FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 7, 2014
The generosity of over 70 individuals and organizations has enabled the Greeley Museums to purchase and preserve a priceless collection of 320 letters written in 1869. These letters were written by individuals from 21 states who wanted to join Nathan Meekers joint-stock colonization company called the Union Colony of Colorado. The company comprised of 737 hand-picked men and women founded the town of Greeley, Colorado in April 1870.
Roger Joyce, retired Wyoming State Archivist, has been hired by the Greeley Museums Heritage Foundation to conserve the letters. He owns and operates R & J Conservation Services and is a Professional Associate with the American Institute of Conservation, specializing in the conservation of paper, books, and photographs.
I am excited to be entrusted with the conservation of this priceless historical collection. I am amazed at the quality and cleanliness of these letters which were saved from destruction by a 12-year old boy in 1935, said Joyce.
As many people may wonder what a conservator does, the Greeley Museums are inviting the public to come and watch how documents are conserved. Visitors are also invited to bring in their own historical artifacts such as books, photographs, documents, maps, scrapbooks, letters and electronic media (VCR tapes, DVDs, and CDs) for advice on how to properly preserve them for future generations to enjoy.
Joyce will be working in residence at the Greeley History Museum, 714 8th Street, from 9am 3pm, every Wednesday in February. Additional dates include: February 13, 20, 21, 27 & 28.
For additional information about the letter conservation project and exhibits and programs offered by the Greeley Museums, please call (970) 350-9220 or visit the website at www.greeleymuseums.com.
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For Immediate Release
For more information, contact:
Dan Perry, Museums Manager
City of Greeley Museums
970-350-9218, [email protected]