Jefferson County: A Historical Overview

Butch Meyer, Mike Huskey, Virgil Lorenz, Tim Betz

Establishment and Early Years

Jefferson County was organized on December 8, 1818, when Missouri was still a territory. The county’s formative years saw the appointment of its first sheriff, Andrew Scott, and the establishment of Herculaneum as the county seat in 1819. The construction of the county’s first jail in 1820 marked the beginning of its legal and law enforcement infrastructure.

Moving the County Seat and Building Infrastructure

In 1839, legislation was passed to move the county seat to Hillsboro, a more central location. This period saw significant construction efforts, including the completion of a new courthouse in 1840 and a jail in 1841. By the mid-19th century, the population growth necessitated further expansion, leading to the construction of a larger courthouse and jail complex in 1865.

Advancements in Law Enforcement

The mid-20th century brought technological advancements to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. In 1956, the introduction of police car radios and a fingerprinting system by Thomas E. Mirgain marked significant modernization. This era also saw the county navigating challenges such as prison escapes in 1965 and 1993, highlighting the evolving nature of law enforcement challenges.

Community Support and Historical Milestones

The late 1960s saw the involvement of the Civil Defense Auxiliary Police units in assisting with large events or disasters, showcasing community involvement in law enforcement. The narrative of the sheriff’s office is also marked by milestones, such as the appointment of the first and only female sheriff, Helen Church, and the longest-serving sheriff, Walter “Buck” Buerger.

Modernization and Accreditation

Under the leadership of Sheriff Oliver “Glenn” Boyer, the sheriff’s office underwent significant changes, including jail renovation and the introduction of new communication and computer technology. The accreditation by C.A.L.E.A. in 2005 underscored the office’s commitment to professional excellence.

Continuing Legacy

Today, under Sheriff Dave Marshak, Jefferson County’s Sheriff’s Office serves a population of over 224,000, continuing its tradition of improving law enforcement practices through training, equipment, and technological advancements, more than two centuries after its establishment.