Want to donate to our collections? Here’s how!
Thank you for your interest in donating objects to the Oswego County Historical Society!
All donations undergo a review process from our Collections Committee to ensure that your donation fits within the scope of our collections, that we can properly house it, and that the acquisition is able to be exhibited alongside existing objects in our collections to tell new and dynamic stories.
We ask all potential object donors to complete our Potential Acquisition Questionnaire [PDF] and read on for more information about how the Collections Committee assesses objects to acquire for the Oswego County Historical Society’s collections.
In short, while Oswego County Historical Society continues to collect objects for our collections, both historic and contemporary, we unfortunately will not accept every donation. We are looking to refine our collections, not just grow them. Donations of generic items will never be considered.
Some of the things the Collections Committee considers during the assessment process include:
- Does the item fit the mission and collection scope of the Oswego County Historical Society?
- Does the Society already have this item, or something like it?
- What is the physical condition of the item?
- Is heavy conservation work needed?
- What is the research or exhibition potential of the item?
- Is the item better suited for another museum, library, or historical society’s collections?
Download a digital copy of our Collections Facts Brochure [PDF] for more information.
Donations of items for our fundraising events are also welcome!
Our “Not-So-Silent Auction” features antique, collectibles and gift certificates in a silent auction and a few selected higher priced items in a live auction. We are known for having great pieces of art, small furniture, household items new-in-the-box, and gift certificates for goods or experiences as eclectic as a Tiki boat trip, dinner by a personal chef or a Haunted Oswego tour. This fundraiser is our largest of the year for essential operating expenses at the museum.
Our summer yard sale also accepts donations of used and new goods. We have antiques, collectibles, jewelry, books and items of Oswego history (only of course if we don’t have one or more pieces already in our collection.) We do not take clothing. We only accept furniture that can be lifted and transported easily.
We accept item donations year-round. They may be tax-deductible for you, and you will get a letter of thanks. Please contact us for more information!