A Historic Find: 100-Year-Old Police Docket Unearthed at Wyoming Thrift Store
Amidst the mundane donations at a Rescued Treasures Thrift Store in Casper, Wyoming, staff made an extraordinary discovery that proved the adage "don’t judge a book by its cover" to be true. While meticulously sifting through donated items, their eyes fell upon a 315-page, crimson leather-bound book.
Upon opening the enigmatic volume, they realized they had stumbled upon a precious relic of the past — a police docket dating back to 1904. This remarkable artifact meticulously documented the various crimes that plagued Casper a century ago, providing an unprecedented glimpse into the challenges faced by law enforcement officers of that era.
Crimes of a Bygone Era: A Snapshot of Early Casper
The docket meticulously cataloged a wide range of offenses, reflecting the societal norms and concerns of the time. One entry detailed the punishment for maintaining a house of prostitution — a hefty $100 fine. In contrast, such an offense today would incur far more severe consequences, including potential imprisonment and substantial fines.
Another curious offense was riding a horse while intoxicated. This equine transgression carried a modest fine of $4.10, a far cry from the repercussions of driving under the influence in modern times.
A Glimpse into the Past: Unveiling Casper’s Policing History
The priceless docket has since been returned to the City of Casper and the Casper Police Department, where it will be preserved as a testament to the city’s policing history. Wyoming Rescue Mission Community Engagement Coordinator Adam Flack remarked on the significance of this find.
"This docket holds a wealth of history, offering a fascinating glimpse into early crimes and daily occurrences that our dedicated police officers faced at the time," Flack said. "While much has changed, many challenges remain the same, though ‘riding while intoxicated’ likely no longer refers to horseback."
The Wyoming Rescue Mission shared the discovery on its Facebook page, eliciting a profound response. Casper Police Chief Keith McPheeters expressed the historical importance of the docket.
"The history of any organization is an important aspect of its culture and its future… We will ensure that this record of our history is preserved with honor and dignity," McPheeters asserted.
Executive Director Brad Hopkins couldn’t contain his excitement about the find.
"It is incredible that our wonderful Rescued Treasures Thrift Store staff were able to recognize such a historic treasure," Hopkins exclaimed.
A Treasure Trove of Law Enforcement History
The National Archives houses an extensive collection of historical Law Enforcement Records, spanning from the 1790s to the early 2000s. These records provide invaluable insights into the evolution of federal law enforcement agencies and courts.
The Casper Police Department docket, with its detailed accounts of early 20th-century offenses, adds a valuable chapter to this vast collection. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement officers throughout history and underscores the importance of preserving our collective heritage.
