National Park Service LogoU.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceNational Park Service
National Park Service:  U.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park Service Arrowhead
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical ParkPhoto of interpetive rangers on top of canal boat.
view map
text size:largestlargernormal
printer friendly
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Canal Boat Volunteers
Photo of Georgetown canal boat being pulled by a team of mules.

NPS Photo

Any canal boat volunteer will tell you that nothing is more fun than working a canal boat.

The park's primary interpretive program is the operation of two full-sized canal boats for the public. One is located in Georgetown and the other is at Great Falls. The boats are a fun and educational way for the park visitors to learn about the resources of the canal. Volunteers are trained by park staff in the various jobs needed to run the boat. They are also provided with period clothing that is worn while working on the boats. Volunteers are needed for any combination of the following: Working with and caring for the park's mules, general preperation of the boats, steering the boats, working the lift locks, giving programs, playing music, and routine maintenance.

We are currently seeking new volunteers for the Charles F. Mercer at Great Falls and The Georgetown in Georgetown for the 2008 operating season.

 

 

For more information, please view our volunteer boat crew flyer.

To apply as a volunteer on the canal boats, please go to current volunteer opportunities and complete the volunteer form. Thank you for your interest in volunteering.

Photo Potowmack Company canal lock at Great Falls Virginia.  

Did You Know?
George Washington's dream of connecting the eastern states with the western frontier led to the creation of the Patowmack Company. Locks were built around unnavigable parts of the Potomac River for improved commerce. The C&O Canal inherited the right of way after the Patowmack Company's demise.

Last Updated: December 18, 2007 at 15:09 EST