HEADS OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT

Checkerboard Band

A brief history about the office and roll call of each head of the Chicago Police Department.

HISTORY OF THE OFFICE


The head of the Chicago Police Department has served under a variety of official titles, including High Constable, City Marshall, Chief, General Superintendent, Commissioner and Superintendent of Police.

There have been 63 administrations, but only 59 men have served as head of the Department. General Superintendent Cyrus P. Bradley served in two non-consecutive terms (1856, 1861) and General Superintendent Jacob Rehm served in four non-consecutive terms (1858, 1863, 1866, 1873). Bradley’s entry to office marked the first time that two people headed the Department.

For a brief period of time, beginning on May 26, 1855, the Department was headed by two people. Their official titles were the City Marshall and Chief of Police; which was later re-titled General Superintendent of Police on May 1, 1861. During this period the General Superintendent mostly acted as a figurehead while the City Marshall made the final decision on most matters.

RANK INSIGNIA


Beginning in May 1855 each Head of the department has worn a rank insignia identifying their office and it has only changed once.

Three Star Cluster

Titles: Chief of Police, Commissioner and General Superintendent

Active Service Dates: May 26, 1855 – January 11, 1953

Four Star Cluster

Titles: Commissioner, Superintendent and Superintendent of Police

Active Service Dates: January 12, 1953 – Present

HEADS OF THE DEPARTMENT


The heads of the Chicago Police Department are listed in chronological order starting with the most recent Superintendent of Police. Use the Page Index to jump to a specific five-year period.

PAGE INDEX

|  1850  |  1875  |  1900  |  1925  |  1950  |  1975  |  2000  |

64TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Superintendent of Police Eddie T. Johnson (2016 - Present)

Superintendent of Police

Larry B. Snelling (2023 – Present)


Appointed: September 27, 2023

Resigned: N/A

Served: 2023 – Present

Born: January 31, 1969 in Chicago, Illinois

63RD HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Superintendent of Police Eddie T. Johnson (2016 - Present)

Superintendent of Police

David O’Neil Brown (2020 – 2023)


Appointed: April 15, 2020

Resigned: March 16, 2023

Served: 2020 – 2023

Born: September 18, 1960 in Oak Cliff, Texas

Transition of Office: On March 1, 2023, Brown announced that he would resign effective March 16, 2023. The announcement came the day after Mayor Lightfoot lost her reelection bid, becoming a one term Mayor. Upon Brown’s resignation First Deputy Superintendent of Police Eric Carter was named Interim Superintendent of Police by Mayor Lori Lightfoot. Carter was named the Iterim Superintendent of Police while the search for a permanent replacement was begun by the newly formed Community Commission on Public Safety and Accountability. On May 15, 2023, Interim Superintendent Eric Carter retired after 31 years of service. On the same day Mayor Brandon Johnson took office and appointed Retired Chief of Patrol Fred Waller the new Interim Superintendent of Police as the search for a permanent replacement continued.

62ND HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Superintendent of Police Eddie T. Johnson (2016 - Present)

Superintendent of Police

Eddie T. Johnson (2016 – 2019)


Appointed: April 13, 2016

Discharged: December 2, 2019

Served: 3 years, 7 months, 20 days

Born: July 28, 1960 in Chicago, Illinois

Transition of Office: Upon Johnson’s resignation Former Chief of Police Charles “Charlie” Lloyd Beck of the Los Angeles Police Department was named Interim Superintendent of Police by Mayor Lori Lightfoot. Beck was named the Interim Superintendent of Police while the search for a permanent replacement was found.

61ST HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Superintendent of Police Garry McCarthy (2011 - 2016)

Superintendent of Police

Garry McCarthy (2011 – 2016)


Appointed: May 11, 2011

Resigned: December 1, 2015

Served: 4 years, 6 months, 21 days

Born: May 4, 1959 in New York, New York

Transition of Office: Upon McCarthy’s resignation First Deputy Superintendent of Police John Escalante was named Interim Superintendent of Police by Mayor Rahm Emanuel. On March 28, 2016, Escalante was returned to First Deputy Superintendent of Police and Chief of Patrol Eddie T. Johnson was named Interim Superintendent of Police by Mayor Rahm Emanuel until his official appointment on April 13, 2016.

60TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Superintendent of Police Jody P. Weis (2008 - 2011)

Superintendent of Police

Jody P. Weis (2008 – 2011)


Appointed: February 1, 2008

Resigned: March 1, 2011

Served: 3 years, 1 month, 0 days

Born: December 10, 1957 in Fort Myers, Florida


Transition of Office: Upon Weis’s resignation Retired Superintendent of Police Terry G. Hillard was named Interim Superintendent of Police by Mayor Richard Michael Daley.

59TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Superintendent of Police Philip J. Cline (2003 - 2007)

Superintendent of Police

Philip J. Cline (2003 – 2007)


Appointed: October 6, 2003

Resigned: April 2, 2007

Served: 3 years, 5 months, 27 days

Born: October 10, 1949 in Chicago, Illinois


Transition of Office: Upon Cline’s resignation First Deputy Superintendent of Police Dana V. Starks was named Interim Superintendent of Police by Mayor Richard Micahel Daley.

58TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Superintendent of Police Terry G. Hillard (1998 - 2003)

Superintendent of Police

Terry G. Hillard (1998 – 2003)


Appointed: February 18, 1998

Resigned: April 18, 2003

Served: 5 years, 2 months, 0 days

Born: August 11, 1943 in South Fulton, Tennessee

57TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Superintendent of Police Matt L. Rodriguez (1992 - 1997)

Superintendent of Police

Matt L. Rodriguez (1992 – 1997)


Appointed: April 13, 1992

Resigned: December 1, 1997

Served: 5 years, 7 months, 18 days

Born: April 5, 1936

Died: August 30, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois

56TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Superintendent of Police LeRoy Martin (1987 - 1992)

Superintendent of Police

LeRoy Martin (1987 – 1992)


Appointed: November 18, 1987

Resigned:April 12, 1992

Served: 4 years, 2 months, 25 days

Born: 1929 in Chicago, Illinois

Died: August 31, 2013 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Oak Woods Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois

55TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Superintendent of Police Fred Rice, Jr. (1983 - 1987)

Superintendent of Police

Fred Rice, Jr. (1983 – 1987)


Appointed: August 27, 1983

Resigned: November 1, 1987

Served: 4 years, 2 months, 5 days

Born: December 24, 1926 in Chicago, Illinois

Died: January 10, 2011 in Palos Heights, Illinois

Cemetery: Oak Woods Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois

54TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Superintendent of Police Richard J. Brzeczek (1980 - 1983)

Superintendent of Police

Richard J. Brzeczek (1980 – 1983)


Appointed: January 11, 1980

Discharged: April 29, 1983

Served: 3 years, 3 months, 18 days

Born: October 8, 1942 in Chicago, Illinois


Transition of Office: Upon Brzeczek’s resignation Retired Superintendent of Police James E. O’Grady was named Interim Superintendent of Police by Mayor Jane Byrne.

53RD HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Superintendent of Police James E. O'Grady (1978 - 1979)

Superintendent of Police

James E. O’Grady (1978 – 1979)


Appointed: April 10, 1978

Resigned: April 25, 1979

Served: 1 year, 0 months, 15 days

Born: 1929 in Chicago, Illinois


Transition of Office: Upon O’Grady’s resignation Joseph DiLeonardi was named Interim Superintendent of Police by Mayor Jane Byrne. In January 1980, DiLeonardi was relieved of his command and First Deputy Superintendent of Police Samuel Nolan was named Interim Superintendent of Police by Mayor Jane Byrne.

52ND HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Superintendent of Police James M. Rochford (1974 - 1977)

Superintendent of Police

James M. Rochford (1974 – 1977)


Appointed: February 11, 1974

Resigned: October 11, 1977

Served: 3 years, 8 months, 0 days

Born: October 1, 1921 in Chicago, Illinois

Died: April 14, 2004 in Park Ridge, Illinois

Cemetery: St. Joseph Cemetery – River Grove, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon Rochford’s resignation First Deputy Superintendent of Police Michael Spiotto was named Interim Superintendent of Police by Mayor Michael Anthony Bilandic.

51ST HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Superintendent of Police James B. Conlisk, Jr. (1967 - 1973)

Superintendent of Police

James B. Conlisk, Jr. (1967 – 1973)


Appointed: July 1967

Resigned: November 1, 1973

Served: 6 years, 3 months

Born: October 2, 1918

Died: September 29, 1984 in Maywood, Illinois

Cemetery: Unknown



Transition of Office: Upon Conlisk’s resignation First Deputy Superintendent of Police James M. Rochford was named Interim Superintendent of Police by Mayor Richard Joseph Daley.

50TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Superintendent of Police Orlando Winfield Wilson (1960 - 1967)

Superintendent of Police

Orlando Winfield Wilson (1960 – 1967)


Appointed: March 2, 1960

Resigned: July 1, 1967

Served: 7 years, 3 months, 28 days

Born: May 15, 1900 in Veblen, South Dakota

Died: October 18, 1972 in Poway, California

Cemetery: Unknown



Transition of Office: Upon Wilson’s resignation First Deputy Superintendent of Police James B. Conlisk, Jr. was named Interim Superintendent of Police by Mayor Richard Joseph Daley.

49TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Commissioner of Police Timothy J. O'Connor (1950 - 1964)

Commissioner of Police

Timothy J. O’Connor (1950 – 1964)


Appointed: November 14, 1950

Resigned: December 29, 1964

Served: 14 years, 1 month, 15 days

Born: January 27, 1902 in Chicago, Illinois

Died: December 31, 1968 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Holy Sepulchre Cemetery – Alsip, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon O’Connor’s resignation First Deputy Commissioner of Police Kyran V. Phelan was named Interim Commissioner of Police by Mayor Richard Joseph Daley.

48TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Commissioner of Police John C. Prendergast (1946 - 1950)

Commissioner of Police

John C. Prendergast (1946 – 1950)


Appointed: January 1, 1946

Resigned: November 16, 1950

Served: 3 years, 10 months, 15 days

Born: October 19, 1884 in Chicago, Illinois

Died: January 16, 1958 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: St. Mary Catholic Cemetery – Evergreen Park, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon Prendergast’s resignation Timothy J. O’Connor was immediately appointed Commissioner of Police by Mayor Martin Henry Kennelly.

47TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Commissioner of Police James P. Allman (1931 - 1946)

Commissioner of Police

James P. Allman (1931 – 1946)


Appointed: October 1, 1931

Resigned: January 1, 1946

Served: 14 years, 3 months, 0 days

Born: October 16, 1875 in County Kerry, Ireland

Died: February 24, 1956 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Mount Olivet Catholic Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois

46TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Commissioner of Police William F. Russell (1928 - 1930)

Commissioner of Police

William F. Russell (1928 – 1930)


Appointed: September 12, 1928

Resigned: June 16, 1930

Served: 1 year, 10 months, 15 days

Born: December 1, 1874 in County Clare, Ireland

Died: April 1, 1946 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Holy Sepulchre Cemetery – Alsip, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon Russell’s resignation First Deputy Commissioner of Police John H. Alcock was named Interim Commissioner of Police by Mayor William Hale Thompson. On June 17, 1930, Russell was reinstated as Captain and remained on the Department until resigning on January 1, 1936.

45TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Commissioner of Police Michael Hughes (1927 - 1928)

Commissioner of Police

Michael Hughes (1927 – 1928)


Appointed: April 18, 1927

Resigned: July 25, 1928

Served: 1 year, 3 months, 11 days

Born: September 24, 1870 in County Galway, Ireland

Died: June 21, 1956 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Holy Sepulchre Cemetery – Alsip, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon Hughes’ resignation First Deputy Commissioner of Police William F. Russell was named Acting Commissioner of Police by Mayor William Hale Thompson. On August 1, 1928, Hughes was reinstated as Captain and remained on the Department until resigning on December 16, 1935.

44TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police Morgan A. Collins (1923 - 1927)

General Superintendent of Police

Morgan A. Collins (1923 – 1927)


Appointed: April 16, 1923

Resigned: April 14, 1927

Served: 3 year, 11 months, 29 days

Born: April 5, 1866 in Chicago, Illinois

Died: March 21, 1946 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Calvary Cemetery – Evanston, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon Collins’ resignation Captain Michael Hughes was named Acting Commissioner of Police by Mayor William Emmett Dever.

43RD HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police Charles C. Fitzmorris (1920 - 1923)

General Superintendent of Police

Charles C. Fitzmorris (1920 – 1923)


Appointed: November 10, 1920

Resigned: April 16, 1923

Served: 2 years, 5 months, 6 days

Born: May 1, 1884 in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Died: August 18, 1948 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: All Saints Catholic Cemetery – Des Plaines, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon Fitzmorris’s resignation Captain Morgan A. Collins was immediately appointed General Superintendent of Police by Mayor William Hale Thompson.

42ND HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police John J. Garrity (1918 - 1920)

General Superintendent of Police

John J. Garrity (1918 – 1920)


Appointed: November 25, 1918

Resigned: November 10, 1920

Served: 1 year, 11 months, 15 days

Born: June 21, 1869 in Chicago, Illinois

Died: August 10, 1940 in Proviso Township, Cook County, Illinois

Cemetery: Calvary Cemetery – Evanston, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon Garrity’s resignation Captain Morgan A. Collins was immediately appointed General Superintendent of Police by Mayor William Hale Thompson.

41ST HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police Herman F. Schuettler (1917 - 1918)

General Superintendent of Police

Herman F. Schuettler (1917 – 1918)


Appointed: January 11, 1917

Resigned: August 22, 1918

Served: 1 year, 7 months, 11 days

Born: July 14, 1861 in Chicago, Illinois

Died: August 22, 1918 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Rosehill Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois



Transition of Office: Schuettler took ill while in office and passed away. Prior to Schuettler’s death First Deputy Superintendent of Police John H. Alcock was named Acting General Superintendent of Police by Mayor William Hale Thompson. Upon Schuettler’s death Alcock was named Interim General Superintendent of Police by Mayor William Hale Thompson.

40TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police Charles C. Healy (1915 - 1916)

General Superintendent of Police

Charles C. Healy (1915 – 1917)


Appointed: April 26, 1915

Resigned: January 11, 1917

Served: 1 year, 8 months, 16 days

Born: May 14, 1856 in New York

Died: 1959

Cemetery: Unknown



Transition of Office: Upon Healy’s resignation First Deputy Superintendent of Police Herman F. Schuettler was named Interim General Superintendent of Police by Mayor William Hale Thompson. On January 12, 1917, Healy was reinstated as Captain and remained on the Department until resigning on January 5, 1918.

39TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police James Gleason (1913 - 1915)

General Superintendent of Police

James Gleason (1913 – 1915)


Appointed: November 3, 1913

Resigned: April 26, 1915

Served: 1 year, 5 months, 23 days

Born: January 13, 1861 in Chicago, Illinois

Died: November 16, 1929 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Calvary Cemetery – Evanston, Illinois



Note: On April 27, 1915, Gleason was reinstated as Captain and remained on the Department until he passed away on November 16, 1929.

38TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police John McWeeny (1911 - 1913)

General Superintendent of Police

John McWeeny (1911 – 1913)


Appointed: April 4, 1911

Resigned: October 23, 1913

Served: 2 years, 6 months, 19 days

Born: March 16, 1857 in Manistee, Michigan

Died: December 26, 1934 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Mount Olivet Catholic Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon McWeeny’s resignation First Deputy Superintendent of Police Herman F. Schuettler was named Interim General Superintendent of Police by Mayor Carter H. Harrison, Jr. On October 24, 1913, McWeeny was reinstated as Captain and remained on the Department until resigning on November 18, 1913.

37TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police LeRoy T. Steward (1909 - 1911)

General Superintendent of Police

LeRoy T. Steward (1909 – 1911)


Appointed: August 15, 1909

Resigned: 1911

Served: 2 years

Born: March 24, 1862 in Dayton, Ohio

Died: April 26, 1944 in Watervliet Township, Michigan

Cemetery: Woodland Cemetery – Dayton, Ohio



Transition of Office: Upon Steward’s resignation First Deputy Superintendent Herman F. Schuettler was named Interim General Superintendent of Police by Mayor Carter H. Harrison, Jr.

36TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police George M. Shippy (1907 - 1909)

General Superintendent of Police

George M. Shippy (1907 – 1909)


Appointed: April 15, 1907

Resigned: August 3, 1909

Served: 2 years, 3 months, 19 days

Born: June 24, 1854 in Chicago, Illinois

Died: April 13, 1913 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Oak Woods Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon Shippy’s resignation First Deputy Superintendent of Police Herman F. Schuettler was named Interim General Superintendent of Police by Mayor Fred A. Busse.

35TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police John M. Collins (1905 - 1907)

General Superintendent of Police

John M. Collins (1905 – 1907)


Appointed: July 26, 1905

Resigned: April 15, 1907

Served: 1 year, 8 months, 21 days

Born: c1840

Died: 1916



Transition of Office: Upon Collins’s resignation First Deputy Superintendent of Police George M. Shippy was immediately appointed General Superintendent of Police by Mayor Fred A. Busse.

34TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police Francis O'Neil (1901 - 1905)

General Superintendent of Police

Francis O’Neil (1901 – 1905)


Appointed: April 30, 1901

Resigned: July 24, 1905

Served: 4 year, 2 months, 24 days

Born: August 28, 1848 in Cork, Ireland

Died: January 28, 1936 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Mount Olivet Catholic Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon O’Neil’s resignation First Deputy Superintendent of Police Herman F. Schuettler was named Interim General Superintendent of Police by Mayor Fred A. Busse.

33RD HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police Joseph Kipley (1897 - 1901)

General Superintendent of Police

Joseph Kipley (1897 – 1901)


Appointed: April 16, 1897

Resigned: April 23, 1901

Served: 4 year, 0 months, 7 days

Born: January 6, 1848 in Paterson, New Jersey

Died: February 6, 1904 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Mount Olivet Catholic Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon Kipley’s resignation John E. Ptacek was named Interim General Superintendent of Police by Mayor Carter H. Harrison Jr.

32ND HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police John J. Badenoch (1895 - 1897)

General Superintendent of Police

John J. Badenoch (1895 – 1897) Master Mason


Appointed: April 11, 1895

Resigned: April 1897

Served: 2 years, 0 months

Born: April 5, 1851 in Banff, Aberdeenshire, Scotland

Died: April 27, 1933 in Oak Park, Illinois

Cemetery: Rosehill Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois

31ST HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police Michael Brennan (1893 - 1895)

General Superintendent of Police

Michael Brennan (1893 – 1895)


Appointed: September 11, 1893

Resigned: April 1895

Served: 1 year, 7 months

Born: 1844 in Ireland

Died: April 9, 1920 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Calvary Cemetery – Evanston, Illinois

30TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police Robert W. McClaughry (1891 - 1893)

General Superintendent of Police

Robert W. McClaughry (1891 – 1893)


Appointed: May 18, 1891

Resigned: May 1893

Served: 2 years

Born: July 22, 1839 in Fountain Green, Illinois

Died: November 9, 1920 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Monmouth Cemetery – Monmouth, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon McClaughry’s resignation Assistant Superintendent of Police Michael Brennan was named Interim General Superintendent of Police by Mayor Carter H. Harrison Jr.

29TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police Frederick H. Marsh (1890 - 1891)

General Superintendent of Police

Frederick H. Marsh (1890 – 1891)


Appointed: January 1, 1890

Resigned: 1891

Served: 1 year

Born: 1842 in Dover District Kent, England

Died: May 3, 1929 in Mount Morris, Illinois

Cemetery: Riverview Cemetery – Oregon Township, Ogle County, IL

28TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police George W. Hubbard (1888 - 1889)

General Superintendent of Police

George W. Hubbard (1888 – 1889)


Appointed: April 17, 1888

Resigned: 1889

Served: 1 year

Born: February 22, 1850 in Cambridge, Maryland

Died: Unknown

Cemetery: Unknown

27TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police Frederick Ebersold (1885 - 1888)

General Superintendent of Police

Frederick Ebersold (1885 – 1888)


Appointed: October 26, 1885

Resigned: February 14, 1888

Served: 2 years, 3 months, 19 days

Born: March 30, 1841 in Zweibrucken, Bavaria

Died: January 21, 1900 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Rosehill Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon Ebersold’s resignation Frederick H. Marsh was named Interim General Superintendent of Police by Mayor John A. Roche.

26TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police Austin J. Doyle (1882 - 1885)

General Superintendent of Police

Austin J. Doyle (1882 – 1885)


Appointed: November 13, 1882

Resigned: October 15, 1885

Served: 2 years, 11 months, 2 days

Born: September 18, 1849 in Chicago, Illinois

Died: February 6, 1924 in New Orleans, Louisiana

Cemetery: Calvary Cemetery – Evanston, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon Doyle’s resignation Inspector Frederick Ebersold was named Interim General Superintendent of Police by Mayor Carter H. Harrison, Sr.

25TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police William J. McGarigle (1880 - 1882)

General Superintendent of Police

William J. McGarigle (1880 – 1882)


Appointed: December 13, 1880

Resigned: November 1882

Served: 1 year, 11 months

Born: September 12, 1850 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Died: April 29, 1917 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Unknown Cemetery – Milwaukee, Wisconsin



Transition of Office: Upon McGarigle’s resignation Department Secretary / Inspector Austin J. Doyle was immediately appointed General Superintendent of Police by Mayor Carter H. Harrison, Sr.

24TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police Simon O'Donnell (1879 - 1880)

General Superintendent of Police

Simon O’Donnell (1879 – 1880)


Appointed: December 15, 1879

Resigned: November 30, 1880

Served: 11 months, 15 days

Born: 1834 in Ireland

Died: August 3, 1893 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Calvary Cemetery – Evanston, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon O’Donnell’s resignation Captain William J. McGarigle was named Interim General Superintendent of Police by Mayor Carter H. Harrison, Sr.

23RD HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police Valerius A. Seavey (1878 - 1879)

General Superintendent of Police

Valerius A. Seavey (1878 – 1879) Master Mason


Appointed: July 30, 1878

Resigned: September 7, 1879

Served: 1 year, 1 month, 8 days

Born: 1840 in Sandown, New Hamspire

Died: September 7, 1879 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Unknown – New Hampden, New Hamspire



Transition of Office: Seavey took ill in office and passed away. Prior to Seavey’s death Deputy Superintendent of Police Joseph Dixon was named Acting General Superintendent of Police by Mayor Carter H. Harrison, Sr. Dixon’s resignation was later demanded by Mayor Harrison and he was replaced as Acting General Superintendent of Police when the Mayor appointed Simon O’Donnell to Deputy Superintendent of Police and then named him Acting General Superintendent of Police. Upon Seavey’s death O’Donnell was named Interim General Superintendent of Police by Mayor Carter H. Harrison, Sr.

22ND HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


City Marshall Roswell Eaton Goodell (1875 - 1876)

City Marshall Roswell Eaton Goodell (1875 – 1876)


Appointed: November 22, 1875

Removed from Office: June 5, 1876

Served: 6 months, 14 days

Born: October 21, 1825 in Pomfret, Connecticut

Died: October 19, 1903 in Denver, Colorado

Cemetery: Fairmount Cemetery – Denver, Colorado



Note: By vote of the City Council on May 31, 1876 the office of City Marshall was abolished. Incumbent Mayor Harvey Doolittle Colvin ratified this vote on June 5, 1876 and informed the city council that Goodell had already been been removed from office by Elected Mayor Thomas Hoyne. The Chicago Police Department from this point forward would be headed by only one person.

21ST HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police Michael C. Hickey (1875 - 1878)

General Superintendent of Police

Michael C. Hickey (1875 – 1878)


Appointed: October 7, 1875

Resigned: August 1, 1878

Served: 2 years, 9 months, 25 days

Born: 1830 in Ireland

Died: August 31, 1900 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Calvary Cemetery – Evanston, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon Hickey’s resignation Captain Valerius A. Seavey was named Interim General Superintendent of Police by Mayor Harvey Doolittle Colvin.

20TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


City Marshall George L. Dunlap (1875 - 1875)

City Marshall George L. Dunlap (1875 – 1875)


Appointed: July 30, 1875

Resigned: November 22, 1875

Served: 3 months, 23 days

Born: 1830 in Maine

Died: Unknown

Cemetery: Unknown



Transition of Office: Upon Dunlap’s resignation R. E. Goodell was appointed City Marshall by Mayor Harvey Doolittle Colvin.

Note: The Board of Police Commissioners was legislated out of existence in 1875. As a replacement the office of City Marshall was revived and took over the duties of the Board of Police Commissioners. Dunlap became the 1st City Marshall to be appointed by the Mayor under a new law which changed how the Office of City Marshall was filled. Prior to Dunlap the City Marshall was an elected office which had been previously abolished.

19TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police Jacob Rehm (1873 - 1875)

General Superintendent of Police

Jacob Rehm (1873 – 1875)


Appointed: December 22, 1873

Resigned: October 4, 1875

Served: 1 year, 9 months, 12 days

Born: December 7, 1828 in Alsace Loraine, Germany

Died: March 6, 1915 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Graceland Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon Rehm’s resignation Captain Michael C. Hickey was named Interim General Superintendent of Police by Mayor Harvey Doolittle Colvin.

18TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police Jacob Rehm (1866 - 1871)

General Superintendent of Police

Elmer Washburn (1872 – 1873)


Appointed: August 12, 1872

Resigned: December 29, 1873

Served: 1 year, 4 months, 17 days

Born: December 25, 1834 in East Bridgewater, Massachusetts

Died: November 23, 1918 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Oak Woods Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon Washburn’s resignation former General Superintendent of Police Jacob Rehm was immediately appointed General Superintendent of Police by Mayor Joseph Medill.

17TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police William Wallace Kennedy (1871 - 1872)

General Superintendent of Police

William Wallace Kennedy (1871 – 1872) Master Mason


Appointed: April 1871

Resigned: July 29, 1872

Served: 1 year, 3 months

Born: May 1830 in Boligee, Alabama

Died: September 20, 1900 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Rosehill Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon Kennedy’s resignation Warden Elmer Washborn of the Illinois Penitentiary was named Interim General Superintendent of Police by Mayor Joseph Medill.

16TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent Elmer Washburn (1866 - 1871)

General Superintendent of Police

Jacob Rehm (1866 – 1871)


Appointed: January 13, 1866

Resigned: 1871

Served: 5 years

Born: December 7, 1828 in Alsace Loraine, Germany

Died: March 6, 1915 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Graceland Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois

15TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police William Turtle (1863 - 1866)

General Superintendent of Police

William Turtle (1863 – 1865)


Appointed: April 23, 1864

Resigned: November 29, 1865

Served: 7 months, 6 days

Born: November 27, 1820 in Haddenham, Isle of Ely, Cambridgeshire, England

Died: February 14, 1887 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Rosehill Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon Turtle’s resignation former General Superintendent of Police Jacob Rehm was named interim General Superintendent of Police by Mayor John B. Rice.

14TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police Jacob Rehm (1863 - 1863)

General Superintendent of Police

Jacob Rehm (1863 – 1863)


Appointed: February 20, 1863

Resigned: July 3, 1863

Served: 4 months, 11 days

Born: December 7, 1828 in Alsace Loraine, Germany

Died: March 6, 1915 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Graceland Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon Rehm’s resignation Secretary of the Police Board Cyrus P. Bradley was appointed interim General Superintendent of Police by Mayor Francis C. Sherman.

13TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


General Superintendent of Police Cyrus Parker Bradley (1861 - 1862)

General Superintendent of Police

Cyrus Parker Bradley (1861 – 1862) Master Mason


Appointed: April 23, 1861

Resigned: 1862

Served: 1 year

Born: November 11, 1819 in Concord, New Hampshire

Died: March 6, 1865 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Rosehill Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois



Transition of Office: Upon Bradley’s resignation First Deputy Superintendent of Police Jacob Rehm was appointed interim General Superintendent of Police by Mayor Francis C. Sherman.

12TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


City Marshall Iver Lawson (1860 - 1861)

City Marshall Iver Lawson (1860 – 1861)


Elected: March 6, 1860

End of Term: March 4, 1861

Served: 1 Term – 11 months, 26 days

Born: Unknown

Died: Unknown

Cemetery: Unknown



Transition of Office: Lawson would be the last elected City Marshall as this office was abolished. Upon Lawson’s term ending he stayed on as Acting City Marshall until his replacement was appointed. The office of General Superintendent of Police was authorized as an appointed position chosen by the Mayor. On March 27, 1861, Jacob Rehm was appointed Deputy Superintendent and placed in charge of the police department until a General Superintendent was named. On April 6, 1861, Cyrus Parker Bradley was named Acting General Superintendent of Police.

11TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


City Marshall Jacob Rehm (1859 - 1860)

City Marshall Jacob Rehm (1859 – 1860)


Elected: March 1, 1859

End of Term: March 5, 1860

Served: 1 Term – 1 year, 0 months, 4 days

Born: December 7, 1828 in Alsace Loraine, Germany

Died: March 6, 1915 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Graceland Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois

10TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


City Marshall James M. Donnelly (1856 - 1859)

City Marshall James M. Donnelly (1856 – 1859)


Elected: March 4, 1856

End of Term: February 28, 1859

Served: 3 Terms – 2 years, 11 months, 24 days

Born: Unknown

Died: Unknown

Cemetery: Unknown

9TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


Chief of Police Cyrus Parker Bradley (1855 - 1856)

Chief of Police Cyrus Parker Bradley (1855 – 1856) Master Mason


Appointed: May 26, 1855

Resigned: 1859

Served: 1 year, 0 months, 0 days

Born: November 11, 1819 in Concord, New Hampshire

Died: March 6, 1865 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Rosehill Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois



Note: Bradley was the 1st head of the Department to be appointed. Prior to him taking office the “Heads of the Department” were elected. Bradley’s entry to office marked the first time that two people headed the Department. Even though two people now headed the Department, the Chief of Police position, later to be renamed the General Superintendent of Police, mostly acted as a figurehead while the City Marshall made the final decision on most matters.

8TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


City Marshall Darius Knight (1854 - 1856)

City Marshall Darius Knights (1854 – 1856)


Elected: March 7, 1854

End of Term: March 3, 1856

Served: 1 Term – 1 year, 11 months, 24 days

Born: 1814 in Waterbury, Vermont

Died: October 22, 1882 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Oak Woods Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois



Transition of Office: It was half way into Knights’ term that the Chicago Police Department began to undergo a major reorganization. A “Chief of Police” was appointed and for the next six years the Department would be headed by two people, The Chief of Police (Appointed) and the City Marshall (Elected) each of which would submit their own annual reports to the Mayor. The elected position of City Marshall would soon be phased out.

7TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


City Marshall James L. Howe (1852 - 1854)

City Marshall James L. Howe (1852 – 1854)


Elected: March 2, 1852

End of Term: March 6, 1854

Served: 1 Term – 2 years, 0 months, 4 days

Born: c1815

Died: 1863

Cemetery: Unknown


6TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


City Marshall Ambrose Burnham (1848 - 1852)

City Marshall Ambrose Burnham (1848 – 1852)


Elected: March 7, 1848

End of Term: March 1, 1852

Served: 2 Terms – 3 years, 11 months, 22 days

Born: August 7, 1811

Died: October 21, 1870

Cemetery: Unknown

5TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


City Marshall Philip Dean (1844 - 1847)

City Marshall Philip Dean (1844 – 1847)


Elected: March 5, 1844

End of Term: March 6, 1848

Served: 2 Terms – 4 years, 0 months, 1 day

Born: June 24, 1804 in Woodstock, Connecticut

Died: November 17, 1861 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Rosehill Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois

4TH HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


City Marshall Orson Smith (1842 - 1844)

City Marshall Orson Smith (1842 – 1844)


Elected: March 1, 1842

End of Term: March 4, 1844

Served: 1 Term – 2 years, 0 months, 3 days

Born: April 29, 1801 in Barstow, Vermont

Died: January 29, 1863 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Rosehill Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois

3RD HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


High Constable Samuel James Lowe (1839 - 1842)

High Constable Samuel James Lowe (1839 – 1842) Master Mason


Elected: March 5, 1839

End of Term: February 28, 1842

Served: 1 Term – 2 years, 11 months, 13 days

Born: 1799 in England

Died: 1851 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Rosehill Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois

2ND HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


High Constable John Shrigley (1837 - 1839)

High Constable John Shrigley (1837 – 1839)


Elected: May 2, 1837

End of Term: March 4, 1839

Served: 1 Term – 1 year, 10 months, 1 day

Born: November 22, 1802 in the Parish of Saddleworth, Yorkshire, England

Died: August 15, 1853 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Graceland Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois

1ST HEAD OF THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT


High Constable Orsemus Morrison (1835 - 1937)

High Constable Orsemus Morrison (1835 – 1837)


Elected: August 5, 1835

End of Term: May 2, 1837

Served: 1 Term – 1 year, 8 months, 27 days

Born: 1805 in Cambridge, New York

Died: January 4, 1864 in Chicago, Illinois

Cemetery: Graceland Cemetery – Chicago, Illinois