Founded in 1960, the Tennessee Association of Museums (TAM) fosters communication and cooperation between museums, cultural societies, and other members on matters of common interest to all. TAM's goal is to inform the public on the importance of understanding and preserving Tennessee's cultural, historical, and scientific heritage. TAM also encourages publication and dissemination of information on the state's past as well as the development of professional standards of members who bring that past to the public.