Mr. Tony Perrin recently donated to the museum an Independence County Deputy Sheriff’s badge, circa early 1900s. When found, the badge was missing the state seal, which was replaced as a professional courtesy by badge manufacturer Irvine & Jachens in San Francisco, California.
Mr. Perrin cited at least five Independence County officers who lost their lives in the line of duty:
Moses Ford, Batesville City Marshal and Constable of Ruddle Township, died December 23, 1871.
Jeff D. Morgan, Independence County Sheriff, died September 15, 1904.
William Everett Wheeler, Independence County Chief Deputy Sheriff, died January 2, 1935.
Ollie Edward Mitts, Arkansas State Game Warden, died June 9, 1937.
Allen H. Bufford, Arkansas State Police Trooper, died June 27, 1969.
This artifact was given in memory of these officers who gave their all.