http://www.indy.com/posts/4396 en-us A_Registrar While it may sound exciting to see all those artifacts that are not on exhibit, the reality is that most of them are stored archivally in boxes or closed cabinets. They are not presented in any context like the items that have been chosen for exhibit. Ultimately, exposing those pieces to repeated viewings with exposure to light and handling will hasten their inevitible deterioration. Museums have ethical responsibilities to give the highest standard of care for the objects they hold in the public trust. Please enjoy the artifacts that the curatorial and exhibit staff members have worked hard to present in the many and varied exhibitions available in the local museums. Wed, 06 Feb 2008 16:41:56 -0500 http://www.indy.com/posts/4396#comment_13304 http://www.indy.com/posts/4396#comment_13304 Deleted_Profile Prairiebear and Frogmajik: If you want to see the 'vaults' of the Indianapolis Art Center you are welcome to call ahead and one of our exhibitions staff would be happy to show you those pieces! Tue, 05 Feb 2008 16:43:52 -0500 http://www.indy.com/posts/4396#comment_13157 http://www.indy.com/posts/4396#comment_13157 amylamb Speaking of hidden treasures, people might also be interested in visiting the Indiana Historical Society. While the majority of its collection items are stored in a "vault," the general public can get an up-close-and-personal look at pieces of history at the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center. Check out the IHS Collections catalog online (www.indianahistory.org, click on "Collections/Library") ahead of time, or have the reference desk at the William Henry Smith Memorial Library help you in person or over the phone. The majority of items are available for viewing--they can bring the item to you in the Sally Reahard Reading Room. From Civil War soldiers' diaries, a bible translated into the Potawatomi Indian language, photographs or other items related to Indiana and the Old Northwest Territory, there are literally millions of items to see. If you're interested in a quick peek at other treasures, there are also original Abraham Lincoln materials on display in the Lanham Gallery on the fourth floor! Tue, 05 Feb 2008 13:20:39 -0500 http://www.indy.com/posts/4396#comment_13100 http://www.indy.com/posts/4396#comment_13100 frogmajik How very cool. I need to get out and see what I can. Hopefully these hidden treasures will be shared with us all to see. Mon, 04 Feb 2008 17:34:35 -0500 http://www.indy.com/posts/4396#comment_12994 http://www.indy.com/posts/4396#comment_12994 prairiebear I would love to have a behind the scenes tour of all of these institutions! How interesting! Mon, 04 Feb 2008 10:15:20 -0500 http://www.indy.com/posts/4396#comment_12911 http://www.indy.com/posts/4396#comment_12911