With support from the community through donations and oral histories, we strive to further learn about and illustrate the History of Martin County and its related surroundings.
Elliott Museum and House of Refuge: As outlined in the Collections Policy of the HSMC, which is in accordance with the American Alliance of Museum’s ethics and best practices for collections management, all donations are considered outright and unconditional gifts to be used at the Museum’s discretion.
Purpose: The Mission of Historical Society of Martin County, (HSMC) is to collect, preserve and share the history of Martin County; to provide fresh, eclectic and relevant exhibitions and engagements for our guests; to assure that our museums are vital, responsive, and agile community gathering places that nurture an environment of collaboration: to serve as a catalyst for economic development, and to continuously earn the honor of being a point of pride for our community.
Museum collections are used for exhibitions, research, and other educational purposes.
Acquisitions/Donations: The Museum follows a policy of selective acquisition. Any Object(s) acquired by whatever means must have a clear connection with and be supportive of the Museum’s Mission. The Museum may acquire Object(s) through gift, donation, and bequest, as well as other lawful means. Restrictions of limited funds, limited space, expense of preservation and conservation, and the Museum’s emphasis upon preservation of its resources make unlimited acquisition unfeasible. Completion and submission of this document by, or on behalf of, the donor(s) confirms that the donor(s) has read the following criteria, agrees to the terms of the donation, and confirms that the Object(s) meets the Museum’s guidelines for acquisition.
- Related to the Museum ’s Mission and its strategic goals
- Related to other Museum Property
- Formerly owned by or related to the Elliott family or by Keepers of the House of Refuge
- Enhance interpretation of the Elliott Museum or the House of Refuge.
- In acceptable condition and of permanent and durable material and construction
- Of established and unquestioned provenance.
- Is within the Museum’s capability to provide adequate conservation, care and maintenance.