Problems That Elmhurst Cops Faced In 1925

ELMHURST, IL – The Elmhurst Police Department is celebrating its 100th year, prompting the chief to reveal why the department was created in the first place.

At Monday's City Council meeting, Mayor Scott Levin read a proclamation noting the department's founding in 1925.

In his remarks, Police Chief Michael McLean said Chief Henry Wolf created the department.

"Prior to that, Elmhurst had a series of town marshals who patrolled the town alone on motorcycle or horseback," McLean said. "When (Wolf) became chief, he and his first four officers dealt with a couple of problems. The reasons the police department was created were to deal with wild saloons and dangerous bicycles."

The chief added, "I think we're still working on the second one, but the more things change, the more they stay the same."

He was referring to the recent popularity of electric bicycles, which are causing new issues.

In the 1920s, Elmhurst's population growth surged, nearly tripling to 14,000. Now, about 46,000 live in Elmhurst.

When the police department was formed, 25 police call boxes were installed around town, according to the city.

The department's badge recognizes the history before its official creation. A blue mourning band on the center star honors Marshal Harry Magers, who sacrificed his life protecting Elmhurst in 1920, according to a recent police Facebook post.

The police department is a lot bigger these days, with 70 officers. It is considered one of the busiest police forces in the area.

Earlier this year, the City Council approved tearing down the 35-year-old police station and building a new one.