Deputy Sheriff Claude Samford 1946 - 1947

        Claude Samford Began work as an officer when Sheriff Dick Middleton appointed him as his deputy in 1943.  He was appointed Sheriff four years later when Sheriff Middleton resigned to become a Texas Ranger.

        Sheriff Samford ran for Sheriff at the next election and was defeated by Tommy Sample by a vote of fifty-seven.  In 1961, he began work as a deputy for Sheriff Leon Shillings.  He also served as a Deputy under Maxie Eaves and retired in 1972.