Lithographs, engravings, carvings, and textiles that are symbolic of the Civil War are threatened by environmental factors and heavy usage. Civil War history preservation efforts are used to restore historical artwork and other items from the past. These efforts are used to prepare items that will be displayed in an exhibit or showcased in a private residence.

Damage And Restoration Efforts

Paper, wood, metal, and other materials that vintage items are made of can become faded or tarnished. High heat and humidity, direct sunlight or artificial light, and the manual handling of items can lead to damage that will devalue an item or make it unsuited for displaying in a museum or a home. A preservation team that deals with historical pieces will use chemical baths, special lighting, and resurfacing agents to restore damaged items.

Civil War items are used to educate people and to commemorate important moments in history. A preservation team uses tested restoration methods that will not affect the quality of a vintage item. The type of ink that is used to print artwork or lettering that is featured on an artifact will be inspected first.

The quality of the ink will indicate which types of restoration materials will need to be used. A trained preservation specialist will use upgrading techniques that will not alter the original design of a Civil War piece. Clothing and other items that are made out of vintage textiles may need to undergo specialized cleaning processes.

Effective Storage

An art gallery dealer, a museum curator, or the owner of a private Civil War collection will need to use effective storage methods that will not compromise the quality of Civil War pieces that have been preserved. A preservation specialist may offer consultations that will provide insight into how to properly store pieces. Pieces that will be on display should be stored in a case that is airtight.

Climate control strategies should be implemented to prevent the room where pieces are on display from getting too hot or too cold. If pieces won't be placed on display, they should be stored in boxes or garment bags that are well-insulated.

Artwork and other single pieces that are going to be stored separately can be secured inside sleeves that are designed to protect historical items from the elements. Historical items should be inspected and cleaned throughout the course of ownership. These strategies will ensure that Civil War memorabilia can continue to be appreciated for many decades to come.

Contact a professional to learn more about Civil War history preservation. 

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