What is “Top 10” all about? VOTE NOW, VOTE OFTEN
The “Top 10” program raises awareness about the need for collections care while showcasing the importance of Virginia’s diverse history, heritage, and art and the role that objects play in telling those stories. From letters and books, to furniture and trains, items held in the care of collecting institutions are significant to telling the stories of our local communities, state, as well as the nation.
The endangered artifacts designation offers collecting institutions across the Commonwealth of Virginia and the District of Columbia the opportunity to share their significant stories while building awareness of the threats and expense they face in serving as stewards of their collections. The public and supporters of the participating institutions are invited to cast their votes online during the month of August for their favorite objects from the nominated list. While online voting doesn’t determine the final honorees, a “People’s Choice” designation is presented to the top vote-getters, and those impressive voting numbers are important ammunition for courting donors and applying for conservation funding! The final “Top 10” honorees for 2013 will be selected by an independent panel of conservators and collections care professionals and announced in mid-September.
Wilton’s Nomination
This beautiful pair of late 18th century, early 19th century white satin shoes were a treasured heirloom of the Madison Family and now a treasure of Wilton House Museum. Owned by Sally Catlett Madison Macon (August 17, 1764-1843), sister of President James Madison, they are noted as being worn by her on her wedding day when she married Thomas Macon in 1803. Conservation concerns include lack of stabilization and continued deterioration of the fabric.
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