Hello Julie,
Is it possible for the board to remain in its current location? Once it is removed there is the strong possibility that it will eventually be lost and once it is gone the information is lost as well. If the board is kept in its original location an architectural historian would be able to tell whether or not the board is part of the barn’s original construction or a later addition. Architectural pieces are similar to archaeological artifacts in that without the context the information becomes meaningless.
If she needs assistance with preserving the board in place she should call her local historic preservation office. There is hopefully one for her county. If not, she will have to contact the state historic preservation office. They should be able to provide guidance.
And, if all else fails, document the board with photos and make sure the information is kept in a file associated with the property.
Jana Shafagoj
Director of Preservation & Education
Morven Park, Leesburg, Virginia
703-777-2414 ext. 6621
From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Julie Blood
Sent: Friday, October 16, 2015 3:18 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [MUSEUM-L] Preserving engraving on side of barn
Hi All,
I have a member of our museum who has someone working on her barn. She thought the barn dated from the 1920s, but recently discovered that the barn dates from 1886. On the southwest corner of the barn she found engraved the words, “Herren Aug 1886.” I have photos I can send if anyone is interested. This was just discovered yesterday and she asked me to come look at it and give my opinion on how to preserve the wording and the boards. This is not necessarily my area of expertise, I usually deal with the stuff inside the barns. She was thinking about just having the contractor cut the section out and frame it to hang in the barn or house, but I wondered if anyone had any other ideas, possibly ones that could leave the boards intact and still preserve the wording? It is a wonderful find for her and she would really love to preserve this bit of history she’s found.
Thanks,
Julie
Julie Blood
Collections and Exhibit Manager
San Joaquin County Historical Society & Museum
P.O. Box 30, Lodi , CA 95241
Office: (209) 331-2055
Fax: (209) 331-2057