75th Anniversary of the Highway Patrol

Troop and Division History Pages On-Line

As part of the 75th Anniversary celebration, the Patrol has asked each troop (geographic command area) and division (functional command area) to write a history of their component. In order to share those with the public, we are including those history articles on each components site within this web site. To view these history articles, go to "Patrol Divisions" or "Troop Headquarters" on the menu at the left of the Patrol's "Home" page.

Highway Patrol Celebrates 75 Years of Service to the Citizens of Missouri in 2006

Colonel Roger D. Stottlemyre, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, would like to inform the public the Patrol is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2006.

Governor Henry S. Caulfield signed Senate Bill 36 on April 24, 1931, establishing the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Several bills had been introduced between 1923 and 1931, but all had failed. The act creating the Missouri State Highway Patrol became effective on September 14, 1931. The bill provided for a superintendent who would serve at the pleasure of the governor, 10 captains, and 115 patrolmen. Lewis Ellis of Bethany became the first superintendent on July 21, 1931. Because sufficient funds were not appropriated, only 55 men were hired as troopers. These officers formed the first recruit class and were trained at the St. Louis Police Academy before taking to Missouri's roads.

"As the Patrol celebrates 75 years of tradition, it also embraces the future," said Colonel Stottlemyre. "From humble beginnings the Patrol has evolved into a nationally recognized, internationally accredited, full-service law enforcement agency. Our employees, civilian and uniformed, are outstanding professionals. We are proud to serve the citizens of this state and will continue to provide the best service and protection possible."

To mark this auspicious occasion, the Patrol will provide a historical article for use by the media. In addition, a yearbook will be created along with in-depth historical books. Each headquarters will hold in-house celebrations. Anniversary signs will begin appearing at each troop headquarters and a special decal will be affixed to Patrol vehicles.

To mark this auspicious occasion, the Patrol will provide a historical article for use by the media. In addition, a yearbook will be created along with in-depth historical books. Each headquarters will hold in-house celebrations. Anniversary signs will begin appearing at each troop headquarters and a special decal will be affixed to Patrol vehicles.

Other notable anniversaries this year include:

• The Crime Laboratory Division celebrates its 70th year.
• Troops G, Willow Springs, Troop H, St. Joseph, and the Aircraft Division all mark 60 years.
• The Patrol's Law Enforcement Academy complex has been training troopers and law enforcement officers from around the state for 35 years.
• The Missing Children's Unit within the Division of Drug and Crime Control has been in existence for 20 years.