George C. Marshall’s Dodona Manor in Leesburg will hold an information session for prospective docents on Saturday, Feb. 22, at 1 p.m. at the George C. Marshall International Center at 312 E. Market St., Suite C, Leesburg, VA.
“Being a docent at Dodona Manor offers history buffs and others an opportunity to learn more about one of the most important people of the 20th century and to share Marshall’s story with others,” said Tom Bowers, GCMIC Docent Director. “A great spirit of camaraderie among docents enhances that experience and creates a sense of family,” Bowers added, “and being a Dodona Manor volunteer is an excellent way to meet others in the community, expand one’s knowledge and experience behind-the-scenes museum operations.”
George C. Marshall was one of the most important world leaders of the 20th century. He was a five-star general who was U.S. Army Chief of Staff during World War II, special envoy to China, Secretary of State, president of the American Red Cross, and Secretary of Defense. He won the 1953 Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts on behalf of the European Recovery Program, which became known as the Marshall Plan.
He and his wife Katherine purchased Dodona Manor in 1941 and lived there until his death in 1959. In 2005, the restored home opened to the public as a historic house museum. Docents offer public tours on weekends from March through December and special tours at other times.
The information session will explain duties of docents and other volunteers and will include a tour of Dodona Manor. More information about Marshall and Dodona Manor can be found at www.georgecmarshall.org.
Persons who wish to attend the free program are asked to call the GCMIC office, 703-777-1301, to reserve a space. In case of inclement weather, the program will be Saturday, Feb. 29th.
