A History of the Amherst Police

Description

In 1872, Fiske A. Thayer became Amherst's first nightwatchman and lighter of street lamps. He was paid $2 per night to patrol the streets from 9 pm to 6 am, 351 nights of the year. Thayer was also required to light the street lamps, care for them and put them out. In 1874, he became the first keeper of the lock up, built to the rear of the fire engine house (now the site of the High Horse on North Pleasant). Captain Ron Young of the Amherst Police will present the origins of the Amherst police service and the early days of policing in Amherst. He brings his abiding interest in Amherst Police history and firsthand knowledge of what it means to serve. Young joined the department as a community service officer in 1987 and currently serves as the department's captain in charge of administration. Join us with your lunch in hand. We will provide coffee, tea and cider for you as you listen to the presentations. The 30-minute program begins promptly at 12:15 with seating and beverages ready just before noon. The lectures are free and everyone is welcome to attend. For updated information, check our website at amhersthistory.org.