How to Donate

How to Donate

To donate, please email a brief description of the items to be donated and attach high-quality photos. An in-person consultation will follow if deemed necessary. Following the initial consultation, the Director will evaluate the item’s condition, style, authenticity, rarity, and/or storage requirements to determine whether the donation will be accepted as a whole or part. Please include a contact name, phone number, and email for future correspondence.

Any supportive documents (e.g., photographs, letters, ephemera such as original price tags, etc.) detailing the personal history of donated materials should be provided.

All items donated will be considered “on loan” for two weeks or until all forms and documentation are submitted. If the documentation is not provided within this period, the Director may request that the items be returned to the donor.

Interested in donating or have questions? Please reach out to us at TXMD-HCC@mtsu.edu or 615-898-2884.

TXMD Historic Costume Collection Donation Guidelines

Items Collected (EX)

• Items that are rare/unique, OR items that are iconic to cultural eras and regions.
• Garments and accessories withdamages that do not affect structural integrity: Holes and tears are minimal in number, small, and not located at key supportive seams.
• Fabric is stable, not disintegrating, cracking, or ‘melting.’
• Straps, waistbands, elastics, and laces are intact enough to support the garment when hung on a hanger or fitted to a form/mannequin.
• Beading, embroidery, appliqué, and other decorative elements are still attached, sewn, or adhered to the garment.
• Most buttons and closures are intact. Missing closures that are not prominent decorative elements should not affect the garment’s ability to close properly.
• Hats and shoes hold their original shape.
• Items in pairs or part of a complete ensemble must include all parts (e.g., shoes, earrings, dresses with matching slips).
• Minimal Soiling, discoloration, and sun fading.
• Items must not have toxic materials such as arsenic, lead, etc.
• Items must not be scented with mold, rust, excessive dirt, droppings, or pests.
• Stains are minimal in number and minor in size and are in areas that do not detract from the garment.
• Metals in fabrics, closures, and accessories are stable and not corroded or rusting.

Items Not Collected (EX)

• Flat textiles, such as quilts, curtains, blankets, etc.
• Items made with real fur.
• Duplicates of items already in the collection, unless they provide significant historical value (The Director will determine this).
• Fragments or pieces of garments that have been unsewn or detached due to deterioration.