Avoca Museum collects artifacts that reflect local and regional history, with a primary focus on the Colonial period through the Edwardian era. Our collection emphasizes objects that illustrate daily life, work, traditions, and community experiences across generations.

We welcome items that help us interpret and share these stories, including but not limited to:

• Photographs, letters, diaries, and scrapbooks

• Clothing and textiles, including original garments and select historically accurate period reenactment clothing used for interpretive and educational programming

• Household objects, tools, and decorative arts

• Business, civic, and organizational records

• Military, political, and social history artifacts

• Materials related to schools, churches, workplaces, and community events

Items outside these time periods may still be considered if they have strong local significance or support Avoca Museum’s interpretive mission.

Your artifact can help us deepen our understanding of local life and culture. When you donate an item, you are helping to:

• Enhance our collection with objects that reflect everyday life, significant moments, and cultural heritage.

• Preserve history in a professional, climate-controlled environment.

• Inspire learning for students, scholars, and visitors of all ages.

We welcome gifts that contribute to the stories we tell about our region.

Here’s what to expect when you offer an artifact to Avoca Museum:

1. Tell Us About It – Complete a donation interest form or email us with a description and photos of your item(s).

2. Review by Staff – Our collections team evaluates your submission to see whether it aligns with our mission and collection goals.

3. Next Steps – If accepted, we’ll contact you to arrange transfer of the item and provide a formal deed of gift.

Please note that due to space and preservation considerations, we cannot accept every item offered.