Original Owner George Washington Matsell (1811 - 1877)

Nightstick

1840-1860

Place madeNew York, United States, North America

Wood, leather

Overall: 26 x 1 3/8 in. ( 66 x 3.5 cm )

Purchase

1949.32b.1-2

This nightstick belonged to George Washington Matsell (1811-1877), the first Chief of Municipal Police in New York City, 1845-1857, the first regularly drilled police force in the city's history. Matsell was Superintendent of New York City police in 1873.

DescriptionStraight wooden baton style nightstick with a hole bored through the center near the handle end with the remnant of a leather strap.

ClassificationsPOLICE AND LAW ENFORCEMENT