One of Ontario’s oldest police forces is our very own Niagara Parks Police established on May 27th, 1887.It’s even older than the Ontario Provincial Police force which was established on Oct. 13, 1909.

The original parks police force consisted of a Head Policeman who received $2.50 per day and a regular policeman who had a wage of $2.00 per day. In addition, they each received two uniforms, two pairs of strong boots and a winter overcoat.

A lot has changed since those days. Today’s force is much larger. All officers who patrol the 1130 ha (2800 acres) of The Niagara Parks Commission undergo the same training as municipal and regional police forces. They enforce the regulations of The Niagara Parks Act, Highway Traffic Act, Liquor License Act and Criminal Act.

The Niagara Parks Police headquarters is one of the best in the world. Outside the building is a spectacular view of the parkland and the American Falls. In the 1980’s I had my office in this building (it was the NPC Administration Headquarters at the time) and believe me it was difficult some days to get work done!

Attached is a photograph of their lovely limestone building built in 1928.