Ohio’s statewide observance of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War begins in 2011, and historical organizations across the state are looking for recruits to volunteer their time and talent at any of the numerous events being planned. To help volunteers match their interests with a particular event or organization, a Volunteer for History day takes place 1-3 p.m. Sunday, March 6 at the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center in Fremont.

Volunteer for History brings together historical sites, museums, libraries, reenactment groups, and other organizations planning Civil War 150th observances. Each organization will set up a booth explaining its event and providing information on volunteer opportunities. Attendees can chat with the people directly involved in a particular event or organization.

“Think of it like a career fair but for volunteers,” said Matthew Strobel of the Ohio History Service Corps, organizer of Volunteer for History.

The Ohio Historical Society, with funding from the Ohio Community Service Council, created the Ohio History Service Corps to educate Ohioans on why history is relevant and how it can be used as an effective economic development tool. A main component of the Ohio History Service Corps is to assist in Civil War-related education and public programming.

Strobel is providing assistance to events sponsored by historical organizations in Ashland, Richland, Morrow, Marion, Sandusky, Seneca, Ottawa, Wyandot, Crawford, Erie, and Huron counties. During his year-long service with Ohio History Service Corps, he is working out of the Hayes Presidential Center. He can be reached there by calling 419-332-2081 or via email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

The Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center is located at the corner of Hayes and Buckland avenues, Fremont, Ohio. The facility is affiliated with the Ohio Historical Society. Check the Hayes Presidential Center website for a complete list of year-round special events.

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