Nation Builder – Gowan Pamphlet

Open To External And Internal Candidates•Williamsburg, VA

About The Position

Nation Builders research and portray historical individuals and narratives from the 18th-century Atlantic World through first- and third-person interpretation. Using extensive primary and secondary source research, sophisticated presentation techniques, and interpretive themes, Nation Builders develop, produce, and perform meaningful programming that sparks insight and understanding of Williamsburg’s—and America’s—founding-era history for diverse audiences. Gowan Pamphlet, a s an enslaved tavern worker, would have performed any necessary duties, from preparing and serving meals to guests to cleaning the rooms or tending the stables. During court days in the capital city, he would also have had the opportunity to observe fascinating conversations about the course of the Revolution and the principles at stake. But Pamphlet's Baptist faith was his passion. When, with his owner's permission, Pamphlet was ordained in 1781, he became one of the only ordained Black preachers of any denomination in the country. Inspired by the Great Awakening, Pamphlet preached a message of equality before God. He followed his calling to build Williamsburg's First Baptist Church, which continues to this day. But the risks were heavy. The law prohibited large gatherings of African Americans out of fear of slave uprisings. Moreover, Baptist preachers faced harassment as dissenters from the officially recognized Church of England, even after Virginia's Statute for Religious Freedom ended state sponsorship of the church in 1786.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
3-5 years of prior relevant experience including writing, storytelling, interpretation, teaching, performance, or public-facing presentation.

Nice To Haves

Experience developing historical, interpretive, or theatrical programming

Responsibilities

Research and analyze primary and secondary sources to gain an extensive and in-depth understanding of assigned historical narratives, their broader historical context, and the themes and universal experiences that shaped the 18th-century Atlantic World.
Portray assigned historical figures and narratives, as well as other figures when needed, through scripted scenes, outlined presentations, and impromptu interactions.
Engage with guests with varying levels of prior knowledge in a variety of settings, both within and outside Colonial Williamsburg’s historic area.
Develop, produce, and perform meaningful, thought-provoking, and engaging programming grounded in primary sources, contemporary scholarship, and general historiography, and tied to topics relevant to modern audiences.
Collaborate with historians and cross-functional partners, including marketing, development, digital, and special events staff, to advance the Foundation’s mission through onsite, online, and special programming.
Provide elevated donor engagement and represent the Foundation professionally, including developing and delivering programming for specific audiences, both in character and out of character.
Contribute as an active member of the department and work collaboratively across the Foundation to create dynamic, educational guest experiences and a positive, inclusive work environment.
Perform with professionalism, flexibility, and resilience in a changing work environment, and perform other related duties as required.
For this assignment, primary research and portrayal will focus on Gowan Pamphlet, his lived experiences, and the social and cultural forces that shaped his life and legacy.
This job description reflects the general responsibilities of the position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Duties and responsibilities may evolve over time based on operational needs.