| This dissertation traces the evolution of policing within the Portsmouth, New Hampshire community from the colonial period to the beginning of the 20 th century. This historiography examines the myths, customs, traditions, leadership, facts and lore of the Portsmouth Police Department within the contextual influence of convergent local and world events. It is told as a story to help the reader understand the rich, colorful and sometime shameful contributions of these early protectors of Portsmouth. Contained are stories of Indian attacks, witches, prostitutes, executions, pirates, tithingmen, constables, and the early formation of police departments, to include Portsmouth as one of the first in America. The reasons behind local actions and issues are also examined from the facts gathered within the various collections and anthologies known to exist. This disciplined history of the Portsmouth Police Department also provides a platform from which to view the history of the Portsmouth region and early America. |
