Proposing a Living History Program

Volunteers may submit a program proposal/outline describing how you or your group will provide programming at Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site. Consider how the program will enhance visitor’s understanding and appreciation of this site as a nationally significant landmark.

Please understand that the park interpretive staff is responsible for developing special events based upon interpretive themes and may incorporate living history into some of these programs and events. Your program proposal assists us in our planning. However, it does not necessarily mean that you will be asked to develop that specific program or guarantee participation in a program or an event.

While there is not required format or framework for volunteers to propose programs, the following items must be identified and addressed in any proposal:

1. Program title

2. Program topic

3. Program length

4. Program Type: (presentation, demonstration, other, etc.)

5. Program theme: (please refer to the park’s interpretive themes).

6. Time period portrayed in the program. (be specific)

7. Props and accoutrements to be used

8. Crowd Management in accordance with the Fort Occupancy Management SOP

9. Safety concerns/issues

10. Location of program

11. Program outline

One model to consider for a formal living history program would be a 30-minute formal program in the following broad format:

• A third-person introduction, up to 7 minutes. This sets the stage for what’s next.
• A living history scene or monologue, up to 20 minutes.
• A third-person conclusion, wrapping up key ideas and inviting visitor feedback and questions.