Pam -- 

I'm assuming the original can still be flattened so
flatten it as carefully as you ever have showing it to
visitors.

Make several color photocopies of the original
document and trim them to the same size for the
purpose of removing the document from the tin and
showing it to the kids. When one wears out, replace it
with a fresh one.  Folding and unfolding paper
stresses the fibers and sooner or later, it will start
to tear along the folds, regardless of what sort of
container it is stored in.  Now you've got a good prop
to amaze your visitors.   

Next arrange to have the original scanned or
photograph ed in order to document its present
condition, and put the original into an acid-free,
pH-buffered enclosure asap.  Store it somewhere away
from direct light at a steady coolish temperature with
the R.H. around 50%.  The less the temperature/RH
varies over time, the better.  

If you've access to a paper conservator, ask him/her
for advice on deacidification, repair of tears,
reinforcement of the folded sheets.   Resist the
temptation to handle the original if you want to
ensure it has the longest possible life.

Judy Turner
Whitefish Bay, WI  (Happy fireworks, all)


       
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