Archivist & Historian

The Western Stock Show Association•Denver, CO

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The National Western Stock Show Archivist & Historian serves as the steward of the organization's historical collections, records, memorabilia, photographs, documents, and artifacts. This position is responsible for preserving, organizing, interpreting, and promoting the rich history of the National Western Stock Show and the Western Stock Show Association. The Archivist & Historian collaborates closely with committee members, volunteers, donors, researchers, and the public to ensure the organization's legacy is accurately documented and shared through exhibits, presentations, and educational outreach.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in History, Museum Studies, Library Science, Archival Studies, Public History, or a related field.
Minimum of three years of experience in archives, museums, historical societies, cultural institutions, or related environments.
Knowledge of archival principles, collection management, preservation practices, and historical research methodologies.
Strong written, verbal, and public speaking skills.
Excellent organizational and recordkeeping abilities.
Ability to work effectively with volunteers, committees, donors, and the public.
Proficiency with database management and Microsoft Office applications.
Ability to lift 25 pounds and access/navigate the National Western Complex in its entirety, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in History, Museum Studies, Archival Studies, or a related discipline.
Experience curating exhibits and educational programs.
Experience with digitization projects and digital asset management systems.
Knowledge of Western heritage, agriculture, livestock industries, rodeo history, or Colorado history.
Experience conducting oral history interviews.

Responsibilities

Acquire, catalog, organize, and preserve historical records, photographs, artifacts, memorabilia, publications, and digital collections related to the National Western Stock Show, the Western Stock Show Association, and the Denver Stockyards.
Maintain accurate inventories and archival databases.
Develop and implement archival standards, conservation practices, and collection policies.
Assess, document, and recommend acquisitions, donations, and loans of historical materials.
Coordinate storage, preservation, and digitization efforts to protect historical assets.
Conduct research related to the history of the Western Stock Show Association, the National Western Stock Show and the related Denver stockyards, their events, participants, traditions, and impact.
Respond to historical inquiries from staff, committee members, media, researchers, and the public.
Develop written historical content for publications, exhibits, websites, newsletters, and special projects.
Maintain and expand institutional knowledge and historical records.
Prepare and deliver engaging presentations to community groups, organizations, schools, committees, and visitors on the history and legacy of the National Western Stock Show and the evolution of stock exhibitions and stockyards in Colorado and the surrounding region.
Serve as a knowledgeable ambassador for the organization's history and heritage.
Assist with historical tours, exhibits, celebrations, anniversaries, and commemorative events.
Support educational programming and community engagement initiatives.
Work closely with National Western Stock Show committees to identify, preserve, and document historical information.
Attend committee meetings as needed to provide historical context and expertise.
Collaborate with volunteers and historical contributors on collection projects and oral histories.
Assist in identifying significant milestones and historical achievements for recognition and preservation.
Field phone calls, emails, and walk-in inquiries regarding Stock Show, stockyards, and related history, collections, genealogy, research requests, and organizational heritage.
Provide courteous, professional, and accurate information to stakeholders and the public.
Facilitate access to archival materials while ensuring proper handling and preservation.
Curate historical exhibits and displays that highlight the National Western Stock Show’s traditions, accomplishments, growth, and impact, including themes related to Colorado’s and Western agricultural history and heritage.
Develop interpretive materials, exhibit narratives, signage, and artifact descriptions.
Coordinate special historical projects, anniversary publications, oral history initiatives, and digital storytelling efforts.