The Dave and Louisa Miller family came to Ripshin Mountain in 1870, having leased the land from General John T. Wilder. Over the following 90+ years, 3 generations of Millers lived a subsistence farming lifestyle characteristic of those who populated the lands that now comprise Roan Mountain State Park. Throughout the warmer months, park interpreters offer tours of the Miller Farmstead to share the story of Roan Mountain's pre-park history.
We are seeking volunteer tour guides who are interested in telling the story of the Miller Farmstead to park visitors. Interested volunteers must be able to:
- Learn and deliver a scripted tour lasting approximately 45 minutes (with training and support)
- Stand, walk on uneven ground, navigate uneven steps during the tour.
- Welcome and manage groups of up to 10 guests as they visit the house.
- Follow rules & regulations
- Convey customer service details to park guests.
- Be comfortable in a farm setting, which includes livestock.
- Be comfortable in inclement, muddy weather.
Tour volunteers have the option of dressing in period clothing, subject to site manager's approval.
Tours are offered Tuesday – Sunday from Memorial Day to Labor Day & on weekends in October. Tours are scheduled each day at 11AM, 1PM, and 2PM. Volunteer schedules can be flexible, but must accommodate the scheduled tour times. If you have an interest in helping us fulfill our park's historical mission by hosting tours at the Miller Farmstead, we welcome your assistance!
Please leave a note in your initial sign up with your availability to host tours this summer and fall. Sign-ups may be asked to provide previous tour guiding or interpretive experience. If selected, volunteers will be asked to attend select Miller Farmstead Volunteer Days to help prepare the house for the season, receive training and a copy of the tour outline, and practice giving the tour with Ranger Price.
