Considering a Contribution to the Maine State Museum?

 

Donations of Historic Maine Objects

The objects on exhibit and in the collections at the Maine State Museum must be compatible with our mission "to collect, preserve and research objects of Maine’s natural and cultural history, and to interpret these collections in a responsible manner through educational programs, publications, exhibitions and outreach". Most of these artifacts and scientific specimens were gifts to the Museum and the people of Maine. If you are thinking of donating items to the Maine State Museum, we thank you, and offer a brief summary of the donation process.

Gift offers are always welcome, and are considered carefully. The Maine State Museum may only accession items that were made in Maine or have a history of use in the state. In the case of natural history specimens, the item must have been found in Maine, or have a historical connection to the state. Curators consider an object’s history and condition, and compare the item to those in the collection. If the Museum already has a similar item, we may not be able to accept the object. The history of the item plays a large role in this decision. The more we know about an object (where was it made? who made it? or bought it? and who used it? where? when?), the more we can tell our visitors about it. Once a curator has accepted an object for consideration, the Collections Committee must recommend the acquisition to the Director.

When you make your appointment to bring an object to the Museum for consideration, the registrar or curator will familiarize you with the procedures for potential donations. Gifts to the Maine State Museum are without restrictions, that is, the object becomes the property of the museum, with no strings attatched. The museum cannot display everything in the collection; in fact, permanent exibition would not be good for long term preservation. However, every artifact and specimen has historic and scientific value, and even if they stay behind the scenes they are accessible to researchers.

If you are considering a donation, please e-mail the Museum Registrar or call (207)287-2301, for further information and an appointment.

 

How else may I contribute to the Maine State Museum?

The museum depends on its talented group of volunteers for work ranging from assisting visitors in the galleries or Museum Store to carpentry projects, special events, working with special collections, or the photodocumentation of our new acquistitions. If you are interested in donating your time and services to the museum, our Volunteer Coordinator will be happy to help you find the best "fit" for your talents!

Gifts of cash, appreciated security, real estate and life insurance, as well as bequests and life income gifts are welcome. These gifts offer tax deduction advantages and in some cases, elimination of capital gains taxes. Please contact the Friends of the Maine State Museum for further information on specific Museum needs and ways to contribute.

 

Thank you for your support!

 

The Maine State Museum is open Monday through Friday 9 AM to 5 PM
Saturday 10 AM to 4 PM
Sunday CLOSED
Closed Holidays

For more information, please call 207-287-2301 or TTY 888-557-6690 or check the museum website at: www.mainestatemuseum.org.