Hello All,

Your advice is sought.  An individual donated an object to us in 1990 and
signed a "Deed of Gift" form.  The form had all the usual language about
transfer of ownership, the museum's right to display (or not) the object at
its discretion, to deaccession the object, etc.  Also included in the
conditions was a 90 day period in which the donor could change his mind and
reclaim his donation.

The individual visited the museum recently, and inquired about his donation.
The donor was informed that the object was currently in storage, as we
haven't the space to display everything.  The donor was upset and stated
that he wants his piece back unless we agree to put it on display --
something I will not do for obvious reasons.

I feel that the contract should stand -- we have not violated any conditions
(which were clearly stated) and the piece is being cared for.  However, I
fear that the individual will try to go over my head by approaching local
officials regarding his request (we are a county department).  To further
muddy the issue, the individual has offered to make a donation in exchange
for the piece -- which makes me very nervous.

I feel that the only solution is to refuse, but that decision may be taken
away from me if these officials get involved.  Any suggestions?

Christine M. Dwyer
Stanly County Museum & Historic Preservation Commission
245 East Main Street, Albemarle, NC  28001 USA
Tel: 704/ 986-3777         Fax: 704/ 986-3778

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