Emily G.'s Work Experience Project

Exploring Carmarthenshire's Policing Heritage

While today's police are generally seen as respected and peaceful, it's fascinating to look back at how things used to be. Our collection of police weapons throughout history serves as a reminder that it wasn’t always this way. The items on display, especially the weapons (items 4-9 & 11), illustrate a blend of beautiful craftsmanship and the harsh reality of their intended use. They capture a time when police intervention often meant physical force, yet also reflect the status of the officers who carried them, thanks to their intricate designs.

You might recognise some familiar pieces, such as the Carmarthenshire Police Force Badge (item 1) and the Whistle (item 2). However, these were quite rare compared to the equipment we see on officers today. When they were first made alongside the founding of the Carmarthenshire police force in the early 19th century, the force was quite small, with only five officers covering the entire county. 

Over the years, the force has seen quite a bit of change, but one thing that has stayed the same is the truncheon (item 9). Unlike the modern police batons we’re familiar with today, this historical version prompts us to think about the connection between past police officers and their weapons. The items on display are made from a softer wood, rather than metal, and interestingly, only this particular piece shows signs of wear, while the others look as good as new. This invites the question of how often these impressive weapons were used and for what purpose. The beautiful decorations on these items also invite us to appreciate the care that went into making them, as well as the potential pride their users felt in displaying such power.

You may also encounter some less familiar items, like the Rattle and the Watchman’s Clock (items 12 & 13). These belonged to the Nightwatchmen, who existed before the official police force. Their job was all about keeping the peace and recording where people were, and their Rattle helped to announce their presence to deter any troublemakers, while their Clock helped keep track of public locations.

The need for such measures can be understood in the context of the economic and political challenges faced in Carmarthenshire and Wales during the 19th and 20th centuries, especially with events like The Rebecca Riots (1839) prompting a stronger police presence. 

Though today we see the police as a source of protection, it's easy to forget how this service developed over time. There’s a rich history to explore regarding crime and policing in Carmarthenshire and Wales as a whole, and it truly helps us appreciate the evolution of law enforcement and public safety.