Coventry Police

Coventry Police Force, was formed on 7th March 1836. Manpower, 1 Superintendent, 1 Inspector, 1 Sergeant and 20 Constables. The Constable's duty times were, 12 to work 10pm-6am, 4 to work a split shift 9am-3pm & 6pm-10pm, 4 to work split shift 6am-9am & 3pm-10pm. 1 Constable to remain at the station house. Those shifts were subject to a monthly change over. The wards covered were, Earl Street, Spon Street, Cross Cheaping, Bishop Street, Gosford Street and a North ward. Warwickshire Police were formed in 1857. Coventry had a "Police Force" while Warwickshire was a "Constabulary". There is a difference between the two. Very broadly speaking, Constabularies were responsible for policing rural and semi-rural areas, whereas Police Forces were responsible for policing of urban and built-up areas. (That, however, is a generalisation, riddled with exceptions).

CovPoliceHistory. With you all the way - the super was Prosser, Bow Street Runner from London; Insp Forrester; Sgt Broomfield. The keeper of the Watchhouse was Matthews. The quaint old projecting porch of the Talbot Inn was used by them. One of the resting places they used was a flight of steps leading to a door of St John's in Hill St. But discipline was most lax and cases coming before Magistrates were often arranged. One of the leading constables could square things with an Alderman, who would let the prisoner off with a caution. In 1818 the brother of the High Constable was arrested for assault, locked in the Watchhouse - he cut his throat and died. Don't yer just luv the old place!

Been referenced on here before and there is another shot of it but another angle

There is a Council Petition under way started by the likes of Councillor Roger Bailey to stop the Police Museum collection moving to Birmingham if anyone else wants to sign. Telegraph report Petitions link

Hi CovPoliceHistory, This is a very long shot indeed, but I consider it worth a try. Within my family history is a gentleman named David Poole who is described as a 'Police Sargeant', originating from Keresley, Coventry. He married Sarah Pinfold (born in Arley, Warks) in 1869, and they set up home in Jenner Street, before moving to Spencer Street, and then finally Eagle Street. I have always assumed he must have been based within the city centre area given that the married couple lived within that specific area? Do you have any reference to him, or can you make an educated guess as to where he might have worked/been based? Many thanks for any info. OddSock

There are several articles in the newspaper archive about PC David Poole. In 1866 he followed a suspect who had stolen a purse on Coventry Station and apprehended him in the Bullfield. In 1892 he was promoted from 1st to 2nd class sergeant by the watch committee. He retired 1894 after 26 1/2 years service and was presented with a clock. So I would imagine he served all that time in the City. He sounds as if he was a well respected man.

Thank you Anne, that's an amazing find! You really get a sense of the man's character and values - very inspiring.

That is why I like the newspaper archive site, you often find these little snippets that can add character instead if just dates and addresses. Do you know what happened to the clock ?

Hi Anne, This is the first I'm learning about his clock, or the man himself! Sarah Pinfold/Penfold (depending on which documents you refer to!), born in Arley, Warwickshire, was originally married and living in Fillongley, Warwickshire. At some point, she leaves her then husband and turns up in Coventry, marrying David Poole!! Up until now, I've been unable to learn more about David - but it does appear that my Coventry roots originate from their marriage!? Would be fascinating to find out how they first met! I'm not sure what happened to her original husband - did he die or did she just leave him (back then, divorce was the preserve of the wealthy - most people just moved away and remarried!)?

Oddsock, when David Poole marries Sarah Clarke (her married name) in 1869 she is a widow. There is a record for a death of Joseph Clarke in 1865. Sarah Pinfold had married Joseph Clarke 4th May 1852, both were servants. David and Sarah grew up a few miles from each other so I suppose they could have know each other from the past. Sorry if you already have this info, but I hope it helps.

St Mary Street and old Police Station