Wanda-
At the museum I used to work at, we too grappled with
the props vs. artifacts question. When we catalogued
items we developed a code to use. After the number we
added a one letter code:
A = artifact
P = prop
R = recreation (for items we had made to look exactly
like an artifact we couldn't obtain)

We also indicate if an item was a recreation to the
museum visitor.

Lisa


--- Wanda Edwards <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

> There seems to be some confusion in our institution
> about the difference between an artifact and a prop,
> especially when thy are used in exhibits.  I've
> tried to explain the difference, but not always with
> success.  I think part of the problem stems from the
> company that designed and built some of the 
> permanent  exhibits in new building.  Sometimes they
> went to flea markets and junk stores and bought "old
> stuff" to incorporate into their designs. Of course,
> that "old stuff"  tends to look like some of the
> artifacts from our collection that are also on
> display.  Does anyone have clear, simple definitions
> that I can share with our staff?   
> 
> Thanks for your help.  This list is always a great
> source of information.
> 
> Wanda Edwards
> Curator of Collections, Library and Archives
> Orange County Regional History Center
> 65 East Central Boulevard
> Orlando, FL 32801
> Tel: 407.836.8587 Fax: 407.836.8550
> www.thehistorycenter.org 
> Explore. Connect. Imagine. Reflect.
> 
>
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