Robert Cotton was born in 1925 in Nowata, Oklahoma. His family had been long-time residents of that area. Cotton's father told his son stories and tales of the region's outlaws, lawmen and Native Americans, sparking an interest in the younger Cotton that remained with him throughout his life. As a youngster he began collecting and saving artifacts, stories and memorabilia. After living in various locations in Oklahoma and Kansas, Cotton finally settled in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. Working as a butcher as well as being a husband and father of two children occupied most of his time. Yet it seemed he always managed to find a few moments at the end of the day to correspond with collectors, seek out new acquaintances or treasures, or perhaps read yet another work on western or regional history. Cotton was widely recognized for his knowledge of local history, cowboy life, "Western" movies, and circuses. He passed away in Bartlesville in 1988.
From the description of Collection, 1899-1990 (bulk 1950-1980). (Oklahoma State University Library). WorldCat record id: 41878329
