Hudson County is a small but very important county in New Jersey. It can trace its roots back some 400 years when Captain Henry Hudson sailed what now is the NY-NJ Port area.
Separating Hudson County from Manhattan is the Hudson River. The many communities here all have a great view of The Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, The George Washington Bridge and The Empire State Building. There use to be a great view of the World Trade Center, but that has all changed.
Jersey City is the County Seat. It is where the first probation office in New Jersey opened in the early 1900's. It is still in business, but now as a State agency.
Richard Stevens was the first probation officer in the State. He made his rounds in Hudson County and was recognized for his efforts with offenders involved with alcohol abuse. The guy came from a wealthy family, and used his social status very effectively. This writer is not sure how successful his work with alcoholics was, but does know that today there are an inordinate number of bars in the county. Maybe that's a tribute to the man.
The badge, pictured above, was acquired in the late 1980's. It isn't Mr Stevens' badge for sure. It isn't even a probation officer shield. It has the title Investigator on it. In fact it reads "Senior Investigator."
It is a nice looking shield, and still in very good condition. The center has a multi color State Seal which looks impressive on the gold finish. The lettering is recessed blue enamel spelling out: Hudson County Superior Court.
Since Hudson is one of the major counties in New Jersey I would sure like to obtain an "Officer" Badge. They are difficult - to impossible to get. I've tried for 40 years without success. If anyone wants to make a donation I know exactly where to place it. For now this item will be the "Hudson" representative in my Jersey Probation Collections.
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