Meet Mayo House Docent, Alice

Visit Alice at Mayo House Saturdays during the summer season from 1 PM to 3 PM

Tell us a bit about yourself! 

I’ve been coming to Chatham off & on for many years, buying my parents’ place from them in 2009. After years of having day jobs that kept us away for much of the summer, we moved to Chatham permanently last year (2025). Both my husband, Sean, and I worked in the technology space; we met in the UK when I was transferred there with an employer at the time. We enjoy traveling, recently spending part of the winter in SE Asia.  We have 2 “twenty-something” daughters.

Please describe your role at Mayo House.

I’m a docent, giving people a history of the house and Josiah, pointing out interesting things like the door hardware Josiah crafted and ‘marked’, and the closet by the fireplace where valuables were kept away from the tax assessor's eyes! I also weave in a bit about the Conservation Foundation and encourage visitors to sign up for CCF’s newsletter. 

What inspired you to become a docent?

As a recovering tech marketer, I was looking for volunteer opportunities that were different from anything I had done previously. Also, friends have told me for a long time that I should be a tour guide. I enjoy learning the history - and the “why” - of places and sharing that with others. This docent role seemed to be a great fit in both regards - different and involving history. The time commitment is very manageable. I know the team would love to add another docent, so I encourage anyone who is even vaguely considering getting involved to reach out to the team. 

What is your favorite part about the job?

I love showing pieces original to the house - the daguerreotype of Josiah, the sampler his daughter Catherine stitched in 1829  (so sweet), and the family Bible. I especially love telling the story of how the Bible was found by a Foundation member at a yard sale about ten years ago, purchased and donated back to the House!

Why should people come visit Mayo House?

The Mayo House is a very interesting slice of Chatham 1800’s history right in downtown - a visit is a great addition to a day of shopping! One can spend two minutes or twenty, depending on your level of interest. Stop by - you’ll be glad you did!