Police Department Subject Files

Series

Identifier: 6403-01

Scope and Contents Note

Files on various topics that may contain written material (letters, certificates, newspaper clippings, etc.) as well as photographs and negatives. The files cover a wide variety of subject matter, including equipment, training, geographic areas, programs, specific cases and investigations, reports and studies, facilities, and events.

Dates

Creation: 1888-1996

Creator

Seattle (Wash.). Police Dept. (Organization)

Conditions Governing Access

Records are open to the public.

Historical Note

The City’s first charter established the Marshall as the local peace officer. An 1883 Charter amendment established the position of Chief of Police with authority to hire police officers. The Chief of Police was an elected position until 1890. The City Charter of 1890 created the Board of Police Commissioners which administered the Department and appointed officers. Following allegations of corruption, the Commission was abolished by the new Charter of 1896. The Chief of Police, appointed by the mayor, served as administrator of the Department. In 1962, the Department assumed authority for policing the harborfront, formerly a function of the Harbor Department.

Full Extent

27 Cubic Feet

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

Files collected on various topics by Police Department staff.

Arrangement

Files are arranged alphabetically.

Related Materials

Photographs of one individual are located in the Individual Files (6407-01). Photographs of an entire Police Academy Class are located in the Police Academy Records (6408-01).