Cotton Chronology 1870-1889

This exhibit offers the second section of a logbook of primary records chronicling the life of Benjamin Allen Cotton (1827-1908), a 19th century blackface minstrel. The bulk of the entries reference what were then contemporary materials documenting his performance career - a career spanning 60 years between 1845 and 1905.  

These materials referenced, or displayed, include state and federal census data, vital statistics, marine passenger manifests, town directories, and military records. 

To access the full log for any particular year(s), click the link "Cotton Chronology" that appears in red at the top of the individual pages.

Credits

Eric Metcalf