I understand that the B&O museum is a part of the Smithsonian "family". My question is how does the Smithsonian "operate" the museum? Is it just a name blessing, or does the Smithsonian have an active roll in the operation of the B&O museum?

Smokebox

> I understand that the B&O museum is a
> part of the Smithsonian "family".
> My question is how does the Smithsonian
> "operate" the museum? Is it just a
> name blessing, or does the Smithsonian have
> an active roll in the operation of the
> B&O museum?

> Smokebox

The correct answer lies somewhere in between. The B&O Museum retains its independence, but its affiliation with the Smithsonian means that it is eligible to borrow certain artifacts for exhibit, and will loan certain others from time to time. Currently, the boiler of the "Stourbridge Lion" (her sole surving remains), and an exhibit of significant American railroad figures from the National Portrait Gallery are on loan from the Smithsonian to the B&O Museum.

The Smithsonian provides no financial support, nor does the B&O Museum financially support the Smithsonian. The designation gives the B&O Museum a certain "cachet" in the museum community without obligating either party to a financial relationship.


kevingillespie@usa.net

Everything Kevin says is right on, but I'd say it even more firmly to make sure there's no misunderstanding--the B&O and the Smithsonian are completely independent of one another.

The chief things "Smithsonian Affiliate" status gives the B&O is "first right or refusal" on borrowing touring or stored Smithsonian artifacts, and the ability to borrow artifacts without negotiating a new covenant and borrowing agreement each time they do it. And as Kevin says, it also adds a little prestige and lustre.

What the Smithsonian gets out of it is better distribution of its name, and a place to display artifacts that would otherwise be in storage.

It's kind of like a "credit-swapping" arrangmeent between two colleges, where courses taken at one count towards the other's degree program, but with no other ties or mutual obligations between the two schools.

eledbetter@rypn.org

Hello All

From what I understand, Steamtown has recently been given affiliate standing as well. Can anyone out there confirm this?

Dave Crosby

bing@epix.net

> Hello All

> From what I understand, Steamtown has
> recently been given affiliate standing as
> well. Can anyone out there confirm this?

> Dave Crosby

That ought to send Jack White reeling.

pww57@hotmail.com