A month ago, a conservator visited the park to assess restoration of such items. There is no reason to proceed on this because the environment would not support the restoration. Paul told us that there will be major deterioration in the textile collection over the next 30-40 years. It is a small, narrow room with a high ceiling. But the walls are not sealed and fine, abrasive concrete dust continues to fall on the swords and cavalry implements.
Muslin covers most of the collection.
They use standard museum cabinets but the outside environment is slowing seeping into them. The problem is the steel and wood expand and contract at different rates. Flaking rust, parts that freeze and metal that crystallizes are their biggest enemies. Paul showed us a restored rifle and one that has not been. They are placed in plastic zip lock bags, inventories are taken and then they are placed in acid-free boxes.