The First Police Departments in the U.S.
The Boston Police Department describes itself as the oldest police department in the United States, even though it was only created in 1838 [cityofboston.gov]. By that point, Boston had a population of 114,366 [books.google.com].
Similarly, the New York City Police Department did not exist until 1845 [loc.gov]. By that point, New York City had a population of 134,656 [books.google.com].
Somehow, these and all other cities in the United States did not turn into chaos between 1776 and 1838.
As the oldest police department in the country, the Boston Police Department (BPD) has a rich history and a well-established presence in the Boston community. The initiation of a formal department began in 1838, when the General Court passed a bill allowing the city of Boston to appoint police officers…
The Boston Police Department was the first paid, professional public safety department in the country.
A Brief History of The B.P.D., The Official Website of the City of Boston, http://www.cityofboston.gov/police/about/history.asp.
In these early days, an officer on duty carried a six-foot pole, painted blue and white to protect himself, and a “police rattle” to call for assistance…
1903: First motor patrol wagon placed in service – a Stanley Streamer touring car operated by a chauffeur.
Same