Mobile Police Department History
In February, 1871, Robert M. Quinn was elected as Chief and served until W. M. Barlow was elected in 1871. Colonel H. Milne was elected Chief in 1874 and served until September, 1875. In September, 1875, Theodore L. Eastburn was elected as Chief and remained in office until he was replaced by Colonel E. M. Underhill on March 15, 1879.
Because of severe financial problems, the Alabama Legislature on February 11, 1879, repealed the old charter and established a new governmental agency known as the Port of Mobile. The new government consisted of three Port Commissioners appointed by the Governor, and eight members of a Board of Police Commissioners elected by the citizens.
As a result of the new government, W. H. Williamson was elected Chief of Police on March 19, 1879. During this period the title of Chief once again was changed to Captain of Police.
John J. Crowley was elected Chief of Police on March 18, 1885, and served until March, 1889, when H. H. Slatter was elected Chief. Richard Felder was elected Chief in March, 1890, and remained in office until he was replaced by Peter Burke on March 28, 1894. Chief Burke served the City of Mobile until March 22, 1897, when a very popular citizen of the time, C. Walter Soost, became Chief. It was during Chief Soost's reign that the new Police Building opened at 57 St. Emanuel Street. Chief Soost resigned as Chief on March 15, 1903, and John Case was elected.
In March, 1905 Edward T. Rondeau was elected Chief and served until March 3, 1909. After serving as Chief, Mr. Rondeau returned to the police force as Captain of Detectives. At that time Captain Rondeau was 67 years of age.
