Artifact Preservation

PROTECTING THE REAL THINGS

Artifact preservation is at the heart of what the Russian River Historical Society does—because once photographs fade, paper becomes brittle, and objects are lost or discarded, the physical evidence of local history can’t be replaced. We work to safeguard items that tell the Russian River’s story, from early maps, letters, and business records to resort ephemera, tools, uniforms, and everyday household pieces that show how people lived and worked here. Preservation includes careful handling and storage, basic conservation practices, clear labeling and cataloging, and—whenever possible—digitizing materials so they can be shared without putting fragile originals at risk.