When the Irish arrived in New York in the mid 1800s, the only jobs available to them were as cops and firemen.  They filled those rolls well.  The Irish officers used a tool from their home lands, billy clubs carved from bog oak.  The badge in the center is a first issue Detroit Michigan Police Department badge from 1865.  The officer at right protected the citizens as a member of the Boston Massechusetts Police Department in the 1800's. 
 



           


 

  


 

 

 

 

                  


                                    


                  

      

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
This 1950 Ford Custom police car may be found at the museum on most days and serves to promote the museum in parades and special events around Reno/Tahoe.

The 1967 International paddy wagon served the Sparks Police Department for many years and was saved from the wrecking yard and restored by retired Sparks officer Roy O'Connell.

The 1953 Ford  and 1977 Plymouth Fury Nevada Highway Patrol car belongs to Trooper Jeff Leathley.

All of these vehicles frequently represent the museum at special events, parades, and may be seen at the museum on special occasions.

The Silver State Peace Officers Museum is truly a national law enforcement museum.  The museum features special exhibits on law enforcement in Virginia City as well as Nevada law enforcement dating back to the 1860's.   Our exhibit material on policing in America includes thousands of historical items dating to the 1780s.   Our exhibits provide an education into the evolution of the law enforcement profession. 


POLICING IN THE UNITED STATES

Tools of the profession from nightsticks to modern less lethal devices.

Seeing in the dark from the earliest whale oil powered lanterns to modern compact lighting.

See how the officer on the beat let others know there was trouble before use of the modern whistle.

Uniforms and uniform items from then to now.Badges from throughout the US dating back to 1841.

Wanted posters, early hand written warrants, historical photos.

           

THE GANGSTER YEARS

John Dillinger's Death Mask and related material. 

Items related to Al Capone, Bonnie and Clyde, and Baby Face Nelson.


NEVADA MEMORIAL ROOM         

  Visit the Nevada Memorial Room and learn the story of each officer's service and ultimate sacrifice.
          

EVEN OUR LOCATION IS QUITE HISTORICAL

 Experience being locked up in the 1876 Storey County Jail.  The museum is located within the very historical

Storey County Courthouse which is still used for court and other government uses.
 
 
 

 

Exhibits
Copyright 2007 Silver State Peace Officers Museum. All rights reserved.