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SHERIFFS OF MONTCALM COUNTY
1850 to 2006


GIBSON S. FARGO
Sheriff from April 1, 1850 until December 28, 1850


Gibson S. Fargo was born August 16, 1822 in Herkimer County, New York to Daniel Jr. and Margaret Devendorf Fargo. He was one of 10 children. He moved with his family to Michigan about 1837, settling in Tecumseh, Lenawee County. Not much is known about Gibson other than what little information is recorded in the History of Montcalm County, Michigan by John S. Schenck. But from biographies on two of his brothers, one can see that the Fargo family placed importance on hard work, education and service to their community. Two of his brothers, Dan T. and Hiram would also serve Montcalm County as sheriff and a third, John, would represent his district in the State Legislature.

Gibson arrived in Fairplains Township shortly after his brothers, John D. and James Fargo, arrived in early 1848. He helped his brother John build the first permanent school building in the township, which was known, until it was destroyed, as the "Red School House". He was elected sheriff by the qualified voters of Bushnell, Eureka, Fairplains and Montcalm Townships (the townships that made up Montcalm County in 1850) by securing 125 votes. James French, the other opponent received one vote. Gibson died while in office, at the age of 28 years, 4 months, 12 days in Fairplains Township and is buried at Fairplains Cemetery.

Sources: History of Ionia and Montcalm Counties, Michigan by John S. Schenck; Montcalm County tombstone readings - Fairplains Township)



SHERIFFS OF MONTCALM COUNTY
compiled by Stanton area resident Judy Hardy

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