Shonquist was the first sheriff of Box Butte county, serving the short term of 1887. and then one full term. At the election of 1889, Eugene A. Hall was elected, serving three terms. Then came Edwin P. Sweeney, then Ira C. Reed. Albert Wiker was the next sheriff, and he was followed by Calvin M. Cox, and James W. Miller in turn, the latter being the present popular head of the law enforcement division of the county government.

Superintendents: The educational department of the countv is always its most important function, for it deals with the children of the future. Box Butte county has been fortunate in the class of educators that it has had

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HISTORY OF WESTERN NEBRASKA

for its county educational head: Those who have served in that capacity are : First, Nathan S. Simpson, then Burton F. Gilman, John Leith, H. F. Fillmore, Anna E. Neeland, John W. Baumgardner, Leora Rustin, Ora E. Phillips, Delia M. Reed, and Opal Russell, the present incumbent.

Attorneys : The county prosecutors have a large duty to perform, for a small compensation. So poorly paid has this office been considered, that it is always difficult to get the best talent to consider the sacrifices that it involves. Excellent lawyers are sometimes found in these offices, but it is usually with a view to the acquaintanceship they thereby secure. The first county attorney of Box Butte county was James H. Danskin, who served the short term when the county was organized, and was reelected. In June, 1890, he resigned to accept the office of Receiver in the United States Land Office at Alliance. William M. Iodence was appointed and filled out the unexpired term. Robert C. Noleman next served for one term and then Burton F. Gilman for two terms. Iodence was then returned, in 1896, for one term.