THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JAnUAry 17, 2025 Page 5 A look back at Saugus history Police Chief Charles Thompson retired at age 67 and bought a farm on Cape Cod where he spent his fi nal years (Editor’s Note: This is the fi nal in a three-part series of articles by frequent Saugus Advocate contributor Janice K. Jarosz on the town’s fi rst police chief, Charles O. Thompson.) By Janice K. Jarosz M any articles about Saugus Police Chief Charles O. Thompson appeared in the newspaper throughout his career. On May 26, 1921, an article appeared with the headline “Chief Thompson Popular Offi cer.” This story detailed his job performance and extolled his popularity. The last paragraph stated, “Results have amply proven the wisdom of the town fathers of their confidence in the personality and abilities of Chief Thompson. It is hoped that he may not feel compelled to ask for retirement for some time to come.” Reading between the lines, it appeared that the town was looking to replace the chief! Nationwide, events were happening that also had a direct bearing on the mood of the people to remove the 67-yearold chief. The fi rst was the implementation of the Civil Service System for municipal employees. Many felt it was time to appoint public servants with more credentials than just friendship and handshakes. Another serious consequence facing law enforcement was the Prohibition Amendment, which went into eff ect on January 16, 1920. Between May 21 and June 30, 1921, a new election was held with new selectmen voted in. Shortly after the election the following headline appeared on June 30, 1921: “Chief Thompson To Retire September 1st.” The article went on to say that “Chief Thompson had tendered his application to be placed upon the Retirement List to the selectmen, Monday night, after having served the town for 30 years, 26 of them as Police Chief. It was also learned that he bought a farm on Cape Cod and would spend the remainder of his days in following agricultural pursuits.” On July 14, 1921, it was reported that Chief of Police Charles O. Thompson sold his residence in HISTORY | SEE PAGE 7 SAUGUS’ FIRST POLICE CHIEF: Charles O. Thompson served the town for 30 years, 26 of them as Police Chief. He was popular. A large number of employees, town offi cials and friends honored him with a retirement party and presented him with a purse of $200 in gold and $56.00 in bills. He was also allowed to keep his badge and the revolver he carried for many years. (Courtesy Photo to The Saugus Advocate) SABATINO/MASTROCOLA INSURANCE AGENCY 519 BROADWAY EVERETT, MA 02149 Auto * Home * Boat * Renter * Condo * Life * Multi-Policy Discounts * Commercial 10% Discounts * Registry Service Also Available Sabatino Insurance is proud to welcome the loyal customers of ALWAYS READY TO SERVE YOU: Our Staff are, Emma Davidson, Jeimy Sanchez, Josephine Leone, Marie D’Amore, Rocco Longo, Z’andre Lopez, Anthony DiPierro, Darius Goudreau, Laurette Murphy, Danielle Goudreau and Tina Davidson. PHONE: (617) 387-7466 FAX: (617) 381-9186 Visit us online at: WWW.SABATINO-INS.COM
6 Publizr Home