Preservation Plan for Textile Collection Storage Area Renovation and Rehousing Project

FAIN: PG-50011-07

Skagit County Historical Society (La Conner, WA 98257-0818)
Karen Marshall (Project Director: May 2006 to July 2009)
Patricia L Doran (Project Director: July 2009 to January 2010)

Hiring a consultant to develop a plan to rehouse the museum's 19th-century textile and clothing collections. The consultant will also assist staff with the purchase of storage cabinets and racks, environmental monitoring equipment, and acid-free storage materials. The textile and clothing collections include everyday, fancy dress, and work clothing worn by adults and children, the museum's educational use costume collection, quilts and coverlets.

The Textile Collection Storage Area Renovation and Rehousing Project involves hiring a conservator to help the Skagit County Historical Society staff develop a preservation plan and design a new storage area for textiles numbering approximately 4,388 pieces. Located on the first level of our exhibition building, this storage area formerly housed our furniture, tool, and domestic machinery collections. We believe it is essential for us to bring in a textile conservator to help us with the following tasks: 1.) assess the existing 2,184 sq. ft. area to maximize the storage capability; 2.) conduct a brief survey of the collection to assess storage needs and recommend proper supplies, tools, furniture, and equipment; 3.) develop an integrated pest management program for the new storage area.