M. A. Ehr wrote:
>
> Recently, someone dropped off an item at our museum (literally left it on
> the front steps). We have no idea who left it, and no documentation
> whatsoever. It is not in very good shape, either, and we do not want to add
> it to our collections. Unfortunately, as it was donated anonymously, we
> can't give it back, either.
>
> The sticky part: neither Wisconsin statutes nor our collections policy
> address unsolicited anonymous "drop-off" donations. Has anyone else ever
> run into this situation? Does anyone have a policy that covers this type of
> situation? What about if the item was something we did intend to accession?
>
> Any assistance in clarifying our options/responsibilities in this matter
> will be appreciated.
>
> Thanks
>
> Meg Ehr
> Curator
> Outagamie Museum and Houdini Historical Center
> 330 E. College Ave.
> Appleton, WI  54911
> (920) 735-9370


I wish I had the magical answer to your problem with the mystery object.

Bob Handy