Textile Storage Survey for the Schenectady County Historical Society

FAIN: PG-50104-07

Schenectady County Historical Society (Schenectady, NY 12305-1601)
Kathryn Lynn Weller (Project Director: May 2006 to December 2008)

Hiring a consultant to assess the storage needs of the society's textile collection and to conduct an on-site workshop to train staff and volunteers in the proper handling, cleaning, and rehousing of the textiles. The society's textile collection includes formal attire, everyday clothing, uniforms and military accessories for women and men, children's clothing, doll clothing, quilts, coverlets, rugs, and household textiles that date from the mid-1800s. Highlights of the collection include an 18th-century Liberty Flag and handmade samplers from 1764 to the 1830s.

The textile storage survey will estimate the storage needs for the Schenectady County Historical Society's textile and textile-related collections that are located at both the museum and the Mabee Farm. The collection will be grouped by type and appropriate storage method will be determined. Square footage for each storage method will be calculated, which will then aid in determining the needs for future storage facility expansion. One on-site visit will be made to measure specific textiles. Mid-term solutions for improved and proper storage in the museum and Mabee Farm will be recommended. A report with the calculations lists will be submitted. Also included will be a description and drawings of the various storage methods with an estimate of storage materials and supplies that will be needed for the project. The second phase is a daylong training workshop. Volunteers and staff will learn the procedures for proper handling, vacuuming and rehousing of artifacts.