Recommendations

It is suggested that the Fort Museum is thoroughly upgraded to become a major attraction.

New air tight display cases will be needed as well as podiums, and a full register of items.

The Museum could link to a possible information centre at a refurbished Governor’s House (see pages 29-30).

The Museum needs to give a full overview of the history, occupations and geography of Tranquebar as well as of populations, crafts and nature through exhibited items. Humidity proof photostats and plastic maps will be needed (no original documents, or paper copies, should be on display).

Notably the Museum should also exhibit traditional fishing boats, agricultural tools, religious items, pottery and other artefacts and tools as typical for the town and area.

Texts should be short and clear and describe the items displayed, while displays should follow a logical order.

The Museum should function as a sales outlet for post cards, T-shirts, guide books, posters and quality souvenirs.

The Dansborg Fort Tower should be opened to the public, for a view of the beach and town.

The Fort yard (see photo page 12) should be used for festivals, and as a sales area with stalls during weekends and festivals.

The yard could well contain a small number of sales outlets for private shops, built as non- permanent structures such as seen in many Indian temples and Muslim and Christian places of pilgrimage. Care should be taken to give preference to local traders, primarily from disadvantaged groups.

Also at least one female museum attendant should be employed. Women play a significant role in Tamil Nadu administration, culture and commerce.

It is further suggested that male museum attendants should wear copies of Tranquebar Danish uniforms to conform with the historical role of the Fort.