Turbeville, Sam B.
Cooper, Delta County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(July 4, 1856 - July 8, 1925) Born in Mississippi. He and his wife, former Saluda Chapman, came to Lamar County, Texas 1879. Moved to Delta County in 1884. His occupation was farming. Elected Delta County Sheriff in special contested election May 1, 1897. Served 3 additional terms. During service, counseled young people and enforced prohibition. After retirement from office of sheriff, he was appointed U.S. Marshall for Eastern District of Texas.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Born in Mississippi in 1856, Sam B. Turbeville came with his wife Saluda to Texas in 1879 and settled in Delta County as a farmer. Elected county sheriff in a contested special election in 1897, he served several terms, counseling young people and enforcing Prohibition. His career culminated in appointment as U.S. Marshal for the Eastern District of Texas.
Why it matters
Turbeville's rise from farmer to federal marshal reflects the reach of local law enforcement in the Progressive-era South and the moral crusades, like Prohibition, that shaped it.
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Related people
- · Sam B. Turbeville
- · Saluda Chapman Turbeville
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
Oaklawn Cemetery
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Delta County
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Carved from parts of Lamar and Hopkins counties, Delta County was created on July 29, 1870, and organized that October during the Reconstruction era. Its name reflects its triangular shape, wedged between the forks of the Sulphur River, with the town of Cooper chosen as county seat.
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