Born March 7, 1836, Coles County, Illinois
Died September 5, 1911, Ada County, Idaho
James Lawrence was born on Mar. 7, 1836 in Coles County, Illinois. He arrived in Boise in 1864.
Lawrence was elected Ada County Sheriff in November 1882. He resigned six months later in May 1883, citing insufficient pay. As Sheriff he received $1,000 per year, $2.25 per day when a prisoner was in jail and an additional $1 per day to cover board, clothing and medical attention for each prisoner.
In addition to his short term as sheriff, he served eight years as Ada County Commissioner.
He died on his ranch in the Eagle/Star area at the age of 75.