2026 Buchanan Burnham Summer Scholar in Public History Program

Join a team of students, scholars, and museum professionals studying and promoting the diverse and dynamic history of Newport, RI. Fellows have access to the Newport Historical Society’s (NHS) internationally important manuscript and artifact collections; engage with the public through docent work and program participation; and put theory into practice by participating in the daily operations of NHS. Training is provided.

All 2026 Fellows will work on the planning and installation of an American Revolution related temporary exhibition as well as on one of the following: research on Newport’s 19th century artists, intellects and reformers; research and processing of the Whiskey Rebellion and RI Militia manuscript collections; research and processing of the Thomas Wentworth Higginson manuscript collection; research and processing of a collection of 18th century Vernon family manuscripts.

Eligibility: Rising undergraduate seniors, graduate students, or recent graduates [last 12 months] who are interested in pursuing a career in, or with a background in, museum collections, archives, American History. Students preparing to apply to a graduate program are also eligible.

NHS has the right of first refusal on any publication resulting from research produced during the fellowship. The facilities of the NHS are not universally handicapped accessible; applicants with accessibility questions should contact the NHS for more information.

Schedule: May 26 – August 7.  The weekly schedule will be finalized after a candidate is selected; expect to work approximately 30 hrs./week. 

Benefits: $6000 stipend, paid in equal installments every other week, applicable federal and state taxes will be withheld. 

Housing: May be available to successful applicants. Details available upon request.

To Apply: By March 6, send a resume, copies of transcript(s) (including both undergraduate & graduate transcripts), two letters of recommendation, and a letter stating your reasons for applying, your career goals, and your area of interest to ipeters@NewportHistory.org

Fellowship Selection Process: Admission to the fellowship program is competitive; candidates are selected by a committee of local scholars and NHS staff.  Enthusiasm for history, historic artifacts, and public history is required. Experience studying American history, engaging with the public or leading tours, and conducting historical research is preferred.  The NHS will invite leading candidates for Zoom interviews in mid-March; the NHS will notify successful candidates by late March - April.