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Behind The Scenes At The History Museum: Collections Care In Progress

Writer's picture: Crystal RakesCrystal Rakes

As many of you know, the Paso Robles Area Historical Society and History Museum in downtown Paso Robles is a treasure trove of local history, filled with objects, documents, and photographs that tell the story of Paso Robles. Our collection is constantly growing, presenting challenges with both storage and organization.


A new Significant project at the History Museum

Volunteers at the Paso Robles History Museum.

Recently, we have embarked on a significant project to inventory the collection and assess our storage capabilities here at the History Museum. Proper storage and organization are crucial for the preservation of historical artifacts. When objects are stored in suboptimal conditions, they are susceptible to damage from:

  • Light

  • Temperature

  • Humidity

  • Pests

  • Improper Handling


By taking time to inventory and reassess how objects are stored, we take proactive steps to protect these irreplaceable pieces of our past.


Our dedicated team of volunteers has been hard at work examining each object in our collection. This process involves assessing the object's condition and identifying its provenance (a detailed history of the ownership of an object), history, and significance to the Paso Robles area.


Once we have a thorough understanding of our collections, we are repackaging them in archival-quality material. This involves using specialized supplies like acid-free tissue paper, boxes, and object bags to protect objects from light, dust, and other environmental dangers. Additionally, we are implementing new organization systems that will make accessing and utilizing our collections for research, exhibitions, and educational programs easier.


The Challenges Of Managing History


This project has not been without challenges. Many items have either been stored in poor conditions or gone missing; some records were incomplete or incorrect. But with the hard work of our volunteers and through the generous support of our donors, we have made significant progress. By investing in our collections, we are preserving our past and ensuring that future generations can learn from and appreciate our rich history.


A volunteer at the Paso Robles History Museum.

Get involved with local history


As we continue to work on this project, we invite you to get involved. Whether you have a passion for history, a knack for organization, or a desire to give back to your community, there are many ways to contribute. You can volunteer your time to help our team inventory, rehouse objects, or perform other tasks associated with collections management at the History Museum. You can also support our efforts by donating to our Collections fund - every dollar counts!

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