Do you have an item you would like to donate to the museum’s collection? The Museum collection is constantly expanding and changing; we are home to artifacts as large as aircraft and jeeps, or as small as individual pilot’s wings. Supporters have also donated objects that tell the story of the everyday lives of local residents during WWII and items that have a connection to NAS Wildwood history. Each of these items plays a role in sharing our story and the story of military aviation, and each helps connect people with the personal experiences of those who fought for our country.

We do, however, have limited space in which to display, store, and care for items that are donated to the Museum, so we must be selective with the items that we add to the collection. The Museum collects artifacts & materials that represent the history of Naval Air Station Wildwood, southern New Jersey’s war & homefront effort, the surrounding community, and the post-war history of Historic Hangar #1. 

The museum is also seeking materials related to military aviation from aircraft, to vehicles, an aviator’s wings, or your personal accounts with items in our collection. This assists us in educating museum guests. Museum staff are currently working to expand our women in the military exhibits. There is also a need for display cases for a variety of exhibits.

We cannot accept drop-offs without a prior acceptance and an appointment. Thank you for your consideration.

Following your submission of the form, the Collections staff will carefully consider your offer and compare it to our existing collection. Due to the deliberate nature of the consideration process, it may take several weeks to reach a decision. Should we determine that Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum is not an appropriate repository for your item, we will do our best to help you find the right institution to ensure the long-term care and appreciation of your donation.

FAQs

I’m not sure if my object is right for Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum. Should I still fill out the artifact donation form?

Yes! Even if you are unsure, the artifact donation form is a great way to get in contact with us and start the conversation.

Can’t I just mail or drop off a donation to the museum?

No, the museum does not accept unsolicited donations. We cannot accept unsolicited material dropped off at the museum or unsolicited material sent through the mail.  Once a donation offer has been accepted by the Collections Committee, you will be given instructions on how to mail/ship the donation to us. Donations can only be dropped off at the museum front desk after written coordination/confirmation with a museum curator.

Can I bring my artifact to the Museum for donation?

People wishing to donate an artifact to the Museum must fill out the donation form below or contact us via phone (609-886-8787) or email (HangarChet.NASW@Gmail.com). A Collections staff member will follow-up with you about your donation offer. We do not accept drop-off donations and unsolicited, mailed items are highly discouraged.

Does Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum provide appraisals or value estimates for artifacts?

No. The Museum is prohibited by law from appraising any property, even if it has been donated to the Museum. 

Are artifact donations tax-deductible?

Yes. However, the Museum is prohibited by law from appraising any property, even if it has been donated to the Museum. Any appraisals should be completed prior to the donation process.

Do donated artifacts go on display immediately?

Unfortunately, the Museum cannot promise when or if an item will go on display. Only a small percentage of the Museum’s entire collection is on view at any given time. While not on display, items are cared for in storage, made available to researchers, and used for public programs at the Museum. 

Does the Museum accept loaned items rather than donated items?

While we do use artifacts on short-term loan for special exhibitions, the Museum does not accept long-term loans to the collection.

Will donated materials be returned upon request?

The Museum can’t return accessioned materials to the donor. When the deed of gift is signed, ownership of the materials is legally transferred to the Museum.

If you need help or have additional questions, please contact the Museum Curator at 609-886-8787 or HangarChet.NASW@Gmail.com.

Unsolicited donations may be disposed of, returned, or retained at the sole discretion of Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum.