News Editor Ever since she heard the story of Lexington’s Minnie Mae Talbott — who on June 8, 1919 was sworn in as the first elected female sheriff in U.S. history — filmmaker and screenwriter Jamie Hoyt has been inspired by her strength and courage.

Through a screenplay she wrote about Minnie, “Widow’s Badge,” Hoyt has been spreading the word far and wide about this true and little-known hometown heroine.

The screenplay has earned acclaim at eight film festivals through various awards and selections. Most recently, it was performed in “readers theater” style at the Red Dirt Film Festival in Oklahoma.

The 10-page screenplay — which Hoyt hopes to expand into a mini-series — is making its way “home” as the script will be read during Minnie Mae Day on June 13 in downtown Lexington. Hoyt will portray Minnie Mae during the 11 a.m. performance, as well as throughout the entire event.

Hoyt is thrilled that “Widow’s Badge” will finally be presented in Minnie’s hometown.

“It’s nice that it’s been making the rounds and getting some recognition, but I’m excited that it’s going to be performed in Lexington,” remarked Hoyt, whose family has been involved in film and theater for generations. “It’s a story that needs to be told. There are a lot of people even in Lexington that don’t know about her. (The screenplay) tells the story of who she was and why she did what she did.”

With a background in law enforcement herself, Hoyt has a special affinity for Minnie, who won a special election on May 29, 1919 to become Sheriff after her husband, Lafayette County Sheriff Joseph Talbott, and two of his deputies were killed by car thieves.

In a male-dominated society, Hoyt said Minnie overcame discrimination and plenty of doubt to earn the respect of all. More than anything, Hoyt, through sharing Minnie’s story, is hoping to inspire young women and girls to dream big.

“To be in that position at a time before women had the right to vote, it must have been hard. She also had five kids and was dealing with this horrible tragedy in which she lost her husband,” said Hoyt. “Some people would have laid down and let life kind of steamroll over them, but Minnie was strong.”

Added Hoyt: “As a history buff, I’m drawn to stories of resilience in the face of adversity, and Minnie’s story is one of them.”

Minnie Mae Day in Lexington will also feature live music, family activities, a law enforcement recognition, a tribute to women of courage past and present, historical reenactments, and a Junior Deputy swearing-in ceremony for children.