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Welcome:
Established in 2001, the California Law Enforcement Historical Society is a 501 (c) 3, non-profit, public benefit, educational corporation, FEIN 56-2298408, with the sole intent of preserving the rich history of the peace officers who have served within the State of California. The objective is to link those interested in preserving the past a forum for education, research, and the enjoyment of history through:
California Police Museum and Learning Center: This 30 foot trailer displays the history of California peace officers in 11 galleries that trace the profession from Statehood to the present. Click here for the Museum
California Police Historian: The official society newsletter is produced six times a year and contains articles and information of interest to our membership. The California Police Historian is now included in PCNews which is emailed to all members.
San Luis Obispo Police Memorabilia Show: Held each July in San Luis Obispo, the show provides law enforcement collectors, historians and enthusiasts a place to meet, network, and see fine displays of badges, patches, photos and other law enforcement historical memorabilia. Click here for the Show
Web Site: The Society’s web site is the source for stories, news, forums, photos of old badges, and links to other sites of interest.
Membership is $40.00 per year or $400.00 one-time payment for a life membership. Click here for Membership
The Society is governed by a nine person, volunteer, board of directors.
For additional information about the California Law Enforcement Historical Society, please contact:
Gary Hoving, President
California Law Enforcement Historical Society
P. O. Box 254875
Sacramento, CA 95865-4875
Phone (805) 441-4936
Email: Gary Hoving
How did the CLEHS Originate?
The California State Sheriff’s Association celebrated their 100 year anniversary in 1994. In recognition of the rich heritage of the Sheriffs, the CSSA requested historical displays from the various departments throughout the State for exhibition at the conference held in Modesto. A room dedicated to history was located next to the vendors area.
There were several agencies represented and a docent was provided by each participating office. Gary Hoving was selected by San Luis Obispo County Sheriff, Ed Williams, to represent his office.
During free time, the historians would gather and share information about their collection and exhibits. Included in that group was Brad Darling from the Kern County Sheriffs Department and Rick Sprain from the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Department.
It was realized that other historians and collectors existed from many departments in California. Recognizing the shared interest led to the formation and incorporation of the California Law Enforcement Historical Society in 2001. Included in the charter members were Brad Darling and Rick Sprain.
The original three officers of the CLEHS corporation were Evan Mason, Dr. Jack Jones and Gary Hoving.
Now you know the history of our history.
CLEHS group photo
Here is a group photo of about 41 CLEHS members taken at the 2023 National Police Collectors Show on Saturday, June 3, 2023, in San Bernardino, CA.
