Apart from the cabs, the second most seen sight in Manhattan would
probably be the police car. The police are always whirling around in the
busiest of corners, seen enforcing the law or merely patrolling and
keeping pedestrians and the countless tourists safe. As frustrating as
it may be for drivers or people who decide to drive themselves around
instead of making use of New York charter bus rental services or getting
into the subway, the police force are most sought after and thereafter
appreciated. Nobody really understands the job of the police, therefore,
we decided to pay the NYPD police a visit – thanks to some
encouragement from a friend.
Frankly, we weren't too enthusiastic about it, at first.
As critical as we can be about the services that these unsung heroes deliver (yes, I know there are countless shows that celebrated the heroic services of our police forces), maybe it was time to hear the other side of the story. There is a whole museum dedicated to the most popular police force in the world, the NYPD, in the form of The New York City Police Museum.
Three entire floors dedicated to all types of things related to police work. From the type of vehicles they drive to the equipment that they carry around with them. I have to say that I was frankly quite overwhelmed with such details because it was very well explained and illustrated in there. What was interesting for me was to take in how the police force have evolved over time. I was aghast with the kind of place that the police force had to stay in during the 19th century.
And of course, there was a floor that showcased the jail cells where you get to experience what it feels like to be behind bars. It wasn't fun.
I saw increased interest and enthusiasm for the weapons section and also the part where they showcased some famous criminals, the things they did, what happened to them and the weapons they used.
What was quite sad about the whole trip was that there was this whole section that was dedicated to the 9/11 event. But it was good to know, anyway.
All in all, it was a very enlightening experience. I would say that we should all bring our kids to the New York City Police Museum just to show them what kind of lifestyle and the dedication that the police force have. After that, we had much more respect for the faith and motivated discipline that policemen possess – maybe something that fast-walking, easy-talking modern business people like you and me can't seem to comprehend nor come to terms with.
*** ***
The New York City Police Museum
100, Old Slip, New York, NY 1005-3539
Tel: (212) 480-3100
Web: www.nycpm.org
Open from Monday to Saturday 10am till 5pm
