Donating Artifacts

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Through the years, generous donors have given the Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre its rich and varied collection of objects and documents. These donations are greatly appreciated by Museum & Cultural Centre staff, stakeholders and visitors.

The Collections Registrar, Vicky Cooper, is always pleased to talk with donors and prospective donors regarding artifacts which may be of interest for addition to the facility and exhibits.

After 14 months of packing and moving, followed by a 20 month construction phase, we  moved into our new home in 2005. As Rome, we weren’t completed in a day – we’re still unpacking!

Acquisitions:

Our procedures dictate that all objects offered to the collection of the BCM&CC must be reviewed and approved by our Collections Committee. After our temporary suspension of accepting artifacts, we have found that everyone wants to add to the facility! We have initiated new donations and will continue to contact donors as time and space allows.  We thank you for your understanding during this exciting time.

The following will apply to all donations, bequests and assignments:

• Always call first for an appointment to discuss your donation.
• Understand that your donation is a permanent gift, to be held by the Museum in trust for the public.
• Recognize that staff will need time to document the objects before putting them on display. Documentation is called “accessioning”, a process that records a description and formal classification of the artifact, along with information relating to the donor and the historical significance of the object.
• Be aware that some artifacts can be displayed for long periods, but others must spend some time in protective storage. An example is light-sensitive fabrics; the Museum’s collection of quilts and clothes is stored under conditions to preserve these delicate fabrics that occasionally are part of an exhibit. Very seldom do we mount or display original photographs, as the light is very detrimental to the image. Family portraits are reproduced and accessible in our Photo Finding Aid.
• From time to time, the collection is reviewed. Artifacts on display may be rotated for their protection and to comply with ministry guidelines and regulations.
• Objects may be permanently removed (“deaccessioned”). The deaccessioning process involves extensive evaluation of the artifact and compliance to the Museum’s approved policies. Every attempt to contact the donor is made.
• While no budget is allocated for the purchase of artifacts, as a registered charitable institution, Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre can issue to donors receipts for income tax purposes, according to values provided by an independent appraiser.

Download a copy of the Deed of Gift.

More information about donating can be requested via our contact page on this site.