FAMILY HISTORY
The Metropolitan Police was formed in 1829, and over 200,000 officers have joined it since its formation. The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS), through its history, has partly comprised Divisions, each given one or more letters signifying different parts of London. These Divisional letters, and a Divisional number appear on the uniform epaulettes or collars of Constables and Sergeants. Over time, the Divisional numbers are re-allocated to other officers, and, without a date, they will normally not identify an officer with any degree of certainty. On joining, each officer is allocated a personal warrant number, and it is this warrant number which is a certain means of identification.
Recruitment to the Metropolitan Police has never been below the age of eighteen.
Before proceeding further, please read the notes about family history research involving members of the Metropolitan Police which we have compiled to help you:
Far left standing – Det. Sergt. A Tester; Far left sitting – Chief Inspr. J Smale (CID) Deputy Commandant
Middle standing – Det. Inspr. H Hannam; Middle sitting – Chief Supt. G Somerset (CID) Commandant
Middle standing – Det. Inspr. J MacIver; Middle right sitting – Supt. C Cuthbert (CID) M.P Forensic Science Laboratory; Far right standing – Det. Inspr. J.G. Ellis, M.B.E
(This picture comes from Wendy Debenham, whose husband's great uncle was George Somerset)