Janet-
What kind of an exhibit is it that you are doing?   Unless it is a live
interpretation situation, there is no need to clean the rust off of these
tool, its current condition only illustrates is age and is part of the
objects history.  There is also no need to coat them with renaissance wax
unless you clean them.  Once rusted they will not continue to rust unless
they are cleaned and the underlying metal is exposed to the air even if you
treat them.  I have to disagree with one of my fellow colleagues, DO NOT oil
them.  The original surface of the metal has already been compromised and
oiling them will not return them to the state they were in when they were
used and unless you are going to use them and constantly oil them, the oil
will only become another conservation issue that can become more of a
problem then your original rust issue.  Also remember that rust eats the top
layer of the metal and each time the object re-rusts and is re-cleaned you
will strip away more and more of the underlying metal until the object is
completely compromised.

It is true that loggers would never leave their tools in that condition, but
you are not a logger.  You are a museum and your main purpose is to preserve
and educate about the objects.  You can do them whether they are rusty or
not. If you need assistance, definitely contact a metal conservator.

I hope this will help
Tracie Evans
Collections Manager
Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum
[log in to unmask]
PO Box 2570 Waco TX 76702
254/750-8631

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Janet Geronime [SMTP:[log in to unmask]]
> Sent: Tuesday, January 06, 2004 9:49 PM
> To:   [log in to unmask]
> Subject:      rusty tools
>
> We are preparing an exhibit of logging tools and some of them are rusty.
> One volunteer (we are all volunteers) suggested using Renaissance Wax
> (from Light Impressions catalog). Would that be appropriate or is there
> something better to use?
>
> Janet Geronime
> NorthernWaters Museum
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