Collections and Research

Due to the volume of offers we receive, we cannot accept donated materials through the mail without prior communication.

If you have artifacts that you believe will enhance the Detroit Historical Society’s collection, please contact the Curator of Collections at 313.297.8391 to discuss the donation.

Frequently Asked Questions!

Does the Detroit Historical Society do appraisals and will they appraise my donation for monetary value?
The Society does not provide appraisals for any reason because the Internal Revenue Service regards museums and libraries as interested parties.
However, professional appraisers do perform this service for a fee. To find a licensed appraiser in your area, contact the American Society of Appraisers, the International Society of Appraisers, or the Appraisers Association of America for a referral.

Can I receive a tax deduction for my donation?
We are unable to provide tax credit for material donations to our collection.

How are potential donations received?
Donation offers are reviewed by the Society Collections Committee. The Committee is made up of staff and local historians knowledgeable about both the scope of our existing collection as well as the conservation issues associated with artifact care. The Curator of Collections sends out a letter of acceptance after the artifact has been reviewed; this process can take from one to three months.

Does the Detroit Historical Society accept long-term loans?
The Society does not accept long-term loans unless an exhibit requires such an artifact. The Society often accepts short term loans for specific exhibits or programs; we prefer to commit our resources to the storage and preservation of materials in the collection.

If I donate an artifact to the Detroit Historical Society, will it be returned to me at my request?
After an artifact is accessioned and becomes a part of the Detroit Historical Society collection, it cannot be returned to the donor. Once the Collections Committee accepts your donation for the collection, your Deed of Gift form legally transfers ownership of the artifact to the Society.