Museum Blog

Sep 1, 20233 min read

VPMA film collection: preservation first…movie night to come!

The VPMA archival collection includes 121 16mm films. Our Archivist Lisa is part way through a collection assessment. Read on to learn more.

Dec 7, 20194 min read

Computer Revolution: The Story of the VPD’s MDT Pilot Program

A promotional photo that appeared as the front cover to the 1979 VPD annual report, features an officer using the first MDT. Written by...

Nov 9, 20196 min read

Policing Vancouver During the Great War–Part 2

This is a reposting of a popular blog series from 2014 in honour of Remembrance Day and those who nobly served. The First VPD Men Who...

Nov 8, 20193 min read

Policing Vancouver During the Great War

This is a reposting of a popular blog series from 2014 in honour of Remembrance Day and those who nobly served. August 4th, 2014 marks...

Apr 19, 20193 min read

The Rise and Fall of Vancouver’s Top Cop in the 1950s

Written by Sheena Koo 1950s Vancouver was an idyllic time for many. The city had just a few skyscrapers, with the Hotel Vancouver and the...

Mar 8, 20194 min read

A History of Women in the Vancouver Police Department

Three officers take aim during target practice. In 1967, women were required to train with firearms but were not allowed to carry them on...

Feb 21, 20194 min read

The City Analyst’s Lab: Vancouver’s History as a Forensic Pioneer

The entrance to 238 East Cordova Street, which served as the City Analyst’s Laboratory from 1932 to 1996. Photo VPMA photo collection...

Jul 20, 20153 min read

The Impact of Alphonse Bertillon’s Work on Criminology and Modern Day Criminal Documentation

PHOTO: BERTILLON MUG SHOT — Bertillon’s example of his “Bertillonage” method. His mugshot includes details such as his height, shoe size,...

Visiting During Covid-19