Dear Aqualieb
Fund raising is an important activity of every museum. However, selling
archaeological materials, even for a good cause, sends a mixed message to
the public. If it's okay for you to collect artifacts and sell them for
profit why isn't it okay for everyone? Archaeological and historic
resources are already endangered by artifact hunters and collectors who
don't know any better and others who loot sites for profit. It is the job
of museums to educate the public and set an example of ethical behavior. I
urge you not to sell buttons or any other artifact. A few dozen buttons
won't take much space in your collection.
Mary Parr
Kona Historical Society
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