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----- Original Message ----- From: "Colin Schlachta" <[log in to unmask]> > The storage of flat discs and audio CD's has been the topic of late, but I'd > like to raise a question regarding the safe storage of wax cylinders. My > question has to do with the original factory cylinder cases. These cases > have a cotton lining inside to protect the surface of the cylinder. This > may have been the solution in the late 19th century, but is it appropriate > for today? > For instance, I came across a case that had clear stone-like objects stuck > on the inner cotton walls. It turned out to be drips of glue. These drips > of glue probably came from the Edison factory since there are signs of even > more glue at the bottom of the case. (Perhaps the factory worker sneezed > when applying the glue) :-) With these hard particles being in this > container, the surface of this particular wax cylinder is now irreparably > damaged from taking the cylinder out & back in over the years. Fortunately > I have only noticed this one example as I work my way through the 3300 > cylinders in this museum's collection. > > I have also found that the cotton lining particles can get in between the > grooves of a cylinder, and can blend in with dirt or the like. This is a > larger problem regarding brown wax cylinders. > > Can anyone tell me if it is best to store wax cylinders in their original > containers, or is it better to replace them? I know that there is an > archival quality cardboard container that exists, but is this the best > solution? > Another problem that *might* arise with the cotton lining would be that it could, in theory, absorb moisture in humid conditions? Steven C. Barr