How can I make a donation to the Collection?
If you would like to donate an item to the Dartmouth Heritage Museum, please first contact the Collections department with details. If it is determined your objects would be an asset to our Collection you will be asked to bring the item/s to the Museum for review by the Collections Management Committee. Larger items should be photographed with the photos submitted for review (due to space limitations). You will be asked to complete a Provisional Custody Agreement that will allow us temporary custody of items under review. All pending donations are treated with the same care as those already in our Collection. The Committee meets bi-monthly; it may take more than one meeting for a determination, depending on the volume and/or complexity of items being reviewed.
How will I know what the committee decides?
Once your item/s are reviewed by the Committee you will receive a letter advising you of their decision. If your item(s) have been accepted, you will be asked to complete a Deed of Gift form which transfers ownership. Upon receipt of the form the donation is processed by Museum staff and the objects added to our Collection. If your items are not accepted by the Committee, you will be asked to make arrangements for their pickup.
How does the Collections Management Committee decide what is collected?
All donations are presented before the Collections Management 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 decision: 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.
What if I donated something to the museum in the past and I want to know what happened to it?
As soon as you sign them over to the Museum, they become the legal property of Halifax Regional Municipality and they are no longer yours. Please think carefully and consult your family members before making any donations.
What happens if I decide I want my object(s) back in a few years?
As soon as you sign them over to the Museum, they become the legal property of Halifax Regional Municipality and they are no longer yours. Please think carefully and consult your family members before making any donations.
Can I bring 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.
