MEEKER | In the age of fast fashion and fleeting trends, there’s something timeless and comforting about vintage and antique items. However, we know how easy it is to amass more things than we have room for or can keep on display to enjoy. Instead of keeping those treasures boxed up in the attic or stuffed in a closet, you give them a new home while supporting a good cause.
“Many individuals and families have heirlooms and collectibles that are meaningful to them, and they are difficult to part with. We have emotional attachment to many things we keep. Some how it is easier to donate something when you know it will be honored, appreciated and displayed in a pleasing manner with the proceeds supporting a cause we care about,” said proprietor Christy Borchard.
There are stores within the Heritage in downtown Meeker, and the latest addition is The Museum Store, containing antique and vintage-style items that have been donated for sale.
The Museum Store is part of the Rio Blanco Historical Society and all of the items donated are owned by them. Ashleigh Christie’s has specific space that has been provided for their Museum Store, and the staff of Ashleigh Christie’s will assist by accepting items and selling items on their behalf. The proceeds from the sale will convey to RBCHS. All purchased items will be documented on a receipt with the donor’s name and address. A copy will be provided to the donor and a copy will be received by the RBCHS.
The store is seeking donations that complement its goal of featuring antiques, collectibles and decorative items in unique displays, honoring the “gifts” that are made by supporters of The White River Museum and Rio Blanco Historical Society.
Acceptable items for donations include, but are not limited to: jewelry, antiques, collectibles, vintage or country decorative items, art, glassware, chinaware, wooden furniture and lamps. No clothing will be accepted and the store can only handle a few items at a time to process. Once the item is donated it is the property of RBCHS to be used or sold. Certain items of historical significance may be retained by RBCHS for display purposes.
Donating vintage and antique items to a museum can also have tax benefits. In order to receive the tax deduction, the donor must itemize on their tax return. The donor places the “fair market value” on the item you donate. Fair Market Value is typically the price at which property would be sold in a similar store or online. Sometimes looking at online sources is a good way to establish the FMV. The IRS also has a publication (561 Determining the Value of Donated Property) that can be of assistance. If an item is valued over $5,000 it must be appraised by a qualified appraiser.
In conclusion, if you have vintage or antique items gathering dust in your attic or basement, consider donating them to the Museum Store. Not only will you be decluttering your space and preserving history, but you’ll also be supporting a vital community institution.
HT Staff
