As reported in an earlier Post, I have been collecting Badges from the Old County Probation Departments (in N.J). A substantial majority of these items came into my possession during this millennium. While I have had good luck finding them, I still do not have all 21 County Departments.
When the State assumed the financial cost of the State Judiciary in 1994, County Judges became NJ Superior Court Judges. All their "County" functions also became State functions. So as of that date there were no more "County" Probation Officers, and their badges became obsolete. That has been their status for the last 30 years.
I started this Collection a little ahead of the State Takeover, and have obtained a nice group; but there is always a couple that are needed to make the set complete. If anyone has one of these old badges contact me for sale or trade. I have a few doubles.
That nice silver tone Badge above is from ATLANTIC COUNTY. It is Number 1 alphabetically in my display. For its age it is in great condition.
Based on the State Seal at the center of this badge I make the judgement that it was made mid to late 1950's if not earlier. Pin and clasp are in working order. Letters are black enamel fill.
This Badge is a reminder of the great years under county rule. Each department had its own identity, and unique ways of doing their job. But the bill to county tax payers drove the movement for consolidation. The power base moved to Trenton (State Capital), with the local Chiefs now reporting to Court Administrators, who in turn got their marching orders from the "Administrative Office of the Courts" at the State Capital.
The Badges in the display case are my full collection, and the Atlantic Badge is first. I have had it well over 30 years. It was a gift from a friend who, sadly is no longer with us.
I keep this Collection in a nice Oak and Glass display case. It catches my eye every day, and flashes me a fine memory or two. I'll post another Badge in a month or so.
No comments:
Post a Comment