The Barnetts were among Madera’s first families, having come here from Mariposa. One of them, John H. Barnett, served as Madera County Sheriff from 1918 to 1928. He was one of the most colorful lawmen in Madera’s history because of his attempts to stamp out prostitution and the illegal liquor traffic. Before he was elected Sheriff, Barnett worked in the family’s butcher shop, which was located on the northeast corner of Yosemite and D Street. He is shown here in 1905 with several members of his family. Pictured from left to right are Charley Swanson, John H. Barnett, Fred W. Barnett, Frank Floto Barnett, and owner John Robert Barnett. (Madera Images-Bill Coate)
