A special thanks to those who allowed copies of photos to be used and archived by the Sheriff's Office.

Origins of the Office of Sheriff

The High Sheriff position now known as Shenandoah County Sheriff's Office was formed May 26, 1772. One of the most important duties of the High Sheriff in this era was to collect taxes. Duties of the first Sheriff, whose name was Tavener Beale, were described as "bring to court persons who broke the peace or were suspected of breaking the law".

Tavener Beale complained to the court that he had no place for holding prisoners and ordered he have the liberty to erect a small log prison near the place appointed for holding courts. That location remains as the present day jail and is commonly know as  "Court House Square".

The Shenandoah County Sheriff's Office has come a long way since its creation in 1772.