I fervently agree with Bruce Grimes posting yesterday: "Give it to
a younger AMICAn!"  A couple years ago I put a provision in my will
that an unrelated person of my choosing will inherit my collection
based on their interest and commitment.  I have found that person
so I am quite content that my collection will be cared for and
appreciated.

One of the reasons I am doing this is due to the fact that over the
years a few collectors and retired technicians have passed items,
tools, or materials to me, giving me a great deal of support in my
endeavors.

Back in my college days I worked with a person that was connected
with the Henry Ford Museum.  At one point I was taken into the
warehouse where "donations" were kept -- a place not unlike the
closing scene of "Indiana Jones".

I was astounded to see Edison Home and Standard phonographs and
Regina and Swiss music boxes stacked high and deep like cordwood.
I asked why they couldn't just sell these more common pieces.
I was told at the time that there was legal complications.  That's
where I left it.

I am sure that the people who donated these items thought their
phonograph or music box was something special.  I think passing an
item to an individual that will love, appreciate and _share_ it
with others is a much better alternative to the above scenario.

Brian Thornton
Woodbury, Tennessee