As Hershey Museum transforms into The Hershey Story, it is also refining its permanent collection. The collection currently contains approximately 22,000 artifacts, which is divided into three main collections: the Native American collection, the Pennsylvania German collection and the Hershey collection. Each of these collections comprises 4%, 12% and 38% respectively. The remaining 46% of the Museum’s holdings are not Hershey-related and were not acquired by Mr. Hershey.

Hershey Museum routinely evaluates artifacts in its collection for appropriateness to its mission and vision, as well as exhibit and educational programming goals. After careful consideration, the Museum will be removing a portion of unrelated items, including military artifacts, furniture and textiles from its permanent collection.

It is preferred to sell, exchange or donate removed items to another museum or cultural institution as dictated by standard museum practice. The benefit is that artifacts remain in the public trust where they are used in exhibitions and educational programs and are available for research. For example, military items currently in Hershey Museum’s collection could be sold or donated to a museum that focuses on military history. Only as a last resort will items be sold at public auction. Funds from such auctions are restricted in that they may only be used to acquire new items for the permanent collection or for direct collections care. Funds cannot be used for general operating support, staff salaries or capital expenses.

The Museum does not take this action lightly and only after careful consideration of appropriateness and condition, and with Board approval will any item be removed from the collection. The Native American and Pennsylvania German collections acquired by Mr. Hershey will be housed and maintained at The Hershey Story. These collections will be used in upcoming special exhibits, available to qualified researchers and lent to other museums and cultural institutions. Artifacts from the Museum’s collection are currently on loan to the Hershey-Derry Township Historical Society, The State Museum of Pennsylvania, the Susquehanna Art Museum, and the Historic Manheim Preservation Foundation.