The Pensacola Police Historic Society

By Mike Simmons

It was mentioned as early as 1824. It was part of the city almost from the start. In 1827, an ordinance was written that only authorized persons could ring it – except in case of a fire. On June 27, 1827, the mayor proclaimed that the city constables would ring the bell at 9:00 PM from March thru September, and at 8:00 PM from September thru March.

The Old City Bell was an icon in town. It was placed prominently outside City Hall and was the communicator of the day. When the Pensacola Police Department got their own building, the old bell went with them.

At one time, the number of rings summoned all officers on duty to come to the station, or summoned all officers – on or off duty. At another time, the number of ring corresponded with the assigned beat the officer was working, and, upon hearing his number rang, he had to check in at headquarters, most probably through the call boxes around town.

On January 4, 1936, everything changed. The first transmission of the new radio system was made from the Desk Sergeant’s Office to a patrol car. At the time, two-way communication was not possible, meaning that the Desk Sergeant had to transmit a call three times and hope the officer, who may not always be in his car, heard it. It was the end of the bell.