My architectural archaeology internship at Cliveden of the National Trust, sponsored by the Jenrette Foundation as part of their “Learning by Doing” Trade internship, was one of the most gratifying experiences of my preservation career and helped me elucidate my professional goals. Through the educational experiences in architectural archaeology, the mentorship and support offered by my colleagues and supervisors, and the unique and complex history of Cliveden itself, I gained a great deal of knowledge about the field and had an excellent summer experience.
The goal of my internship was to contribute to the “Transcending Thresholds,” project, an ongoing mission to research and interpret the service spaces in Cliveden and better understand the lives and careers of both enslaved and free service workers on the estate. My part of the project involved documenting and research the kitchen dependency and pantry and using architectural archaeology to perform selective demolition on the walls. After creating sketches of the rooms and measuring and documenting important details, I created portals in select places to learn more about the construction of these spaces and uncover possible hidden histories. For this part of my internship, I learned how to use hand tools and power tools, and how to determine which tools to use for which materials. I found that I gained a better understanding of historic building materials and construction methods which will help me as I continue my studies.
Alongside these new skills, I was fortunate that I was able to expand on some of the skills I learned in my Documentation, Research, and Recording classes. I utilized my new skills in architectural sketching, both by hand and through software such as AutoCAD, my architectural photography and photo-editing skills, and my research skills. My Domestic Interiors class was also very helpful, as it helped me figure out how to create an evidence-based floor plan and understand probate documents, both of which were necessary for my internship. I found that I was really able to hone these skills and develop them in a professional context.
The staff at Cliveden were not only welcoming, amiable, and generous with their time; they were always more than happy to help with professional development. Through our field trips, we had the chance to meet other site managers and preservation professionals, and I even had the opportunity to participate in some Historic Germantown meetings and events. My supervisor Libbie Hawes and our CEO Nancy Van Dolsen were especially eager to introduce us to fellow preservationists. We also had the chance to work with architectural historian Willie Graham, who taught me a great deal about historic construction methods, American country estates, and effective methods of architectural archaeology.
I also learned that being a site manager usually means wearing many hats. Sometimes it involves the skills we’ve learned in the classroom, and sometimes it means balancing the budget for a new HVAC system, climbing up ladders to clear out cobwebs, and even finding homes for feral cats that live on the property. Overall, I had an incredible experience, and I am so grateful for the support of both Cliveden of the National Trust and the Jenrette Foundation. This internship has truly shaped my career path, helped me develop new skills, and renewed my sense of purpose in this field.
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