actually, steps were taken. Archeology magazine did an article about this in last months issue. Large objects were surrounded by sandbags, floors were softened with sand. Objects were moved into vaults. They also discussed that the museums were marked with "UNESCO" so that bombers would know which buildings were cultural institutions. Museum staff were living in the museum to add further protection. Unfortunately, a handful of museum staff could not fight an armed mob. nor could they offer any viable threat to this mob. The article also warned that many looters were very prepared and organized, having already set up international buyers for the objects.
As far as letting the mob into the vault goes, I wonder how many of us would open vaults when their lives are directly threatened.
-------Original Message-------
From: "Campbell, Robin (PEB)" <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: 04/16/03 09:41 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Enough Already
>
> This raises an excellent point that seems to have been overlooked (or
perhaps I've just missed it) in the discussion so far - What preparations did
the cultural institutions themselves take in preparation for the war and its
possible consequences? In anticipation of W.W.II, artwork, books,
documents were secured in caves, bunkers, etc. across Europe in an attempt to
protect the objects from bombing and looting. This current war did not arrive
without warning - were not steps taken to secure the cultural icons and
treasures? Even if the looting was unanticipated, surely some steps were taken
to protect against bombing?
Please understand - this is not a case of blaming the victim but an
opportunity for all of us to learn so that next time we are better prepared.
Robin Campbell, Associate Curator
NYS Bureau of Historic Sites
Waterford, NY
-----Original Message-----
From: Joann Lindstrom [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Tuesday, April 15, 2003 9:28 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Enough Already
I would have no life whatsoever if I read every e-mail I have received
from
this list on the subject of looting in Iraq.
This could be a great opportunity for discussion on disaster preparedness.
We could explore ways in which we could work together to assist our Iraqi
colleagues during this terrible tragedy. Maybe we could write angry
letters
to our representatives who seem to be doing nothing about this
situation...
Please--I urge all of you to do one/some of the above and leave your
politics at home. This list is not the venue for political discussion.
Joann Lindstrom
Museum Consultant
Candor, NY
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