Taunton Police Badge
This was either the first or second issue Taunton Police Patrolmen's Badge. It is the earliest style I have seen in photographs dating back to the 1870's. It was used from the 1870's until the early 1900's. This particular type of badge was commonly used in Massachusetts in the late 1800's until it was replaced by the radiator badge. This style of badge was initially used by the Boston Police in 1856 and it is likely that Taunton imitated Boston as many departments did in modeling their uniforms and badges. It was likely a stock badge with the word police and the number cut out, then the name of the city was added when ordered.