It has taken a while for me to shine a light on something other then a badge, but times are changing. I know I am getting older. It has been roughly 60 years since I started collecting police memorabilia. I certainly don't believe it.
Like other Collectors, I have grabbed a few items that are not a targeted NJ Badge, but are Law Enforcement related. In this post you will see, in one shot of the camera, a few items that grace the walls of my den (or museum as I like to call it).
Lets start by looking at the bottom of the picture. It features two old lanterns. The one on the left was made in New York and sold to many police departments in the East Coast. This one used an oiled fueled wick to generate light. Later models had a retractable lens protector, that when opened and shut flashed light forward. Because of that feature it was known as the first flashlight.
The lantern to the right was a an early 1900 battery operated tool in the emergency equipment. It used a bulb in its red dome light, as well as in the forward search light. It was made of aluminum and quite easy to carry. Both of these lights make an interesting complimentary addition to my general theme of badges.
Looking at the center of the picture one will see a flint lock pistol. I was tempted to say antique because of its age, but in reality it is only 60 years old. It is a gun that I made from a kit manufactured by Connecticut Valley Firearms. I thought at one time that I would collect firearms but that was just too costly a hobby.
On the top there is one long nightstick that I used to hang some old law enforcement items that are no longer in use. Dangling down low with a set of wooden handles is a "come-along." This one is made with a mean set of chain links, which when used can inflict major pain (and cooperation). Also hanging are a couple different whistles, handcuff keys, and a large Jail Key.
These items seem to attract the eye of my visitors which I certainly like, but I would prefer visitors focus more on my N.J. badge Collection. Well it doesnt really matter as I do the focusing on a regular basis. So all is well.
Stay safe.
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