Donate to the Collections

Thank you for your interest in donating to Cape Fear Museum. Every year, new artifacts and images are added to the collection through the generosity of individuals. These donations help us fulfill our mission.

Cape Fear Museum’s Mission

Cape Fear Museum collects, preserves and interprets objects relating to the history, science and cultures of the Lower Cape Fear region.

Examples of what we wish to collect - cotton masks made locally during coronavirus pandemic.

COVID Masks

WHAT IS YOUR COVID-19 STORY?

We preserve artifacts from past generations for people today to learn from, and we know that future generations will want to learn about what is happening today. The current coronavirus epidemic will be an important aspect of our history. We are seeking objects, photographs and documents that show the numerous aspects of the pandemic and its effects on the lives of people in the Lower Cape Fear. Read this document to learn more about what and how to donate.

Collecting Scope

The main criteria for accepting an object or image into our permanent collection is if it was made or used in the Lower Cape Fear. Thus, the collection represents all aspects of life in the region. The region is defined as a 50-mile radius from Wilmington, which includes all of New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender counties, and parts of Columbus, Bladen, Sampson, Duplin and Onslow counties.

CFM primarily collects three-dimensional objects. It also collects two-dimensional objects of a visual nature that can be exhibited, such as photographs and drawings. Two-dimensional objects that are not visual in nature – such as letters, newspapers, bills, invoices, etc. – are more useful as a research tool and are referred to the Local History Room of the New Hanover County Public Library.

How to Donate

Due to the volume of offers we cannot accept donations through the mail or by unannounced walk-ins. We request prior communication. If you have objects or images that you think would complement our collection, please complete this form and send to our curator:

Heather Yenco, Curator
Cape Fear Museum
814 Market Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
910-798-4359
hyenco@nhcgov.com

For more information, please go to our Frequently Asked Questions page.