Why did a Man want to be sheriff? The pay was low, and the work ranged from menial to dangerous and demanding. The majority of the men who enforced the law were average citizens. Some served in a time of high adventure; some were not as brave as others; some drank too much; some were pawns of politics, and others were escaping shadowy pasts. As Gorzalka chronicles the life of each sheriff in Wyoming's territorial days, their successes, failures, and motivation, the stories combine to create the era's history. Chapters on all fifty-five territorial sheriffs. Photos of most.

Because of its rich coal heritage and breathtaking scenery, many regard Wyoming County as the hidden gem of southern West Virginia. The countys vibrant history began with Native Americans, whom many believe left behind the petroglyphs that attract national attention, and continued to its early residents, who farmed and flourished in the logging industry. In 1906, when the Deepwater Railroad (later the Virginian) came to the town of Mullens, Wyoming Countys role as a provider of the nations natural resources was strengthened. By the 1920s, the county was one of West Virginias foremost coal-producing counties; it maintains that position today. In addition to its integral part in resource exportation, Wyoming County is legendary for its sports scene. Such great players and coaches as Curt Warner, star running back of Penn State and the Seattle Seahawks; Mike DAntonio, head coach of the Phoenix Suns; and Joe Pendry, assistant coach of the Houston Texans, got their start in Wyoming County. In recent years, this area has been best known for its recreational opportunities. Twin Falls State Park and R. D. Bailey Lake attract thousands of tourists annually, and the Coal Heritage Trail gives residents and visitors alike a chance to see how coal influenced the growth of the region.

In Tribute Lelan Dirk Phillips served as Sheriff of Wyoming County, West Virginia during a turbulent time of Americas history. During the 20th Century, West Virginia was known for its pristine beauty and wilderness. The majority of people who lived there worked as coal miners in support of the mining industry and were the descendants of settlers traveling west, from Virginia and the Carolinas, in order to own land of their own. Lelan Dirk Phillips was a hard working man, who rose through the ranks in the coal mining industry by day; however, he distilled and smuggled moonshine (a whiskey indigenous to the area) by night. He was initially an atheist, who believed in no one but himself to be the maker of his own destiny. Later, he became a devout Christian and husband dedicating his life to upholding justice and caring for others when, his wifethe love of his lifealmost died. As sheriff, he established a reputation of dismantling the gangs that were illegally making and distributing moonshine throughout that part of the country and striving hard to provide justice for all. Winona Phillips Donnally, the author of this book, came from a family that embodied the American dream deep within the mountains of West Virginia. Her family strived to overcome adversity through nothing more than faith, dedication and hard work. She lived a long life, selflessly devoting herself as a revered mother to her family and registered psychiatric nurse to her patients. She will always be in the hearts of those whose lives she touched. This book is dedicated by Joseph D. Sage in loving memory of his beloved grandmother who passed the torch of American values, selfless service to others, and devotion to a loving family. Im honored to finish what you started