“Not one of my children has any recollection of my grandparents. If I want my children and grandchildren to know those who still live in my memory, then I must build the bridge between them. I alone am the link to the generations that stand on either side of me. It is my responsibility to knit their hearts together through love and respect, even though they may never have known each other personally. My grandchildren will have no knowledge of their family’s history if I do nothing to preserve it for them. That which I do not in some way record will be lost at my death, and that which I do not pass on to my posterity, they will never have. The work of gathering and sharing eternal family keepsakes is a personal responsibility. It cannot be passed off or given to another.” -Dennis B. Neuenschwander, “Bridges and Eternal Keepsakes,” Ensign, May 1999, 83
Perhaps you have in your possession a priceless treasure, a keepsake. A collection of family photographs – faded, yellowing, obviously very old. Maybe they are stored in an album, maybe they are loose. Maybe they were given to you by Great Grandma or maybe you found them in a box in the attic. However they came to be in your possession, you know it is important to preserve them for your children and grandchildren.
Yes, we live in a day where we can make copies of any photo, but nothing compares to the feeling of seeing the original. Someday I hope to give my descendants that same feeling of wonder as they look at original photographs of their ancestors and express wonder that at one time, those very ancestors at which they look, once held that photograph in their hands.
It is best of course, to avoid handling old photographs at all, if possible. But if they have not been properly stored before you come across them, then it will be necessary.
If you have clean white cotton gloves, wear them. As with all photograph’s, hold each one gently by the edges making sure never to touch the surface even if you are wearing gloves. If you don’t have gloves make sure your hands are clean. But remember that oil secretions come even from clean hands. If you need to write identification on the back of the photo, do so very softly using a #2 pencil.
If you plan to frame any of the photos, place them where they will not come into contact with direct sunlight as it will fade the photo over time. Make sure the room is not too humid, as this may encourage mildew or mold growth, and make sure the room is not too dry as this may cause brittleness and breakage. Don’t use wooden frames because they emit vapors that will affect the photograph over time. And don’t use any plastic photo holders if they are made of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). Polyethylene is ok.
Or acid could be affecting the photo if it is found in the backing on which the photo is placed. Acid affected photos are usually discolored or darkened. It is possible to neutralize the acid to prevent further deterioration but it is best to give that job to a professional.
Until such a measure can be taken, be sure to store photos properly. This includes the above mentioned temperature precautions. Also, keep photos away from any materials with acid in them. Acid free and Alkaline Buffered storage boxes, file folders and papers are available at most craft stores.
