Collections Inventory and Assessment
The project helps put The Landing back on a professional collections management footing after a disastrous fire several years ago that destroyed all of their inventory information.
The grant allowed them to start making an inventory of the twenty-five buildings that make up The Landing including recording the condition and location of the collection.
By the time the work was concluded three and a half historic structures where inventoried. Throughout the project they overcame numerous work challenges in the buildings, including low light levels, no climate control, rodent activity, and program activity. In each case, they worked successfully around the obstacles.
The project will serve future generations well. Each year thousands of people visit The Landing. A vital component of the programs are the artifacts. The artifacts range from large pieces of furniture, to cooking implements, to children's toys. The artifacts and interpreters "transport" the guests to another time. As visitors experience and observe daily chores, they make comparisons to their own daily lives; a perspective which is an essential feature of the The Landing programs.
In order to continue their programs, it is vital the artifacts are properly cared for so that the artifact collection at The Landing will continue to support the living history programs for generations to come.
(b) Statewide Historic and Cultural Grants. (i) $2,250,000 in 2010 and $4,500,000 in 2011 are appropriated for history programs and projects operated or conducted by or through local, county, regional or other historical or cultural organizations; or for activities to preserve significant historic and cultural resources. Funds are to be distributed through a competitive grants process. The Minnesota Historical Society shall administer these funds using established grants mechanisms, and with assistance from the advisory committee created herein.