Hello Peggy,
When we converted all our lighting to LED, we added some emergency lighting. We used some very simple, small, and inexpensive LED units such as these https://www.1000bulbs.com/product/111322/EM-FHEM10W.html
You'll naturally want to hide them, one suggestion is to let them shine through sheer curtains or other such. They're pretty small so you can use your imagination to put them where they won't be too obvious. One thing you'll have to have is a source of electricity that is not switched (constant hot) so that the lights can charge, and of course, so they'll know when the power is out.
You might consider contacting your local fire department for guidance (or not!).
Good luck. While historic accuracy and aesthetics are important, safety is still job #1.
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Curtis Morris
Exhibits Manager
Shiloh Museum of Ozark History
Springdale AR
Original Message:
Sent: 08-11-2016 02:41 PM
From: Peggy Derrick
Subject: Emergency lighting in house museums
Hello All,
I am wondering what solutions for emergency lighting are being used in other house museums. With thunderstorm weather coinciding with our busiest season, it's all too easy for me to picture a group of (elderly) visitors getting caught on the second floor of our ca. 1900 home when the power gets knocked out.
Of course I am hoping for a solution that is inobtrusive, dependable and cheap. I would be grateful for any information on what is working (or not) for others with historic homes.
Sincerely,
Peggy Derrick, Curator
La Crosse County Historical Society
145 West Ave. S., La Crosse WI 54601
Main Offices 608-782-1980
Cell 608-799-0033