I voice my support for all of you who might "Pass On Your Knowledge",
as has been recently mentioned.  Much of our knowledge about mechanical
music is an invaluable tool for other collectors and restorers, and it
is especially important to the next generation of collectors, who might
not otherwise even _find_ the information.  There are now _plenty_ of
ways to share -- any one of these suggestions (I'm sure there are
others!) will be a step forward:

1. Get it in print somewhere for free, submitted without even worrying
about editing since these have their own editors: MMD, a trade journal
(MBSI, MBSGB, COAA, AMICA, ROS, FOPS, etc.)

2. Write a book.  It doesn't have to be elaborate; a small book can be
self-published through a reliable printer, and short-run printers can
print or reprint a small book in as few as 25 copies, or for as little
as $10 each.  (If you're interested in this, contact me and I'll share
my positive experience.)

3. Put up a web site.  This is especially useful if you commit to a
permanent site which will remain available forever.  Many web hosts
furnish free tools to make a quick web site if you rent space from
them.  Ask your grandkids for help. <grin>

4. Do a presentation for anybody, anywhere: society chapter meetings,
local clubs and organizations, county fairs and special historic days.
Be inventive.  One day I ran into a band organ playing outside our
grocery store as part of their grand reopening celebration.  Even your
local newspaper will probably be happy to do a human interest story
containing less technical info.  You might need to volunteer, since
they probably don't even know about you!

5. Contribute to somebody else's project.  Why not?

6. Share everything you know with someone _else_ who will do one of the
above.  This works!

Just don't assume that you'll get around to it later, or that someone
else will do it -- Just Do It!

Todd Augsburger - Roller Organs
http://www.rollerorgans.com/