Do you have an old item lying around that you've always wondered what it was?
Due to the variety of interests of our staff members, we stand a fair chance of helping you identify that old button, that strange sword, that mysterious photograph, that piece off something else that your aunt gave you, or that thing grandfather had rolling around in that drawer for years. We are well-versed in firearms from the 18th century through WWII, as well as any sort of piece of uniform or military equipment likely to have been worn or brought back as souvenirs by American soldiers. From Sake cups to button boards, shoelaces to cap insignia, we know a little about a lot of things, and a whole lot about a few things. Glass bottles, tools, flags, clothing, toys, ceramics, Native American artifacts, strange rocks, or bits of metal you found in a field; whatever it is, bring it in and we’ll take a crack at it. If we don’t know what it is, we will try to identify it with some of our reference works and online resources. The one thing we can’t tell you is what an item is worth, but we can show you where you can get a good idea of the value other people give it. We can even provide you with some tips on how to best store or care for some of these artifacts. We also want to see your artifacts “raw” – that is, uncleaned. Improper cleaning can destroy value or remove labels or markings that may help identify the artifact. We don’t mind dirt, cobwebs, rust, or odd smells. Bring one item or a trunk full. We are always open to donations, too, if your artifact would help us tell the story of the Civil War as it relates to Eastern North Carolina.
If you have any questions, please email Dave at
ZGF2aWQgISBzdG9uZSB8IGRuY3IgISBuYyAhIGdvdg== or call 252-526-9600, ext. 221.
Also check out other Nonprofit events in Kinston.
