Commission tables loan of Brand collection (historic fans, Edison phonographs) pending exhibit and conservation plans

The Flower Mound Historical Commission voted to table consideration of a loan offer for a private collection of historic fans and 12 Edison phonographs at its Oct. 21 meeting, citing concerns about exhibit space, artifact protection and insurance.

J. P. Walton, staff liaison, described the items as loan candidates submitted by Larry and Linda Brandt and said, if preapproved by council, they would be placed on a preapproved list and the town would then negotiate placement and loan terms with the owners. Walton told the commission that adding items to the preapproved list would not commit the town to a specific exhibit or location; those details would be worked out afterward.

Commissioner Peggy (Peggy Riddle, serving ex officio for Denton County) and other commissioners raised concerns about the size of the phonographs, the small exhibit space in the Gibson Grant Log House, and the need for display enclosures and insurance. Peggy said past experience with a music cabinet that broke after volunteers wound and played it illustrated the need for protective measures and restrictions on handling; she recommended plexiglass enclosures and controlled access for docents. Peggy also estimated some items could be worth “close to $100,000,” noting the town would need to address insurance and security if the items were displayed.

After discussion, a commissioner moved to table the loan items to allow staff and commissioners to develop a plan addressing placement, protection and insurance. The motion passed by roll call. The commission can revisit the loan after the staff and commission subgroups identify secure display options and complete required paperwork.