We have a small house museum. Although it has a long association with one family it has been fitted out as a typical home of the period. The was because we lacked detail and trully wanted it to represent a typical home of the period. Now we have some possessions of a family member who once lived there. We have so few items that once belonged to the historic site in general that these items are all the more valuable. While I have some concerns about security my concern here is the display of the items. Pieces like the hatbox would be simple to place. The more difficult items are the books with their sentimental inscriptions.Placing them in the room gives them the context they would most likely have had in their use but does not testify to their value they have now attained. Their condition could easily deteriorate with guides handling them whist satisfying the natural curiosity of visitors. At the same time I did not want to place these items in a case in the period display rooms which I believe would look ridiculous. The only other option is to place them in a case in the interpretation room. My problem then is that these items will most likely be viewed as 'sacred objects of this particular family. This is not what this house museum is about. Any ideas? Thanks, Jennifer **************** Jennifer Nuske Port Arthur Australia [log in to unmask]