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On Wednesday, March 13, the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office in Maine commemorated the 160th anniversary of Deputy Sheriff Thomas Smith’s tragic death in the line of duty back in 1864.
Smith’s sacrifice had faded into obscurity until retired Biddeford Detective John Gill took it upon himself to delve into historical records in early 2023, unearthing crucial details about the incident. Gill presented his research findings to the command staff and detectives at the sheriff’s office, which had no previous knowledge or records of the event.
The vivid descriptions and creative narrative from the reports of that era breathed life into the long-forgotten tale. Smith emerged from the annals of history as one of the most renowned lawmen in the state, who embarked on a perilous journey from Penobscot County to Aroostook County to apprehend a notorious fugitive from Washington County.
In a harrowing confrontation involving gunfire and knives, Smith valiantly faced the desperado, ultimately succumbing to fatal stab wounds at the age of 53. The fugitive met his end as well, shot during the skirmish and later perishing in jail.
To honor the fallen deputy’s memory, members of the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office paid tribute by visiting Forest Hill Cemetery in Old Town, where Smith was laid to rest. Undertaking a meticulous search, they located the plot and unearthed the overturned and partially buried stone markers that bore Smith’s name.
Sheriff’s office officials said they were committed to restoring the site to its former dignity and have initiated efforts to seek assistance for its renovation. Additionally, they are preparing an application to have Smith formally recognized on both the national and state law enforcement memorial walls, ensuring his legacy endures for generations to come.
“Deputy Thomas Smith’s bravery and sacrifice are a testament to the noble spirit of law enforcement. It’s our duty to ensure that his memory is honored and preserved for eternity,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.
Gill is set to receive a Community Service Award from the Maine Sheriffs’ Association for his outstanding work in preserving the memory of a forgotten hero.
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