Harry, I gave that very question a lot of thought a few years back, and here is what I have come up with. Andy most likely graduated high school in 1945, since that is what it said on his first high school reunion. Then we know Andy entered the service, because he said so one time. In those days, the military was a 4 year committment, so that would probably take us to about 1950. Then he came back to Mayberry and took the first job he could get, probably pumping gas for Wally. Then one fine day about 1951 or 1952, a pretty young lady (the future Mrs. Andy Taylor) drove into Wally's to buy gas. Andy soon figured out he would need a better job if he wanted to marry her, so he looked around and got the job as Mayberry Deputy. Andy would have been deputy sheriff for a few years because the sheriff job was an elective position, and you would have to get to know every one, get some experience, and slap a few backs before you could run for Mayberry Sheriff. Then about 1953 or 1954, the Mayberry Sheriff left town for a better job, Andy ran for Sheriff, and won. Opie was born about the same time. At least that is the way I have it figured. Orville Hendricks - Mount Pilot Butter and Egg Man. > I'm not sure if this has been discussed before but I was wondering something > the other day.? I wonder what Andy Taylor did for a living before he became > Sheriff of Mayberry.? I wonder if he was a deputy or worked at the pickle > factory or at the gas works.? We know he didn't get right out of school and > become sheriff.? Anyone have any ideas? > ? > Harry in Salem, VA _______________________________________________ WBMUTBB mailing list WBMUTBB@wbmutbb.com http://www.mayberry.com/tagsrwc/wbmutbb/