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Those of us who enjoy collecting and reseaching police memorabilia know how rare it is to find a grouping like the one featured on this page. Harry W. Johnson was a lawman during a very interesting era in American history, the roaring 20's. Prohibition, the depression, and the rapid population increase in the southwest were all prominent aspects in his career. His diaries and saved letters are all important pieces of this fascinating saga. |
Pima Co. Under Sheriff H. W. Johnson standing 3rd from the left and wearing a white hat.
Signed studio portrait of Walter Bailey,
Pima Co. Sheriff 1922-26 & 1930-33. H. W. Johnson served as his Under Sheriff during the 2nd term.
Gold Front Chief of Police badge, Oxnard, CAL
Chief Johnson was sworn in on May 4, 1926.
The 1928 California Blue Book indicates the population of Oxnard CA at 7,000 and lists the H. W. Johnson as the Chief of Police.
Gold Front Under Sheriff badge, Pima Co. AZ., circa 1930
More research is being conducted to determine when these badges were used. Some facts we have learned: Born, Galetia, Ill Oct 4, 1888.
Died, Albuquerque, NM July 19, 1934, heart attack.
Father, J W Johnson.
Mother, Elmira Dew, (I love that name)
US Army, 1911-1918, rank Sgt.
Height, 5'8' Eyes, blue.
Member of, Masons, American legion, Al Malikah temple, Shiners, Elks.
Brothers, 2, Charlie & Tate.
Wife, Ova Lee Wilburn, (she used Peggy)
Children, Harold Wilburn Johnson
Address in Oxnard, 661 G St.
A young Johnson in his U. S. Army uniform, 1911-1918.
Newspaper articles on H. W. Johnson are on page 2. Click on Next Page banner at bottom of page.
Letter signed by George Contreras, Los Angeles County District Attorney's office.
Left to Right - Vincent Monteleone Deputy Sheriff Los Angeles County, Oxnard Police Chief H. W. Johnson, Joseph Leroy Smith, alias James L. Mac Donald, noted high jacker,
George Contreras Chief Enforcement Officer, Los Angeles Co. District Attorneys.
