Since I was the person who initiated the discussion about Bob Vila's three-part tv series, "Guide to Historic Homes of America," I thought it might be appropriate to draw some conclusions. I watched all three programs and have followed the ensuing discussion. In addition, I received a number of postings sent directly to me. (Thankfully, those who flamed me for this thread did it privately.) My concern was Mr. Vila touching original museum objects with his bare hands. I still contend that much of it was unnecessary. Of special concern to me was that in some cases the directors/curators joined in. Granted that moving doors, opening drawers, folding table tops, etc. presented information hard to know otherwise, and that some conservators do not recommend wearing gloves when moving furniture because of an uncertain grip, there may have been some exceptions. Overall, however, I was left with an impression of constant handling and stroking objects throughout the historic houses. I think this message was conveyed to many who watched. Lessons I learned about filming in a museum or historic site are: 1. Never assume anything. Although perhaps experts in their own fields, most "guests" will need some education about the stewardship of collections. Have a firm written agreement about handling collection objects. 2. Never trust a film crew or visiting "star." 3. There may reasons to make exceptions to regular rules about handling. These need to be thought about and decided in advance. 4. Realize that you will probably lose some control once the cameras start rolling. Be prepared to "stop the cameras" if necessary. Most importantly: 5. Even if you are able to maintain perfect control at your own site, if you are involved in a large project with multiple properties such as the Vila series, you will have no control over what happens at other places, and your site will be lumped in with the others. I spoke with (non-museum) friends who watched the Bob Vila series and were horrified at all of the handling, but who did not distinguish among the sites. My friends were especially concerned about Monticello, which was probably the place where Vila was the most restrained. An article by Shawn Cunningham, "Hollywood is Calling," from *Museum News* March/April, 1992, gives some tips on pros and cons of filming. Although not specifically about filming, an article that provides some insight on the responsibilities of stewardship appeared in the (New York) Regional Council of Historical Agencies newsletter, Spring 1990. By Anne W. Ackerson, Director of Historic Cherry Hill, it's entitled, "Using Historic Sites for Generating Revenue: A Case for Restraint." Janice Klein, chair of the Registrars Committee of the American Association of Museums is looking into a session on filming in museums for the 1997 AAM conference. Hopefully, this will generate some useful advice, perhaps some that will produce more in writing to guide those who are contemplating filming at their sites. Pat Miller Patricia L. Miller Illinois Heritage Association 602 1/2 E. Green St. Champaign, IL 61820 tel: 217-359-5600; email: [log in to unmask] visit our homepage: http://www.prairienet.org/~xx162/homepage.html