Robert "Bob" Carlton Wilson Papers

Collection

Identifier: MS-0044

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The collection consists of correspondence, memoranda, proposals for legislation, reports, materials relating to resolutions and debates, surveys, photographs and miscellany.

Dates

Creation: 1953 - 1980

Creator

Wilson, Robert (Wilson, Robert Carlton) (1916-) (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

Access to some records is restricted, please consult with Special Collections & University Archives staff for details. Patrons wishing to use the Robert C. Wilson Papers must sign a "Researcher's Agreement," a copy of which can be obtained from Special Collections & University Archives staff.

Conditions Governing Use

The copyright interests in some or all of these materials have not been transferred to San Diego State University. Copyright resides with the creator(s) of materials contained in the collection or their heirs. The nature of archival collections is such that multiple creators are often applicable and copyright status may be difficult or even impossible to determine. In any case, the user must assume full responsibility for any use of the materials, including but not limited to, obtaining publication rights and copyright infringement. When requesting images from Special Collections & University Archives for publication, we require a signed agreement waiving San Diego State University of any liability in the event of a copyright violation.

Biographical Note

Born in Calexico, Imperial County, California on April 5, 1916, Bob Wilson attended local public schools in Calexico. The Wilson family moved to San Diego, California in 1928. While attending San Diego State College, Wilson worked as a newsboy, grocery clerk, and theater usher. Wilson also attended the Otis Art Institute, working part-time as a milk route salesman, and later as the merchandising manager for a dairy. During WWII, Wilson operated Conship Commissary, served in the Coast Guard Reserve (Port Security Service) and as a private in the United State Army. After the war, Wilson joined an advertising agency in San Diego as a partner and Vice president.

Elected in 1952 as a Republican (83rd Congress) from what was then California's 30th District (all of San Diego City and County), Wilson rose to the position of ranking minority member of the House Armed Services Committee. He also served from 1960-64 as House Republican Election Committee chairman. Wilson was one of the originators of the 1951 California movement that resulted in Dwight Eisenhower's presidential candidacy. He retired in 1980.