Steve Jansen, a long-time Lawrence historian, has been named as curator of the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame in Bonner Springs.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this nationally known institution,” said Jansen, who previously been director and, later, historian of Lawrence’s Watkins Community Museum.

Jansen, who will hold a part-time position at the Ag Hall of Fame, received a doctoral degree from Kansas University in 20th Century U.S. history. He has worked in museums since 1977. He left the Lawrence museum in October.

Cathi Hahner, Ag Hall of Fame director, said the first priority for the new curator will be to develop better and increased signage in the 20,400-square-foot Museum of Farming building.

Other duties for the position include developing and implementing a collection management policy and procedures and to improve exhibits and interpretation in the main building and Farm Town USA.

The Ag Hall of Fame was chartered by Congress in 1962 and sits on 172 acres.