Loans or donations to museums

[Jayworld]

I have donated 25+ pieces out of my Southwest Conference collection to the Texas Sports Hall of Fame in Waco, Texas, and it has been a pleasurable experience. The loan is long-term, and I put a dollar amount in insurance on each item in the unlikely event that an item(s) is lost, stolen, museum burns, etc., then I will be reimbursed that amount. Could not have been more pleased with the way things went down, and the items are on long-term loan in revolving 2-year renewals.

Not to plug my collection, but if you are ever in Waco a stop at the Texas Sports Hall of Fame is a must if you have any interest in the defunct Southwest Conference. In the large SWC room of the museum, each of the nine schools has its own section highlighted by game-used memorabilia, pennants, books, mascot costumes, historical artifacts, etc., with a replica of the Cotton Bowl facade as you enter the large room.

I would suggest you get all your ducks in a row with whatever museum(s) you are considering loaning your items and make sure to read through the loan contract to your satisfaction.

[Duluth Eskimo]

Originally Posted by Jayworld

The loan is long-term, and I put a dollar amount in insurance on each item in the unlikely event that an item(s) is lost, stolen, museum burns, etc., then I will be reimbursed that amount.

This reply is in no way meant to offend you, but you are hoping you get reimbursed and hoping you get your items back. Mainly reimbursed should something happen. This is just like buying insurance when you ship or have items lost or stolen. Talk to me after the fact. I would be very careful with what you donate or loan and have an explicit contract set up should something get damaged or stolen. There is a lot of assuming when it comes to things like this. I just got back a bunch of items I loaned to my local city museum for a sports exhibit they had for the last year. The items were not of huge value, but are very difficult to find. I went in knowing that there is a chance I will never see them again. Trust me and others, there are plenty of stories out there like the one Ben describes. Just my two cents and place that much worth on it