Since their founding, New Orleans and other parts of Louisiana have seen great changes in what is considered "policing." In the early days there was a reliance on soldiers. Because of slavery, New Orleans once had an armed and uniformed military type of force that regularly patrolled as a group. This force was reduced only because of the expense. New Orleans police forces in the 19th century often suffered from lack of pay and the changing demands of the city. Early police forces had many immigrants as officers.
Pierre Achille Rivery, Commissioner of Police, reported that the night of December 8-9 passed quietly. The watchmen were neglectful of the streetlamps, which went out at 4 A.M. Two men were arrested on vagrancy charges, and a third, a sailor, was picked up for extreme drunkenness. Circa 1806-1809 December 8, 9. Rosemonde E. & Emile Kuntz collection: National period, 1804-1950, Manuscripts Collection 600, La Research Collection
