Museum Artifact Donations
What we are Collecting
The Museum is currently collecting any objects or photographs that are part of Woodstock's history. The Museum Collection Policy defines this as; objects or photos that were made in Woodstock, used in Woodstock or would have been used in Woodstock. All donations are reviewed before becoming a part of the collection. Please see the FAQ section below on how to donate and the review process.
What we are not Collecting or can't Take
The Museum is not collecting archival materials; please direct archival material to the Oxford County Archives or the Oxford Historical/Genealogical Society. The Museum does not take newspaper as there is no way to stop it from breaking down. The Museum cannot take larger objects, due to space restrictions. As a general rule of thumb - if it will not fit through a standard door we will not be able to take it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does the Woodstock Museum NHS Determine what is collected?
All donations are presented before the Museum Advisory Committee to determine whether the Museum will accept them into the collection. The Committee, with recommendations from staff, looks at three main areas to make their determination: the objects history, its condition and relevance to our mission statement. Other factors such as size, special restrictions and greater significance to another institution, may also be considered.
Who is the Museum Advisory Committee?
The Museum Advisory Committee is made up of Woodstock citizens who are appointed by Council for a four year term.
How can I make a donation to the Woodstock Museum?
All donations need to be brought to the Museum for review by the Museum Advisory Committee before they are accepted. We ask that larger items be photographed and the photos be brought in due to space restrictions. The Committee meets approximately once a month to review all pending donations. When you bring in your object(s) for donation you will be asked to fill out a temporary receipt in order for the Museum to hold onto your donation while waiting for their review. Your objects will receive the same care as the rest of the Museum's collection while waiting for review.
What happens to my donation if it is accepted?
If the Committee accepts your donation into the collection, then you will receive a letter in the mail with a donor form that you will need to fill out and return in the postage paid envelope to the Museum. When the Museum has received the completed donor form, your objects will be processed and added to our collection for future generations to enjoy and learn from.
What happens if my donation is not accepted?
If the Committee does not accept your donation into the collection, then you will receive a letter in the mail that thanks you for your donation and asks that you to make arrangements to pick up your objects.
How do I donate to the Education Collection?
There is a spot on the temporary receipt for you to fill in, as to which collection you would like your objects to go to. You may select both and the committee will decide where the objects are best suited to be.
What happens if I don't wish to fill out a temporary receipt or donor form?
If you do not fill out a temporary receipt when you leave your object at the Museum they will be disposed of immediately. If you do not fill out and return the donor form within 30 days of acceptance, then the objects are still legally yours and cannot be entered into the Museum's collection. You will be then notified to pick them up within 30 days or they will be disposed of.
Can I bring in my object(s) to be appraised?
No, the Museum does not have the ability to appraise objects. You would have to go to a professional appraiser.
What happens if I decide that I would like my object(s) back in a few years?
As soon as you sign them over to the Museum they become the legal property of the Museum and they are no longer yours. Please think carefully and consult your family members before making any donations.
If I have any more questions, who do I contact?
For any questions about the collection, donations, or researching please contact the Collection/Exhibit Coordinator (519) 537-8411 ex 2902.
