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Centennial Celebration Feature: 1920

For this month’s Centennial feature, we are looking back at the 1920s!

From 1924-1961, Patrick T. McDonnell served as Chief of the Randolph Police Department. Chief McDonnell was well-remembered for his pride in his police motorcycle and frequently riding it around Town. 

The Town was additionally served by four Special Police Officers: William Mahoney, Henry J. Mann, Patrick Brady, and William F. Whitecross. They worked out of a police station located in the basement of 6 Main St., what is now Stetson Hall. 

The department’s first motorcycle was purchased in 1924 for $350, and the first police cruiser was purchased in June 1927. The cruiser was a Ford Touring and cost $455.

Interesting Facts from 1920

Randolph’s Population: 4,756-6,553

Price of Milk: $0.45 / gallon

Price of a Postage Stamp: $0.02

Price of Gas: $0.10/gallon

Submit Your Photos

Community members are encouraged to get involved by submitting photos or stories they may have featuring the police department through the years. Those who wish to submit photos can do so by clicking the button below.

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Pictured is former Chief Patrick T. McDonnell who was well-remembered for frequently riding his police motorcycle around town. 

About the Randolph PD Centennial Celebration:

From the 1800s through 1923, Randolph was served by a constabulary. In 1924 the Randolph Police Department was officially created. In celebration of its 100th year, the department is sharing information from past decades each month, including historical facts and features about the department, and general details and happenings from the community during that decade.