Franklin A. Loyd
Littlefield, Lamb County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Born in Montague County. Taking office as sheriff in 1935, he served with honor until mortally wounded in line of duty. His widow, Mrs. Grace Owen Loyd, served remainder of term. He was father of 8 children. Recorded, 1968
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Franklin A. Loyd, born in Montague County, took office as sheriff of Lamb County on the South Plains in 1935 and was mortally wounded in the line of duty. In a striking arrangement for the era, his widow, Grace Owen Loyd, was appointed to serve out the remainder of his term. He left behind eight children.
Why it matters
The story captures both the danger frontier-era lawmen still faced in 1930s Texas and an early instance of a woman holding a county's highest law-enforcement office.
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Related people
- · Franklin A. Loyd
- · Grace Owen Loyd
Themes & tags
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