Last week I toured the
Massachusetts State Police Museum and Learning Center which is located in my own town of Northbridge, MA. The Museum is privately funded through donations and its mission
is to provide an opportunity for visitors to explore the Massachusetts State Police’s rich historical past through its interactive exhibits and Learning Center activities. Many past and present Troopers, local police officers, and dedicated citizens have invested thousands of volunteer hours towards preserving the unique history of those who have worn the French and Electric Blue, from its humble beginnings as the State Constabulary enforcing prohibition and labor laws in 1865 up through the modern era of cybercrime, homeland security, and the challenges of policing in this era. Over the years, many State Police related items and historic memorabilia have been recovered and restored. Some of these items are currently on display in the Museum, with much more in storage awaiting permanent display.
The Museum's exhibits were very well done and were augmented by guided tours offered by retired troopers. The experience was very special to me given that I'm a former police dispatcher myself and my dad was a member of the Registry of Motor Vehicles Police which merged into the State Police in the early 90s. I was moved to see the following display of the RMV uniform that my dad wore prior to his retirement in 1988:
If you're ever passing through the Central Mass area, be sure to take advantage of this gem of a museum.
