Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark is broadcasting an all-points bulletin for any items that reflect the history and legacy of the local police department.
The goal is to decorate walls in the lobby of the new Justice Center, which is nearing completion at 12th & Baker.
“Police departments are notoriously bad about maintaining their history, their heritage,” Haulmark said. “Procedures and technology change rapidly over the years and we would like to reflect those changes in our new facility.”
The chief is looking for donations such as badges, patches, uniforms, photos, handcuffs, and firearms and other weapons.
“Maybe former police officers, as well as their families and friends don’t even realize they have some of these items,” Haulmark commented. “Or maybe they are aware of some things around the house but don’t know what to do with them.
“If enough items are donated, we can change them up now and then to allow everything to be displayed at some point. There might be other areas in the building where they can be used too.”
Haulmark, who is a self-proclaimed history buff, has many collectibles in his office that represent law enforcement. But the goal now is to concentrate on things specific to the local police department.
Other items that represent the City of Great Bend’s past also will be considered.
“I would like to have some items in the lobby by the time of our open house this fall,” Haulmark said, noting a firm date has not been set. “But even after that event, anyone interested in taking a look at what we have collected should feel free to give me a call.
“This project is important to all of us at the police department,” he added. “Representations of the past help us remember where we came from, while depicting the many strides that have been made in local law enforcement.”
Haulmark came upon this idea when he worked for the Kansas City, Ks., Police Department, which houses its own museum.
For more information, contact Haulmark by calling 620-793-4120.