Greetings,

About 15 years ago, our museum bought a totem pole built in the mid-40's by an American service man. Due to some controversy regarding the legitimacy of the artifact with the local natives, it was decided that the pole was not to be officially "accessioned" but should be instead kept as museum prop for entertainment purposes. 
As of today, this pole is standing erect in our lobby for visitor to see, however we've noticed the wood started to crack starting at the base and could soon be potential hazard.

Is there anyone out there that could give me some insights about:
a. How to preserve totem pole? 
b. Is the museum expected to preserve an artifact that hasn't been accessioned? 

Thank you for your help!


Ingrid martis
Collection Manager
Museum of the Aleutians
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