Wow, you've got an ethical dilema on your hands. First,  l'd consult the
Registrar's and Curator's codes of ethics prior to making any decisions. Then
I'd strongly recommend against letting the VIP fire the weapon. Remember that
once accessioned, objects take on a very different meaning than they had in
"Life." They have been turned over to museums...placed in the public trust... to
be cared for in perpetuity. In the modern museum this means that we no longer
wear historic costume since we recognise the phenominal amount of stress this
places on the clothes and that that is anathama to our mission to care for the
objects.

This argument extends to historic firearms as well. Your role is to preserve and
interpret this piece. Just what does the administration hope to learn by firing
the gun at a target. We know the guy can shoot straight and that the piece is
accurate. What else is there? If you have any other doubts, call your insurance
agent and ask him what it's going to cost to use the piece in this manner. You
will be placing it at unusual risk.

I fully agree with Henry Crawford's comments!!!
If it helps, I'm a member of the NRA and I think the weapon should not be fired.


Plus this really isn't akin to feeding Zuni masks. Taking appropriate spiritual
care of objects really isn't the same as letting someone be sentimental.
______________________________________________________________________
Diane Gutenkauf, Curator
Elmhurst Historical Museum
120 E. Park Avenue
Elmhurst, IL 60126 USA

Voice: +(708) 833-1457
  Fax: +(708) 833-1326
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