Volunteer with us
Here at Little Woodham we are always on the lookout for people with a passion for history to join us. We are a volunteer-run charity that values family and friendship, and believe in building a sense of community.
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Members are encouraged to research their chosen roles and the social history of the time, and you will be supported as you settle in. Costumes are available to be loaned to get you started.
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You don't need to dress up if that's not your thing. We also need help behind the scenes. The village buildings and grounds need a lot of maintenance, or you could help out in the shop.
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Join us and become a part of our family!
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If you would like to find out a little more, please email our membership secretary Lewis on membership@littlewoodham.org.uk
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​Volunteer of the month
David
​Tell me what you do in the village?
I'm a village Blacksmith
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What has been your favourite moment so far?
My favourite part has been to delve into the architectural and historical evidence of blacksmithing in the later 16th and early 17th centuries that lead to reconstructing the historically accurate forge which we believe to be the only fully working replica 17th century forge in the UK. Another favourite part was sharing this love of the forge by running Forge Experience days. People came from as far as North Wales, Essex and Cornwall, many with no blacksmithing experience but ending the day with five beautiful pieces of ironwork.
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What is your favourite part of the day?
A summer morning after everyone has set up and before the visitors arrive. There'll be a couple of people having a chat, another person might be wandering up to me wanting something made or fixed and I'll look out from the forge and capture a tiny glimpse of what it would have been like to be in a village in the 17th century.
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What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering at Little Woodham?
I was initially a bit self conscious about dressing up, but that soon went and after about an hour or two it felt completely normal. The village is like a big friendly family. As well as open days we have sleepovers where we eat and drink in the alehouse and spend the night in the houses. It's great fun. I would say try it; you have nothing to lose and so much to gain!
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Finally, if you could have lunch with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
Geoffrey de Havilland, the designer of some of the most famous and beautiful aircraft ever made.
Why volunteer?
Volunteering and being part of a team is an amazing experience that brings countless benefits! You get to contribute to a cause you're passionate about and see the behind-the-scenes work that makes it all happen. Plus, being part of a team helps you develop new skills, build relationships, and feel a sense of accomplishment.
What our members say
"I like history and this gives me a chance to explore a new period for me... and actually live it!"
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"I feel we are so privileged to be part of this wonderful experience in such a tranquil setting. The villagers are like a big family."
"I enjoy stepping back in time."
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"Learning, living and sharing. It's different every day, and the disgusted looks on children's faces can be hilarious!"
"A bit of role play can be quite a lot of fun! Also it's a great way of learning history."