History of British Columbia sheriffs

Sheriff Andrew Muir was born in Scotland, and his family had established a sawmill in Sooke after they left the employ of the Hudson's Bay Company.

[1] Sheriff Muir was tasked with the role of coroner, constable, and election returning officer.

In 1858, the Gold Rush brought thousands of new visitors to Vancouver Island.

Sheriff Muir's duties increased to include the suppression of riots and fugitive apprehension.

Sheriffs, depending on their county, would serve as justice of the peace - allowing them to act as marriage commissioners.