Donating items to the collection or bringing in items for identification
Please get in touch with us (via phone, email or letter) before bringing in your items to describe what you would like to offer, or what you need help with identifying. Send us a photograph if possible. We cannot accept items unless you have arranged an appointment in advance.
We will reply letting you know if your offer is something we can accept, if we need more information, or to arrange a time for you to bring your item in.
There are a variety of reasons that we may not be able to take your donation. We have a Collections Development Policy that we use when making a decision. A summary of this policy is available to download below.
We do offer an identification service but this may require you to leave the item with us to allow the relevant person to look at it.
A new find donated to the museum
A early Medieval spindle whorl from near Aspatria was brought into the museum recently for identification and donation to the museum's collections. The object was subsequently recorded by Alex Whitlock, Finds Liaison Officer for Cumbria. Alex's assessment of the object can be found on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database (here).
The spindle whorl was deposited in the museum's reserve collection but from 4th September to 20th December can be viewed in the 'Cabinet of Curiosities' temporary exhibition in the museum's Kirby Gallery.
Wednesday 6th December, 12 - 2pm: Fabulous Finds with Alex Whitlock
Alex is the Finds Liaison Officer for the Portable Antiquities Scheme. On Wednesday he will be in the museum for a finds drop-in. If you have any mystery archaeological finds Alex will be here to identify and record them for you, and advise on responsible metal detecting. Includes free admission to the museum.