We are a county historical society, who recieved a bequest in the will of one
of our local citizens, directing us to select any "tangible personal property
from my home"  which we  "shall deem to have historical value to such
respective society..."

The lawyer and executors of the will are unwilling to let us have the items we
have selected, unless we comply with their request (which I have copied, below,
HS is Historical Society--us):

"The Coexecutors are accountable to parties other than the
HS for items in and about the house.  The Co-Ex will require a statement from
the curator regarding each particular item selected for the benefit of the HS.
For example, if the HS already has a particular item but believes that Mr. B;s
article would upgrade that item, then a statement can be made indicating such.
If the HS wishes to present a particular scene or wishes to establish a
collection of certain articles representative of WC and the particular item
will contribute to that collection or scene, then it can be so stated.  In
short, there should be an explanation of how a particular item will enhance
the HS's permanent collection.  If it cannot be explained, the then HS will
not receive the item.
        In addition, I will need the assurance of the curator, who has the
professional ability to make appropriate commentary, that the items selected
will be part of the permanent collection and will not be used for resale or
any other purposes not directly related to the Society's permanent colletion."

Is this reasonable?  Should we comply?  We have selected several hundred items.
 Has anyone had a similar problem?  Help!

Ann Morton
Curator, Wayne County Historical Society