The First Sheriff
The first criminal court was established in Washington
County by one of the first men to arrive in the area. He was
also the first Sheriff of Washington County.
Col. Ebenezer Sproat had made an impression on
everyone, including the local Indians who nicknamed him, "Big
Buckeye". Some people believe this is where the nickname
"Buckeyes" for Ohioans originated.
Sproat was a distinguished soldier. When Sproat
was elected Sheriff, he marched triumphantly up the main thoroughfare
on a horse with his sword drawn. He immediately convened the
first session of the Court of Common Pleas for Washington County.
It was the first court convened in the new Northwest Territory.
Court was immediately adjourned as there were no
cases to be heard.
