From its founding to the present day, heroic and giving individuals have always been—and will continue to be—the driving force behind the Encinitas Historical Society’s educational and community success. Whether you’re new to volunteering or a seasoned veteran, the Society offers a unique and enriching participation experience as a volunteer, docent, or member of the leadership team.

The City of Encinitas has earned numerous national and international awards as a must-see destination in Southern California, with the 1883 Schoolhouse standing as one of its iconic attractions. Team members consider our association with the Encinitas Historical Society an honor, and we look forward to sharing the honor with new teammates.

Everyone has special gifts, and there’s plenty of opportunity to share them in defining and carrying out our evolving mission. If being a docent appeals to you, imagine yourself in this seaside setting as a welcoming ambassador, sharing local history with visitors ranging from children to researchers, from places near and halfway around the world. Docents work in pairs on Saturdays, preparing the Schoolhouse for a 10:00 AM opening, hosting visitors, and locking up after the 2:00 PM close. Beginners are teamed with experienced docents to learn the ropes.

Or, perhaps you’d enjoy helping behind the scenes: maintenance, cleaning, landscaping, gardening, merchandising, or organizing events. Our Society thrives because of action-oriented individuals like you.

If you are an experienced leader, you can bring new vision and tools to our organization by joining the leadership team. If you’re looking for an opportunity to test or build their leadership skills, a role as board member, president, or chair for a nonprofit could be an outstanding developmental step.

We understand that level of commitment and life-balance are of first importance. We recognize that volunteering can be a season in life. We are happy to discuss opportunities with potential team members to find the best fit.

In 2025 the Encinitas Historical Society is in the process of evolving from a pure on-site museum to a curated, digitized, searchable multimedia resource. Now is a historic moment to get involved!

Whether you stay for years or just a while, your contribution to the Encinitas Historical Society will be a meaningful, lasting contribution to our local and wider community.

Contact us or drop by for more information.

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Donations

The Encinitas Historical Society relies on donations to carry out its mission.

Donate at your convenience:

a) Point your camera at the QR code to pay with credit card, Venmo, CashApp, Apple Pay, PayPal, etc.

b) Click this line to pay with credit card, Venmo, CashApp, Apple Pay, PayPal, etc.

c) Mail a check to 1883 Schoolhouse, Re: Donation, 390 West F Street, Encinitas, CA 92024 – please provide your email address and phone number.

d) Visit the Schoolhouse to donate by cash, check, credit card, Venmo, CashApp, Apple Pay, PayPal, etc. And enjoy looking over our branded and Encinitas-themed merchandise – at family prices!

You will receive a receipt for all forms of payment. Remember donations are tax deductible so keep your receipt.