of peaceful Cheyenne and Arapaho Indians camped on Sand Creek. The attack resulted in the deaths of approximately 230 Cheyenne and Arapaho - mostly women, children and elderly. The attacked seized national attention in the winter of 1864-65 and generated much controversy.

Since opening to the public, visitation to the park has been climbing steadily. During the busy summer months, visitation can outpace ranger staff, whose job it is to welcome and orient visitors to the park; and educate them about its tragic story. Volunteers can assist staff with these tasks. The park is seeking men and women 18 years and older, interested in history and public speaking. No prior experience is required. Park staff will work with each individual; provide training, and assist them in beginning their volunteer experience with the National Park Service.

Volunteers will be trained to provide a variety of services, such as welcoming and orienting visitors to the park, providing area information, answering questions about the historic site, running a cash register, and, for those interested, planning and presenting a short talk on the Sand Creek Massacre.  Due to the remote location of the park, volunteers must provide their own transportation. For more information, contact Shawn Gillette, Chief of Interpretation, Sand Creek Massacre NHS, (719) 469-1452.