BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—The Crawford County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce the celebration of 200 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Crawford County. This historic milestone honors two centuries of commitment to public safety, integrity, and service to the Crawford County community.
The history of the Sheriff’s Office dates back to April, 1826, when Hugh McCracken became the first Sheriff of Crawford County. Since that time, generations of Sheriffs, Deputies, and civilian employees have upheld the mission of protecting life, property, and the rights of those they serve.
“Reaching 200 years of service is an exciting milestone for us,” said Sheriff Scott Kent. “It represents the dedication, sacrifice, and professionalism of every man and woman who has worn the badge or supported this office since its beginning.”
Every member of the Sheriff’s Office—whether sworn or civilian—plays a vital role in the safety and well-being of county residents. From law enforcement operations to corrections, dispatch, administration, and support services, each position is essential to fulfilling the agency’s mission.
“As part of this bicentennial celebration, Deputies and employees were presented with a 200th Anniversary badge,” Sheriff Kent said. “The reverse side of the badge is etched with the former Sheriff’s Office that once stood next to the Crawford County Courthouse on North Walnut Street in Bucyrus. That building represents our roots and reminds us where we came from.”
The commemorative badge symbolizes tradition, duty, and the bond shared by all who have served before and those who serve today. It serves as a reminder of the heritage carried forward and the responsibility that comes with wearing the badge.
“This badge is more than a keepsake,” Sheriff Kent added. “It reflects the trust placed in this office by the citizens of Crawford County. We honor that trust every day.”
The Crawford County Sheriff’s Office is honored to share this historic milestone with the community and extends its sincere appreciation to the citizens of Crawford County for 200 years of continued support and partnership.
“We would not be here without the people we serve,” said Sheriff Kent. “We are grateful for the support of this community and look forward to continuing our mission with integrity and dedication for generations to come.”
Crawford County Sheriffs
1826 to current
*Information compiled by Retired Sheriff Ronny Shawber and Special Deputy Boyd Gifford
Two-year terms
SHERIFF-Years Served Terms Served
Hugh McCracken 1826 – 1828-Appointed One
John Miller 1829 – 183-One
John Moderwell 1832 – 1834-One
David Holm 1835 – 1836-One
John Shull 1837 – 1838-One
Samuel Andrews 1839 – 1839 Resigned
John L. Harper 1839 – 1842-Appointed One
John Caldwell 1843 – 1844-One
James Clements 1845 – 1848-One
Jonathan Kissinger 1849 – 1852-One
William C. Beale 1853 – 1856-Two
John Franz 1857 – 1860-Two
Job B. Franz 1860 – 1860-Appointed 47 Days
Joseph Worden 1861 – 1865-Three
Daniel Keplinger 1866 – 1868-One
Jimmie “Uncle” Worden 1869 – 1873-Appointed / Elected Two
Henry J. Row 1874 – 1876-One
John A Schaber 1877 – 1880-Two
John Keil 1881 – 1884-Two
Peter Faeth 1885 – 1888-Two
Christian Birk 1889 – 1892-Two
John Keil 1893 – 1896-Two
Charles George Vollmer 1897 – 1900-Two
John Gebhart 1901 – 1904-Two
August Ludwig Gerhart 1905 – 1909-Two
Solomon Crum 1910 – 1914-Two
John W. Stuckman 1915 – 1918-Two
Edward J. Knappenberger 1919 – 1922-Two
Ira Freese 1923 – 01/05/1924-Killed
Frankie Freese (Wife of Ira Freese) 1924 – 1924-One
Harvey Ulmer 1925 – 1928-Two
George Davenport 1929 – 1931 Two-Killed – Line of Duty
Carl Fred Vollmer 1931 – 1932-Appointed One
Arthur J. Stuckert 1933 – 1936-Two
NOTE: Four-year terms of Office were established in 1936 and commenced in 1937
Albert French 1937 – 1944-Two
Ralph E. Schreck 1945 – 1953-Two
Elwood Jacobs 1953 – 1968-Three +
Floyd Charles Smith 1969 – 1980-Three
Ronny J. Shawber 1981 – 2013-Eight
Scott M. Kent 2013 – current-Four