Author Archives: Mike Simmons

Did you know that gunslinger John Wesley Hardin, old west gunslinger and outlaw, was captured in Pensacola? Hardin was infamous for shooting and killing 21 men, one for simply snoring too loudly.Wes Hardin was born in on May 26, 1853 in Bonham, TX to James G. and Elizabeth Hardin. His father, James, was a MethodistContinue reading “John Wesley Hardin”

Five PPD chiefs. This is the only photo containing five PPD chiefs together. Seated l-r: Drexel Caldwell (1962-1974), James Davis (1974-1980). Standing: John Mathis (2002-2010), Norman Chapman (1994-1998), Jerry Potts (1998-2002).

Sam Browne belts: Here is a 1936 photo of members of the Pensacola Police Department in front of the police station at 407 S. Jefferson Street (now the Pensacola Museum of Art). The uniformed officers are wearing Sam Browne belts. in 1858, Sam Browne, a member of the Indian army, charged a reloading cannon crewContinue reading “Sam Browne Belts”

The Pensacola Police Department has one of the most unique and attractive shields in existence. Officers, badge collectors and historians worldwide have attempted to purchase them. However, they are not for sale. The only way to possess one legally is to become a Pensacola Police officer and earn the right to wear one. Here isContinue reading “The Pensacola Police Shield”

In 1966, the Pensacola Police Department published a PR brochure that showed the officers in the different locations where they were assigned. Here are two of them:

The Pensacola Police Department has served its citizen through the city’s rich history. Pensacola’s finest carry on the tradition of excellence through protecting those around them, creating a legacy for others to follow.