Established 200 years ago in a European capital, at the instigation of a famed historical figure, it was apparently the first of its kind in the world. Still in operation, it now boasts a vast warehouse and a "cabinet of curiosities" that includes human skulls, a violin, a saber, a wooden leg, and wedding dresses. What is it and who gave the order for its founding?

peasypod

Wondering, (yep, another stab) if you are talking about the British Museum in London? I recall Hans Sloane (I think) was a collector of some sort and wanted his 'oddities' left to King George II, who established the Museum with his antiquitites. Hang a sec and I'll see if I can find a link, that suits. May 23 05, 8:02 PM

lanfranco

Not quite, peasy. You might ask robboy. He should have a special interest in this question. May 23 05, 8:05 PM

peasypod

Well, I found that Senor Sloane and his 'Nicknackatory' were part of the British Museum history but I don't see any signs of a wedding dress et al, so I guess I'm on the wrong track here.. May 23 05, 8:06 PM

peasypod

Funny you should say that, I just found out that Sloane was schmoozing with Oglethorpe for a bit there too... I'll keep looking, but no doubt robboy will roll the answer off the tip of his tongue. http://www.fathom.com/course/21701728/session1.html May 23 05, 8:09 PM

peasypod

....but I'm also guessing you weren't referring to Georgia but to robboys' Napoleon loving pals? May 23 05, 8:11 PM

gmackematix

Funny how the French say found property and we say lost property. http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,3-1611081,00.html May 23 05, 8:14 PM

lanfranco

Brilliant, gmack. Yes, it is the Paris Lost and Found Office, originally set up on the Ile de la Cite, under orders from Napoleon. Though God only knows, peasy, what's in the basement of the British Museum these days. Possibly the bones of many lost scholars. I wouldn't be at all surprised. May 23 05, 8:31 PM

robboy

I found all those lost collars in my latest move. May 24 05, 6:45 AM

lanfranco

An old-fashioned kind of guy, aren't you, robboy? I should have known. (Vive l'empereur!) May 24 05, 8:17 AM

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