Proudly displayed in the frontmost area of our Pioneers’ Museum sits the proud statue of one of Imperial Valley’s most distinguished Sheriffs of antiquity, Mobley Augustus Meadows. The statue itself is a memorial, courtesy of Harold Bell Wright, a great author, and pioneer resident who held no small admiration for Mobley, even further canonizing him as a figure of significance through his novel; “Winning of Barbara Worth”, which depicts the tenacious and innovative beginnings of the Imperial Valley, with the notable inclusion of a character based on Mobley himself, given the fictional moniker, “Texas Joe”.
Mobley was a fairly active participant in developing the valley, having helped dig the first canal that brought the water from the Colorado River and being chosen to be the first Sheriff of Imperial County after it was chartered in 1907. He was re-elected again and continued to serve until his eventual death in 1915. Originally displayed at the imperial courthouse, then moved to the Imperial fairgrounds for many years, and now, his visage as the quintessential pioneer is now immortalized outside the entrance of the museum, donning his cartridge belt, hat, and holstered pistol, along with an empty canteen in his hand as he kneels to gather water.1
Past perfect – Portrait of Mobley- [P2007.21.17]
Past perfect – Photo of statue -[P1985.30.1]