Maine’s First Ship is getting ready for its full-time season and welcomes new volunteers. MFS hosts an Open House for anyone interested in learning more about MFA and volunteer opportunities on Saturday, May 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Come see the Bath Freight Shed, which houses MFS’s Visitor Center and is also the site of its shipbuilding project, Virginia.

While docents and shipwrights are critical to the success of MFS, many other volunteer opportunities are just as important to an all-volunteer organization. MFS welcomes all talents, including those interested in volunteer recruitment and management, website oversight, merchandise organizing, and publicity. Light refreshments will be served at the Open House and visitors will get a chance to see the Visitor Center, see the shipbuilding progress, and ask questions about Maine’s First Ship.

Docent training for those interested in talking to visitors about Virginia and Maine’s First Ship will begin at 1 p.m. “Don’t worry if you feel you don’t know enough about the history and archeology, or the ship Virginia,” says Lori Benson of MFS. “There are plenty of materials on hand to answer any question.”

Visitors will see additions to the exhibit and an update on progress of the ship Virginia. All are welcome. Volunteer MFS docent Allison Hepler encourages people: “Spend part of your summer amidst the smell of freshly fashioned planks and the aura of the past all around you.”

For more information, contact Maine’s First Ship, mfs1@myfairpoint.net, or stop by the ship on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 am – 3 pm, Bath Freight Shed, 27 Commercial Street, Bath.