The Pensacola Police Historic Society

An excerpt from the book, “Pensacola’s Finest,” available on Amazon

On October 15, 1923, The Pensacola News Journal reported that Captain Ernest Ellis Harper was appointed chief to replace Mose Penton.  Chief Harper was born in 1890 in Roberts, Florida.  He moved to Pensacola in 1909 and joined the force two years later.  Chief Harper spent time as a patrolman, a turnkey and a motorcycle officer before being promoted to captain and deputy marshal in 1919.  When Chief Harper took over, Prohibition was in full force.  A nationwide battle was several years old, and Pensacola was no different.  Reports named Sanders Beach as being a “point of sale” that was known by most officers.  “The Barn,” located at 105 West Jackson Street, was the party headquarters for naval officers and others.  The Black Market was very active, including shiploads being brought in and delivered to the locals at the sight of the ruins of the battleship U. S. S. Massachusetts in the Gulf of Mexico.  While it is true that ratification of little to curb the consumption of legal and illegal alcohol, battle continued to rage. 

On September 25, 1921, Captain Harper’s family was enjoying the fall weather at Chumuckla Springs when their 4-year-old daughter became very ill.  Their daughter, Marguerite, died that evening and was buried in St. John’s Cemetery the next day.  The service was held in the family home at 702 North “E” Street.

On November 17, 1925, City Commissioner Frank Dent Sanders died after suffering cerebral hemorrhages.  Chief Harper was appointed to the commission in his place.  He was then reelected in 1929.  He then went on to become the Police Commissioner in 1930.  In 1932, Harper made an unsuccessful play for Escambia County Sheriff.  After his defeat, Harper became a deputy sheriff.  Then, on June 6, 1933, tragedy again struck the Harper family.  Harpers wife, Amelia Fleming Harper, passed away at the age of 43. 

Harper continued raising his four children as a single father.  In addition to Earnest, Amelia and Marguerite, the family consisted of two boys – Edward & Raymond, and two daughters – Dorothy & Jeanette.  Note: Harper’s son, Raymond C. Harper, decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a Pensacola police officer.