Museum Collection Policy

The Monterey Pass Battlefield Museum houses the collection of artifacts that were found or are related to the battle of Monterey Pass and the American Civil War. The museum features five galleries that interpret the Confederate invasion of Pennsylvania that occurred on June 15, 1863, the battle of Monterey Pass, and the Confederate retreat. Museum panels tell the story not only of the battle of Monterey Pass, but the impact that the 1863 Pennsylvania Campaign had on Washington Township and the people of Franklin County, Pennsylvania.

Much of our collection was donated by individuals who live in the area. Our collection consists of uniforms, weaponry, accoutrements, and personal items that would be used by the Civil War soldier. In our collection, we also have a period dress and bonnet. Each piece tells its own story, however, it also tells the story of Washington Township, Franklin County, Pennsylvania, and the battle of Monterey Pass. 

What  is the procedure for donating artifacts or documents to the Monterey Pass Battlefield Museum?

Drop off your items at Washington Township or mail them to: Friends of the Monterey Pass Battlefield, Inc. 13013 Welty Road Waynesboro, PA 17268

What types of items is the Friends of the Monterey Pass Battlefield, Inc. looking for?

Authentic Civil War Era Artifacts (both civilian & military) associated with: The Battle of Monterey Pass The Pennsylvania Campaign of 1863 Military and/or civilian life during this time period Other unique artifacts from this period Items to Include: Clothing, Photographs, Uniforms, Military-Style Weapons, and Equipment, as well as Tools.

Will the Museum purchase artifacts?

Our museum funding is very limited, so we rely heavily on donated materials and artifacts.

Will the Museum exhibit the artifacts in my donation?

The museum cannot guarantee that any object will go on exhibit. Like most museums, only a small fraction of our collection will be on display at any given time.

Can I take a tax deduction for my donation?

Your contribution is tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law, due to the Friends of the Monterey Pass Battlefield, Inc.'s status as a not-for-profit charitable organization. The fair market value of your donated materials is generally tax deductible. We recommend that you consult your accountant, attorney, or the Internal Revenue Service if you have any questions. If you wish to have your items appraised, please do so before giving them to the museum.

I will make a donation only if I can set certain conditions for my object. Are you still interested?

Our policy is to not accept gifts that come with strings attached. Conditions including, but not limited to, donor recognition and display requirements are not in line with modern museum practices. Many museums find themselves devoting resources trying to adhere to or resolve these types of issues, and we certainly do not wish to create similar problems for our successors.