Collections Policy

Acquisitions/ Scope of Collection

The collection of the Troy Museum and Historic Village shall include documentary and photographic artifacts, domestic and agricultural implements, textiles and clothing, and other objects indicative of the lifestyles, customs, dress and resources of the residents, businesses, and government of Troy, Michigan and surrounding areas that are of historical importance to this and future generations of Troy residents. Artifacts less than 50 years old must have a direct significance to Troy , its residents, government, businesses, etc. Other objects outside the scope of the collections policy will be considered for collection if deemed useful to the educational program or acquired with the intent to transfer them to a more appropriate institution. Digital images collected from original images, photos, artwork, artifacts or documents still held in private by the donor become part of the museum collection and are subject to the same policies governing physical items held by the museum. Objects intended for the Troy Museum Collection will be collected for preservation, research, and exhibit and for use in educational programs. All materials held in the collection will be available for research by all persons or institutions public or private (restrictions based on conservation needs, hours of operation, or other policies may apply).

Please call 248-524-3570 to schedule an appointment with our archivist, Bill Boardman, before you bring anything into the museum.

Acceptance

• All donations are presented as outright and unconditional gifts to be used or disposed of at the discretion of the Troy Museum. The Troy Museum retains the right to dispose of gifts by sale or exchange with other institutions, organizations, or persons. No collection will be accepted with the condition that it is to be kept intact.
• No gift will be accepted on the condition that it is to be permanently exhibited or labeled.
• The Troy Museum will not acquire or otherwise accept as a gift or loan any item that is either known or suspected to be stolen property.
• All gifts donated to the Troy Museum are owned by the Troy Museum and may not be reclaimed by the donor or the donor's heirs at any time hereafter.
• The Troy Museum will not provide donors with appraisals or any other form of monetary assessment. All such appraisals and assessments are the responsibility of the Donor.
• Donors will be provided with a copy of this policy and a copy of the Gift Agreement; originals will be held by the Troy Museum.

Deaccessioning

Artifacts deaccessioned from the Troy Museum Artifact Collection, or items accepted for use in educational or other programs, will be disposed of in a discreet manner that will not compromise the Museum's reputation and is in keeping with the disposal policies of historical institutions and the City of Troy. Donating artifacts to another museum will be considered.