Significant historical items of the 20th century and many from the 19th century are in the basements and attics of private homes all over the country. The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture has launched a national program to help identify these objects and encourage people to protect and preserve them.

Hometown Treasures
Would you like to know how to save a family treasure? In 15-minute sessions with professional reviewers, participants may share what they know about their item and learn more about its origins. The reviewers might take photographs or scan images of items for later use with your permission. RSVP required for review.

Classroom I: Preserving Clothing and Textiles
What is a “Textile” in the museum world? Rag dolls, flags/banners, hats, lace, linens, needlework, quilts/blankets, uniforms, upholstery/curtains – think fabric. Come and get some tips on how to better preserve your daughter’s Christening gown, your grandmother’s wedding dress, or your father’s military uniform from professionals who work in the field of textile preservation. Classrooms are open and do not require a reservation. Presented by Smithsonian staff.

Classroom II: Preserving Paper/Photographs/Books
This session is presented by Smithsonian Archives staff. Presenters will focus on preservation techniques to save and protect photographs, books, and other treasured paper documents.

Classroom III: What is Provenance?
Do you know that before donating or selling a personal treasure to a cultural institution or organization one must establish “provenance” (pronounced prov-uh-nuh-ns) of that object? Have you heard of this word before, or understand its meaning? If not, you will after this presentation on the process to establish the place of origin and the records needed to authenticate your special item(s). Presented by Smithsonian Institution staff.

Hands on Preservation
Learn how to pack garments; store paper and photographs as well as keep ceramics in good condition for generations to come by using preservation tools, materials, and techniques.


To reserve a slot for a personal Hometown Treasures review of your family’s private treasures write to rsvpnmaahc@si.edu or call 1-888-249-8033. Space is limited. Your reservation will not be considered complete unless you include in your message
 

• The participant’s first and last name
• What item(s) he/she will be bringing (Furniture, art, rugs/carpets, or objects larger than a shopping bag will not be reviewed.
• What time of day he/she would like to have his/her review
• Group A 10:00AM to 11:30AM
• Group B 11:45AM to 12:30PM
• Group C 1:30PM to 4:15PM