Bedford County's population, recorded officially by the U.S. Census Bureau since the first census in 1790, has been historically a steady and predictable growth.  Not explained in the data, however, are variables which affect recorded numbers, such as wars, epidemics, border changes, etc.  Still, what is undeniably clear is a noticeable drop of nearly 14% in the 1960s followed by what is truly one of the most dramatic sustained increases in any American county's population history.  All told, the last 30 years of the 20th Century have seen the population of Bedford County more than double.

The Chart above shows Bedford County's polulation growth thus far in the 1990s, from 46,656 persons in 1990 to 56,600 in 1998.  This remarkable growth, which has been a boon to the County's economy, has also been a source of "growing pains" for ALL of Bedford County's public servants.  Sheriff Mike Brown has worked diligently since 1996 to bring his Department up to meet and exceed standards and demands that come with such growth.  Also, not reflected in population data are the millions of tourists who frequent Bedford County year after year to see its numerous attractions.  The men and women of the Bedford County Sheriff's Office, led by Sheriff Mike Brown, stand ready and able to uphold and enforce the law, to preserve and protect the public safety of Bedford County.