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TO: Mayor Thomas J. Weisner
FROM: John Russell, grant writer
DATE: 4/28/2015
SUBJECT:
Seeking Authorization to apply for the Grand Victoria Riverboat Fund grant in the amount of $23,838 to purchase display/storage equipment for the new GAR Memorial Museum Research and Visible Storage Center. Approval by the full City Council is needed by June 1, 2015.
PURPOSE:
The new GAR Memorial Museum Research and Visible Storage Center is being formed at the Aurora Public Art Commission galleries at the David L. Pierce Art & History Center, at 20 E. Downer Place. The Research and Visible Storage Center will allow the public maximum access to the Museum's object and archival collections without compromising the best long-term care for the GAR Museum's delicate artifacts. Grand Victoria Riverboat Fund assistance is being sought for the purchase of two Visible Storage Flat File units. The Visible Storage Flat File units feature carefully designed drawers to safely and properly display artifacts. Visitors will be able to pull out drawers securely housing small artifacts, to view the medals, ribbons, and military accessories from the Civil War through the Vietnam War. These artifacts are currently boxed in off-site storage. The cabinets, with 11 drawers each, have sliding, lockable glass lids and individual drawer locks. The grant request includes the purchase of one roll of Ethafoam to be used to line shelves and drawers of the Visible Storage File units, providing stability and cushion for three-dimensional artifacts.
BACKGROUND:
The Civil War veterans of GAR Post 20 began collecting artifacts when the GAR Hall first opened in 1878. Volunteers continued that work through the 20th century, haphazardly collecting artifacts from the Civil War through modern day. As the opening of the Museum Research Center nears, the City has contracted with an experienced museum professional to curate the GAR Memorial Museum collection. Under the direction of the curator...
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