What is the Jason Russell House?
The Jason Russell House, located at 7 Jason Street, is a historic home that’s a national treasure right in Arlington Center. Built in the 1740’s and remarkably well-preserved, it figured prominently in the events of the first day of the American Revolution on April 19th, 1775.
Did you know British troops marched back through Arlington after the Battles of Lexington and Concord? They did, and the Jason Russell House was the site of one of their fiercest encounters with Colonial militiamen during the retreat.
Read more about the fascinating history of this house…
What does a tour guide do?
A guide leads visitors on tours through the Jason Russell House, sharing the history of the house and of the Russell family who lived in it for almost a hundred and fifty years.
Tours usually last 30 minutes and tour group size is limited to 12.
What’s the volunteer time commitment?
The Jason Russell House is open weekends from late May through October. Most people volunteer one day per month during this time, although there are often opportunities for more days if you’d like.
Volunteers arrive a little before 1 PM and stay until the house closes at 4 PM.
I may be a little rusty on my American history…
No problem! We’ll provide an extensive history of the house along with a Tour Guide Manual that includes suggestions on what to discuss in each room during your tour. Much of the fun of being a guide is learning more yourself about Arlington’s significant role in the Revolution.
I’ve never been a guide before…
Also no problem! We’ll help you get ready through a comprehensive training session, printed materials, and mentoring by experienced guides.
And for your first volunteer session, you’ll be paired with an experienced guide. You’ll have a chance to shadow them “in action” and ask about their approach and best practices.
Will I be on my own?
No! There will always be another guide there to help you.
You will give tours on your own, but can alternate these with the other guide.
Do a lot of people visit? How many tours will I have to give?
The number of visitors varies but we average 2-3 tours per day. Again, there will always be two guides so you won’t have to give all the tours yourself.
Tour times are not scheduled: we offer tours as people show up. Some of the most engaging tours are with smaller groups!
Is the tour strenuous?
The tour does not require extensive walking but is on two floors. There is a steep staircase with a handrail. The second floor is not wheelchair accessible.
I’m interested! What are my next steps?
E-mail contact@arlingtonhistorical.org or call 781-648-4300.
One of our guides talks about why she enjoys
showing visitors around the house…