harness storage

Does anyone have any suggestions for how to conserve and store a harness? Any practical suggestions would be welcome. I am dealing with some very large team harnesses which were packed in plastic bags and boxes for years. Some of the metal parts are rusting; there is some white residue (mold/mildew?) on some of the leather surfaces; long leather pieces like reins etc. are bent from being folded and crumpled in the enclosures. I have hung the large team harnesses from a high bar in hopes that gravity may help to straighten the leather back toward a more presentable condition; I am considering use of saddle soap to clean and soften the leather. I have the harnesses in a relatively controlled environment where I can monitor humidity/temperature and insect activity; I can also, to some extent, modify the environment in this enclosed area. Would appreciate insight/advice from someone who has experience with this type of object. Should I attempt to hang the harness as though it was on a horse (not even sure how I would do this but . . . ) or is it OK to let it hang vertically from the metal pieces, or would it be better to lay it out on a long shelf? I have limited resources, trying to find a practical solution. I can only check in on

Thanks!!! - Rebecca Snetselaar, Curator of Collections, Mendocino County Museum, Willits, California

I would also like some information, as we have a side saddle that is in need of treatment. Actually, it needs a bit more than that because before we got it it seems to have received the attention of some mice. It's stuffed with straw.I'd like to display it, but can't reasonably in present condition. Bill Clarke Restigouche REgional Museum Dalhousise, N.B. Canada

Both should try the web site www.iilg.org . This is the site for a leatherworkers guild., they make and restore all types of leather goods. Cliff

Try the Leather Conservation Centre in Northampton UK

Nene College Campus Boughton Green Road Northampton NN2 7AN

CC No: 276485. Tel: 01604 719766