Statement on the Stewardship of Collections
The American Alliance of Museums defines Stewardship as the “careful, sound and responsible management of that which is entrusted to a museum’s care.”
The Collections of the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum are vital to the mission and success of the museum. The TRHFM and the City of Waco hold these important collections for the people of the State of Texas and assume responsibility for ensuring that the historically significant artifacts and archives are secured in perpetuity for future generations.
Statement on Collecting Policies and Activities
The purpose of the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum is to collect, preserve and interpret the lives, work and activities of the Texas Rangers from their formation in 1823 to the present. Additionally, the Museum collects artifacts and archives related to the allies and adversaries of the Texas Rangers, as well as artifacts and archives related to the American West and culture developed around the Texas Rangers.
In accordance with the mission of the TRHFM, the Museum maintains the following collections:
Permanent Collection
The Permanent Collection includes artifacts, archives and related items that are formally accessioned, documented and cataloged into the museum’s collections. Artifacts and archival items are of historic, cultural or artistic significance that represent the inherent goals of the mission of the TRHFM. These collections are used for exhibits and research and include the following sub-categories: Texas Ranger Collection, Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum Collection, General Weapons Collection, Art Collection, Commemoratives/Replicas Collection, Popular Culture Collection, Archive Collection, Library Collection and Photograph Collection. These items are owned by the TRHFM as a department of the City of Waco and are held for the citizens of the State of Texas. These collections are given the highest level of care and protection.
Education Collection
The Education Collection includes artifacts and other related items that are used for interpretation, participatory exhibition and educational programs. These objects are owned by the TRHFM as a department of the City of Waco. They are NOT formally accessioned, but are cataloged into the database system. These objects are given all reasonable care and are viewed as important to the mission of the Museum. They are assigned to and housed in the Education Department of the Museum for use and are inventoried by the Education Coordinator. In the event of damage or destruction beyond the point of usefulness, they are removed from the collections database system and disposed of appropriately.