Our History
Today is: Monday, September 06, 2010
The Guardian Civic League Inc. of Philadelphia, local chapter of The National Black Police Association, was founded in 1956 for the purpose of bringing together those members of the Philadelphia police department who were interested in civic betterment, through close cooperation between the police and the communities which they serve.
The founder and first president was Alphonso Deal, since then our former presidents are listed as follows: Harold Arnold, James Holley, Harold James, John Green, Jimmy Ghee, Ronald Oliver, William E. Blackman, David E. Fisher, WM. Don Rodgers, James Walker Jr., Willie L. Williams, III , Kathryn D. McNeill-Battle, and presently; we present; Rochelle Bilal our second Female President since it's existence. Indeed; we are strong.
Since it's inception, The League has spoken out on many important matters that affect the lives of all Philadelphians. The League has also developed and implemented various programs throughout the city that are today benefiting both blacks and poor Philadelphians.
The Guardian Civic League Inc. has been gaining more momentum in the Philadelphia area via our community-oriented programming. Each day there are new requests for our services. Such request not only deal with the adult population, but includes the needs and problems that are associated with our youth. There can be no doubt that our youth are the key and hope to a better tomorrow.
- In 1881, the Philadelphia Police Department hired its first African-American police officer.
- In 1887, the police department was put under control of the city's Department of Public Safety. Two years later, the PPD inaugurated its mounted patrol (which was disbanded in 2004).
- In 1906, the motorcycle was introduced to the Philadelphia police.
- In 1939, radio-installed patrol cars were put into use.
- In 1979, the PPD reached its peak size at approximately 8,500 officers.