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Stagecoaches that carried the first visitors into Yellowstone National Park. Thomas Edison's original recordings. A nearly 40,000 year old fossilized walrus skull. The spoken reminiscences of the Tuskegee Airmen. Handcrafted pottery of the Acoma Pueblo people. National park museums preserve the treasures of our Nation. Throughout the centennial celebration we celebrate the depth and richness of the national park collections. Come back and see what's new!
Early Drawing of Yosemite Falls
early drawing of Yosemite Valley

Early Drawing of Yosemite Falls

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This 1855 drawing by Thomas Ayres, "The High Falls," gave the American public its first glimpse of Yosemite Falls, when published in 1856 in Hutchings' California Magazine. It helped to create an interest in Yosemite Valley that led to its protection. The drawing and the publication are part of the 2.5 million-item museum collection of Yosemite National Park, where the National Park Service museum program began in 1904.


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Ask the Conservator
Caring for the tangible artifacts of our nation's history is the job of a corps of professional curators, archivists, conservators, and museum specialists. Caring for the tangible artifacts of your family's history -- your grandmother's hats or father's baseball trading cards -- may be your job.

'Ask the Conservator' can help you care for your treasured possessions by sharing some of the questions we've been asked.  
Flood Damaged figurines

My home was damaged during a storm. I found some of my porcelain figurines around my property. I saved what I could, but they are caked in dirt, mud, and maybe sewage. Can my collection be saved?

There is a good chance that you can save your porcelain figurines, but there are serious safety precautions to consider. Because the mud and dirt could contain harmful substances, protect yourself first. Wear waterproof and chemical resistant gloves that are resistant to tears. Wear safety goggles to shield your eyes and a mask to protect you from airborne pollutants.

There is a good chance that you can save your porcelain figurines, but there are serious safety precautions to consider. Because the mud and dirt could contain harmful substances, protect yourself first. Wear waterproof and chemical resistant gloves that are resistant to tears. Wear safety goggles to shield your eyes and a mask to protect you from airborne pollutants.

To clean the figurines, you will need a bucket filled with clean water. Work piece by piece. Allow the water to soften the dirt. Gently work it away with your fingertips or a soft bristle brush. Be careful with gilding. It is easily scratched. Once cleaned, pat dry with lint free cloths or allow the object to air dry.

If your porcelain is damaged and elements are missing, consult a conservator. A conservator can provide you with repair options.

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