By Kayla Ratliff-Matlock
Last week, a heartfelt ceremony took place as the Peace Officers Museum was officially rededicated as the Sheriff Leslie Cotten Peace Officer Museum.
Hosted by the Navarro County Historical Society at Pioneer Village, the event celebrated the enduring legacy of Sheriff Leslie Cotten, a dedicated law enforcement officer and a cherished member of the Navarro County community.
The ceremony began with an opening speech that set the tone for the occasion. It highlighted the significance of the name change, emphasizing Sheriff Cotten’s unwavering commitment to the community.
As a prominent supporter of the history of Navarro County local initiatives and a beloved figure in law enforcement, Cotten was instrumental in establishing the museum years ago. His vision was clear: to create a tribute to the men and women dedicated to making Navarro County a safer place to live.
Lewis Taylor, a long-time friend and colleague of Sheriff Cotten, blessed the building and spoke passionately about the impact Cotten had on both the community and his life.
Sharing stories from their nearly fifty years of working together in Navarro County law enforcement, Taylor reflected on Cotten’s exceptional leadership and the guidance he provided to the community. He recounted fond memories that underscored the strong bond they shared, emphasizing how Cotten’s integrity and commitment fostered trust and respect among his peers and the community.
Following Taylor, retired Navarro County Chief Deputy Mike Cox, took the stage, humorously apologizing for his report-like delivery, a testament to his 40-plus years in law enforcement writing. Cox recounted a harrowing incident during their patrol when Sheriff Cotten was shot.
Fortunately, the bullet missed vital organs, and Cotten returned to work the next day carrying a .357 Magnum instead of his usual .38. Cox shared a gripping tale of a violent protest they faced together, where they found themselves surrounded and in danger. In a moment of serendipity, a former arrestee, whom they had previously encountered, came to their aid, demonstrating the profound connection between law enforcement and the community they serve.
Faith Boyd, who spoke next, shared her own heartfelt memories of Sheriff Cotten, describing him as the first person to welcome her into the law enforcement family. She emphasized his integrity, honesty, and the friendships he forged throughout his career. Boyd humorously noted that if someone didn’t like Les Cotten, “something was wrong with you,” encapsulating the widespread affection and respect he garnered throughout his life and career.
As the ceremony concluded, the Cotten family was given the first opportunity to view the museum, which now features a dedicated space showcasing Sheriff Cotten’s photo. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and camaraderie as guests congratulated the family and shared their own stories of admiration for the late sheriff.
Photos from this dedication can be viewed on The NavCo Chronicle’s Facebook Page.