COLUMBUS, Texas — Not far from Interstate 10, east of San Antonio, the town of Columbus celebrates Santa. The Santa Claus Museum began more than 30 years ago when resident Mary Elizabeth Hopkins' family donated her Santa collection.

"Unfortunately it came to us upon her death. But we have certainly benefited. They wanted to keep the collection together," said museum volunteer Charlotte Tilotta. 

The Hopkins collection includes Santa Claus figures and figurines of all shapes and sizes. 

"Of course we have Santas from Duncan Royal.  We have Coca-Cola Santas. We have Santas from Neiman Marcus. We have Santas made out of cloth. We have Santas made out of wood. We have Santas made out of fine china," said Tilotta.

There's one doll on display that helped kick-start the entire collection.

"So, Ms. Hopkins' first Santa was given to her when she was 6 months old in 1913. She played with it so it has been repaired," said Tilotta.

Other people in the community have donated their collections, too. The building currently houses at least 5,000 Santas. The museum converted a storeroom and garage to make room for all the extra collectibles.

"We are starting a display case of locals who have one or two (Santas) who want to pass on to share with us," said Tilotta.

Her Christmas wish is to keep the museum running for a long time to come. But even the jolly old elf has his limits.

Reporter: "What happens when you run out of room for Santa?" 

Tilotta: "We're done!"