Police History

Chief Constable William Freeth 1888-1911

Ex-army officer William Freeth became the Isle of Man’s second Chief Constable, a post he held for 23 years.

Initially there was little change but in 1893 a lot of men retired having completed 30 years’ service which was the contracted period. The year also saw the establishment of the Harbour Police Force in Douglas which relieved the constabulary of their duties marshalling passengers for the Steam Packet boats.

By the turn of the century, the crime rate had fallen, particularly incidents of drunkenness. The cost of maintaining the police force had risen considerably between 1867 and 1900 but this was more than compensated for by an increase in efficiency.

However, the constabulary were unable to cope with the large influx of visitors during the summer months and 12 officers were loaned from Manchester. This was seen as a holiday for the officers and press criticism led to police pensioners from Ireland being employed instead.

In 1899 Castletown’s new police station was built opposite the main entrance to Castle Rushen where it remains today.

The Force assisted in the royal visit of 1902 of King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra and at the first motor car races in 1904. Also in 1904, the Isle of Man welcomed the first HM Inspectors of Constabulary who recommended some changes which were gradually implemented.

Chief Constable Freeth relinquished command in July 1911.

Information up to the 1980s reproduced from the book Isle of Man Constabulary by George Turnbull, by kind permission of the publishers, Mansk-Svenska Publishing Company Limited, of Peel, Isle of Man.

The Department of Home Affairs also gratefully acknowledges the assistance of Manx National Heritage. Old photos reproduced by kind permission of Manx National Heritage. Head Constable photo courtesy of Isle of Man Constabulary.