At Conner Prairie we track 99% of our reproductions with what is called a CPM number (CPM is Conner Prairie Museum), which is a consecutive system.  We started at 4,000, so CPM. 4000 is a rifle.  I assigned the number CPM.14244 which is a chair bolster, yesterday.  We have been using this system since 1978 or so.

I think what you are asking about kids asking questions is in reference to the obvious number applied to the object.  This occassionaly happens to our interpreters, but they seem to handle it well.  One thing we try to do when applying the number is to "hide" it.  Someplace that is not too conspicuous for the public, but a no brainer for the staff who is looking for the number, and where it won't wear off (too quickly).  Engraving works well on metals and ceramics, but some things simply cannot be engraved, such as textiles and wood.  You can pick up an engraver at Wal-Mart for about $20.

Lana Newhart-Kellen
Registrar
Conner Prairie Living History Museum
13400 Allisonville Road
Fishers  IN  46038
317-776-6000  xt. 251
317-776-6014  fax



>>> [log in to unmask] 01/21/04 11:25PM >>>
I've been asked to get input on how other living history and hands on
historical museums inventory their reproduction items. We use standard museum coding
for our actual artifacts but have found that the long number on the
reproductions we use for living history (1st person) tend to generate a lot of questions
from the kids. This makes it hard to stay in character. Any ideas would be
appreciated.
Annmarie Zan
Interpretive Specialist
Isle a la Cache Museum
Romeoville, IL

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