Rogers Aston (1918-1999 Roswell, NM) was an independent oil producer, rancher, sculptor, and philanthropist. He developed a keen interest in the West during time spent on his family’s various New Mexico ranches. When nearly forty, Aston began casting bronzes, using his collection as prop material for the creation of sculptures portraying poignant moments in the history of the American West. Noted western artist Tom Lovell, a mentor to Aston, commented, “Devotion to detail and fidelity to character are his hallmarks. One may be certain that if a weapon or costume is portrayed, it is correct.” In 1999, Rogers and Mary Ellen Aston bequeathed their collection to the Roswell Museum and Art Center. The Aston Collection of the American West is one of the most popular and historically significant aspects of the Roswell Museum and Art Center’s holdings. One of his most significant sculptures is a life-size Infantryman created for the New Mexico Military Institute.