Philadelphia County Prison (Moyamensing)

Handcuffs from Moyamensing Prison, date unknown
Metal (40.58.12)

Philadelphia's Police"
Law and Order in the City

Since the city's earliest days, Philadelphia's law enforcement was entrusted to sheriffs, constables, and night watchmen. Initially operating as a volunteer force, the professional Philadelphia Police Department came into being with the passabe of the 1854 Act of Consolidation, which merged the City and County under a unified government. This legislation brought significant enhancements to the police force, including the potential expansion of its personnel to 820officers, the establishment of rank-based tiered salaries, and the introduction of uniforms for its members.