William Randolph Hearst Foundation Fellowship 2013
June 3-August 2, 2013
Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden
421 East 61st Street · New York, NY 10065
Phone (212) 838-6878 · Fax (212) 838-7390
www.mvhm.org
I. Fellowship Overview
The Mount Vernon Hotel Museum and Garden (MVHM) offers two summer Fellowships
for undergraduate or graduate students interested in U.S. history, museum studies,
museum education, material culture or other related fields. Fellows participate directly in the daily operations of a historic site in many departments. Students engage in original historical research related to the Museum’s interpretation and programs. Now in its
twenty-ninth year, the William Randolph Hearst Foundation funds the Fellowship
Program. The appointment is full-time for nine weeks during June and July and carries a
$2,750 stipend. The hours are 9AM-5PM Monday-Friday, with occasional evenings
required for special events. Throughout the summer, Hearst Fellows:
- complete an original research project on an aspect of NYC life between 1826 and 1833
- conduct tours of the Museum’s eight period rooms and garden
- participate in all aspects of the Museum’s summer activity program for children
- assist with the Museum’s summer public programs contribute to daily operations
II. Mission and History of the Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden
One of New York City’s oldest structures, the Museum building dates from 1799, when it
was constructed as a carriage house on Mount Vernon, a large country estate situated
along the East River. In 1826, the building was converted into the Mount Vernon Hotel,
a popular country resort that catered to middle-class New Yorkers seeking to escape the
city. The MVHM interprets travel, leisure, work and play in New York City and
Jacksonian America, including labor history, race relations, immigration, and gender
roles. The Museum is owned and operated by the Colonial Dames of America, a
women’s genealogical organization dedicated to historic preservation.
The Museum’s audience reflects New York City’s rich diversity. Over 30 programs each
year include Lunchtime Lectures, Summer Garden Concerts, lectures by historians and
collectors, exhibits, childrens’ storytime and more. Blending public history with hands-on
interpretation for children and adults, we want to share why history matters in engaging
fun ways.
III. Application Procedures
Applicants are strongly encouraged to visit the Museum’s website before applying for a
Fellowship. All applicants must be enrolled in a college undergraduate or graduate
program for both Spring and Fall of 2013.
Fellowship applications may be downloaded from the website or obtained via e-mail
from education@mvhm.org. To apply for the Fellowship, students must submit the
completed application form, a short essay explaining their interest in the Fellowship, a
resume, writing sample and two letters of recommendation.
Application materials may be emailed. All materials, including letters of
recommendation, must be sent by midnight on Friday, March 8, 2013.
