Meet Volunteer Marlene Jackson

“I grew up in Santa Fe and have lived here most of my life. I first came to Las Golondrinas in its early years. The woman who donated the Raton schoolhouse, Dolores Noell, was a friend, so I was here when the schoolhouse was opened and dedicated.

This is my 9th year of volunteering at Las Golondrinas. I was a computer programmer before retirement.

Of course, I enjoy being at the schoolhouse, but the New Mexico history I’ve learned from the excellent volunteer training and from more experienced volunteers and staff has made other parts of the Ranch come alive for me: the chapel, the Golondrinas placita, the Baca house, the morada, and Sierra Village. I like to come on Wednesday when things are quiet and we have time to chat with guests. It is my day to read New Mexico history between guests.

I enjoy assisting Becky and Tom with tin stamping and other craft projects on festival days.

I’m a docent at the New Mexico History Museum and I also do downtown walking tours for NMHM Friends of History.

In addition, I work on decorations for the Folk Art Market for about 3 weeks from late June through take-down after the market.

I volunteer for the SWAIA Indian Market in the 3 days before market and am skilled at stuffing envelopes and folding tee shirts.

I like to sew and have done a little tin craft.”

It is obvious that Marlene stays quite busy with all her volunteer activities. We are thrilled that she chooses to spend some of her time here at El Rancho de las Golondrinas.