Artifact Restoration

The Detroit Historical Society’s Collections and Archives are filled with 200,000 artifacts from throughout our region’s 300-year history. Many of these artifacts are donated to us in prime condition and we are able to preserve them through our archival process and preservation efforts. Other artifacts are donated to us and are in need of restoration in order to bring them back to their original beauty.

Although the Society has ongoing conservation efforts, we need the help of the community in order to completely restore and preserve some artifacts. If you would like to help the Society restore an artifact, please see below for the easy two-step process. It’s a great way to have an immediate impact on preserving Detroit’s history.

Step 1:
Select one of the artifacts listed below

Step 2:
Complete the artifact selection form and return it to the Society.

Artifacts:
1936 Ford Phaeton
This vehicle needs some minor restoration by a trained automobile conservator. The chrome on the window post is peeling and tarnished and the paint job has several flaws. Some corrosion on much of the grille and exhaust manifolds. The interior is intact but some mold has set in on the seats. Help us restore this amazing automobile to her former glory!

Painting:
Artist: R. Hopkin
Title: Old Dredge on the Rouge River
This is an oil on canvas painting which has sustained a good deal of damage to the canvas and has been disfigured by the build-up of resin on the varnish. There are drip marks on the painting and abrasions on the canvas. Restoration and conservation are needed immediately.

Maritime Painting:
Artist: Unknown
Title: City of Detroit III
This is an oil painting on copper or tin alloy. The painting is somewhat disfigured and moderately damaged. The paint is thin and there are resin drip marks. An intensive restoration is necessary to return this painting to its former glory!

If you are interested in other artifacts or have questions, feel free to contact Tracy Irwin, Director of Exhibitions and Programs at 313.833.1405 or tracyi@detroithistorical.org.