New Westminster Police Museum, New Westminster

The New Westminster Police Museum is a small area set aside from the Police Station in New Westminster, British Columbia which educates visitors about the city's long serving police force though artifacts, newspaper clippings, information, a motorcycle and even a replica of a jail cell used to lock up prisoners. CREDIT: Venture Vancouver, SOURCE: www.venturevancouver.com

The New Westminster Police Museum displays badges, articles and artifacts from the region's policing history.

STATS

HOURS

Type:

Museum

Season:

All Seasons

Weather:

All Weather

Time:

1 hour

Cost:

By Donation

What to bring:

Camera, Questions, Sense of Curiosity

In September of 2001 the brand new Police Station opened in New Westminster along with a Museum honouring the many decades of service by the men and women who have served on the Force. Encompassing artifacts, photos, firearms, a motorcycle and even a jail cell from the previous police headquarters, the New Westminster Police Museum is a fun place to stop by and learn about one of the region's oldest Police Forces.

Formed in 1873, the New Westminster Police Force has served and protected residents and visitors during the creation of the Province, several disasters and trying times. Its long and rich history can be found in many books but with the move to a newer, larger building (the old Federal building on Columbia Street) in 2001, the Force took the opportunity to create a small and informative museum in its lobby for visitors to explore.

Inside the new building tucked into an open corner are several displays filled with badges, photographs, firearms, newspaper articles and artifacts as well as a 1958 Harley Davidson motorcycle used by the New Westminster Police Force between 1959 to 1971. One of the most popular displays is an old jail cell complete with a bed and toilet taken from the previous police building which visitors can go into.

Museum-goers can enjoy and appreciate the hard work and dedication of the officers who have served British Columbia's first city through its Police Museum and explore the rich history and struggles faces in the city's early days.

The New Westminster Police Museum is open seven days a week and during front desk operating hours. It is a great place to learn about New Westminster and its early policing endeavours as well as enjoy the many displays - especially the old jail cell which makes for some very interesting photos!