A Brief History of the Boston Police Department The history of
American law enforcement begins in Boston. The people of the
town of Boston established a Watch in 1631, and the Town Meeting
assumed control of the Watch in 1636. Watchmen patrolled at
night, alert for criminals, wild animals, and fire. Their
responsibilities grew along with the town, which in 1822 became
the City of Boston. In 1838, Boston established a police force
of 6 men under the supervision of a City Marshal. The Boston
Watch of 120 men operated separately. In 1854, the old police
and watch organizations were abolished and the Boston Police
Department was established with 250 officers. Each officer was
paid $2.00 per day or night shift, could hold no outside
employment, and walked his own beat. The bill hook of the old
Watch was replaced with a 14 inch club. In the late 19th
century, Boston police provided charitable services that today
are managed by other agencies. Police officers at each station
served soup to the poor, first at the exp