The Board of Directors of the Central Texas Area Museum in Salado (www.saladoscottishfestival.com) has named Coleman Hampton as Interim Curator for the historic museum. Hampton is a graduate of the Baylor University Department of Museum Studies in Waco.

“Creating the curator’s position is the first step in a revitalization program now underway at the museum,” says Sterling Ambrose, the museum founder’s grandson and a current CTAM Board Member. “The program will include a facelift for our 150-year-old building, an upgrade of the exhibits, and an expansion of museum programs. Visitors and residents can look forward to a new name, new displays, and a variety of events that we hope will become a part of the culture of Salado.”

Joining the many generous supporters of the Friends of the Museum fund-raising campaign (www.gofundme.com/friendsofctam) recently initiated to ensure the continuation of museum programs and events, Ambrose is sponsoring the new curator position and donating his time to lead the museum revitalization effort.

Current museum hours are Thursdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Coleman Hampton recently worked with the Dallas Heritage Village on a massive research project in their archives and collections that culminated in his creation of a mobile app to help enhance visitor experience at the Village. He has also worked with the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, the Mayborn Museum Complex at Baylor, and the Baylor University Institute for Oral History. Hampton holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and a Master’s degree in Museum Studies from Baylor University.

As Interim Curator at the Central Texas Area Museum, Hampton will evaluate and organize the museum’s archives and collections. “This will provide an opportunity for me to become familiar with the local and area history that helped form this great state,” Hampton says. “My long-term goal is to create exhibits and educational opportunities that highlight the rich heritage and history of Salado.”

In discussing the next era for the landmark museum, Ambrose adds, “Our goal is not only to create a better museum, but also to become a welcome center for Salado visitors and residents.” For more information on how to participate in the Friends of the Museum fund-raising campaign, go to www.gofundme.com/friendsofctam.

The Central Texas Area Museum is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 1959 to preserve the pioneer history of Central Texas and its colorful cultural diversity.

The Museum houses artifacts of early frontier days in this region as well as a library of books and papers that document the settlement and heritage of the area.