Since I was the person who initiated the discussion about
Bob Vila's three-part tv series, "Guide to Historic Homes of
America," I thought it might be appropriate to draw some
conclusions.  I watched all three programs and have followed
the ensuing discussion.  In addition, I received a number of
postings sent directly to me.  (Thankfully, those who flamed
me for this thread did it privately.)

My concern was Mr. Vila touching original museum objects
with his bare hands.  I still contend that much of it was
unnecessary.  Of special concern to me was that in some
cases the directors/curators joined in.  Granted that
moving doors, opening drawers, folding table tops, etc.
presented information hard to know otherwise, and that
some conservators do not recommend wearing gloves when
moving furniture because of an uncertain grip, there may
have been some exceptions.  Overall, however, I was left
with an impression of constant handling and stroking objects
throughout the historic houses. I think this message was
conveyed to many who watched.  Lessons I learned about
filming in a museum or historic site are:

1. Never assume anything.  Although perhaps experts in
their own fields, most "guests" will need some education
about the stewardship of collections.  Have a firm written
agreement about handling collection objects.

2. Never trust a film crew or visiting "star."

3. There may reasons to make exceptions to regular rules
about handling.  These need to be thought about and decided
in advance.

4. Realize that you will probably lose some control once the
cameras start rolling.  Be prepared to "stop the cameras" if
necessary.

Most importantly:

5. Even if you are able to maintain perfect control at your
own site, if you are involved in a large project with
multiple properties such as the Vila series, you will have
no control over what happens at other places, and your site
will be lumped in with the others.  I spoke with
(non-museum) friends who watched the Bob Vila series and were
horrified at all of the handling, but who did not
distinguish among the sites.  My friends were especially
concerned about Monticello, which was probably the place
where Vila was the most restrained.

An article by Shawn Cunningham, "Hollywood is Calling," from
*Museum News* March/April, 1992, gives some tips on pros and
cons of filming.

Although not specifically about filming, an article that
provides some insight on the responsibilities of stewardship
appeared in the (New York) Regional Council of Historical Agencies
newsletter, Spring 1990.  By Anne W. Ackerson, Director of
Historic Cherry Hill, it's entitled, "Using Historic Sites
for Generating Revenue: A Case for Restraint."

Janice Klein, chair of the Registrars Committee of the
American Association of Museums is looking into a session on
filming in museums for the 1997 AAM conference.  Hopefully,
this will generate some useful advice, perhaps some that
will produce more in writing to guide those who are
contemplating filming at their sites.

Pat Miller




Patricia L. Miller
Illinois Heritage Association
602 1/2 E. Green St.
Champaign, IL  61820
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