“Such a Legend in Her Own Right”: Equestrian Community Mourns the Saddening Loss of 94-Year-Old Cowgirl, Who Achieved a Historic First Once

Alice Chandler, a remarkable figure in history, led an extraordinary life as an equestrian trailblazer. At 21, she became the first woman to serve as an Orange County Sheriff’s Department deputy. She had impressive horsemanship skills. Alice fearlessly patrolled the sprawling Irvine family property, including Peter’s Lake, a renowned hunting and fishing spot. Sheriff James A. Musick recognized her talent and appointed her despite her lack of law enforcement experience.

At 94, Chandler peacefully passed away on Saturday, June 10. Her legacy extends beyond law enforcement. She ventured into breeding, and cowgirl pursuits, and even became a certified pilot and instructor.

Alice Chandler: Fearless equestrian, nurturing mother, an enduring inspiration

Dorothy Alice Chandler, born on June 19, 1928, was a force to be reckoned with. Known for her sharp-witted nature, Alice found solace in the clique of fellow women police officers, whom she considered her chosen family. At the Corona convalescent home, where she resided for several years, Alice bid her final farewell. According to Orange County Register retired Garden Grove police officer Katherine Anderson fondly recalled, “Everything she did, she was just such a legend in her own right… Women weren’t doing these things back then.” 

Raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Alice’s family sought a new beginning in California during the Great Depression. They later eventually settled in Santa Ana. Tragically, Alice’s younger brother fell victim to a firearm accident in 1940. Amidst this, her father George emerges as a complex figure, his struggles with alcoholism and violent tendencies revealed in a poignant 2012 Orange County Register profile. The bond between her parents fractured, leading to their divorce. In the 1940s, George worked as a gardener at Irvine Ranch, extensive farmland near Peter’s Lake, owned by Myford Plum Irvine, son of James Irvine III.

Captivated by horse riding, Alice’s fascination prompted her mother to uproot their lives and settle near Peter’s Lake. It’s where Chandler immersed herself in the equestrian world under the guidance and wisdom of seasoned ranch hands. Deputies patrolling the area noticed Alice and informed Orange County Sheriff James A. Musick. Recognizing her riding skills, Musick deputized her with a police card, granting her authority to patrol and protect Irvine Company property. Although Alice never married nor had children, her influence as a mother figure extended to countless women in law enforcement, leaving an indelible mark on their lives.

Officers brought warmth to Alice Chandler’s solitary world

Among those who formed a special bond with Chandler was Katherine Anderson, a retired Garden Grove Police Officer, and the department’s very first female motorcycle officer. Learning that Chandler had no family and resided in a convalescent home, Anderson rallied a group of female law enforcement officers to visit her.  Anderson reflected, “Well, I don’t know if she adopted me or it was a mutual love… I love that woman. We considered each other family. She didn’t have anyone else.” Taking on the role of caregiver, Anderson devoted her time to Alice’s well-being. She ran errands and organized outings as reported by Behind the Badge. 

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Chandler experienced her first-ever Mother’s Day call and a joyous birthday celebration surrounded by female officers. The Orange County Sheriff’s Museum & Education Center became the rightful home for Alice’s cherished badge, gun, and department ID, a testament to her remarkable journey. Alice Chandler’s story exemplifies the power of dedication, and friendship.

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