This month, the Wicoff House Museum is proud to host a one-month loan of Lenape artifacts from the New Jersey State Museum; a special collaboration in support of our Junior Archivists program.

The Junior Archivists, a hands-on history program created by the Wicoff House Museum for children ages 9 to 11, are currently working on an exhibit about the Lenape people in Plainsboro. To help bring their project to life, the State Museum agreed to loan several authentic Lenape artifacts, providing our young historians with real-world inspiration and connection to the past.

Behind the scenes, the loan process was detailed. Museum staff submitted a formal request outlining the purpose of the loan and how the artifacts would be protected. Curators reviewed the proposal, documented each item’s condition, and legal agreements and insurance were arranged. The Wicoff House Museum also met strict standards for climate control, lighting, and security.

Once approved, the artifacts will be carefully packed and transported by trained professionals. While on display, we will continue to monitor them daily to ensure their safety and preservation.

At the end of the month, the artifacts will return to the New Jersey State Museum—but their impact will stay with our Junior Archivists and the community they’re helping educate.