Ohio State Highway Patrol Celebrates 90th Year

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(Port Clinton) – The Ohio State Highway Patrol, with the support of the Ohio History Connection and the Ohio Army National Guard, commemorated its 90th Anniversary with the placement of an Ohio Historical Marker today at a ceremony held at Camp Perry in Ottawa County. This is the first time that an Ohio Historical Marker is honoring the Patrol.

In 1933, the Patrol was created by House Bill 270, and more than 5,000 applicants applied for the 125 openings to join the newly formed Division, which was led by Colonel Lynn Black, the Patrol’s first superintendent. The Ohio National Guard graciously volunteered the use of their facilities on Lake Erie’s Shores, and Camp Perry became the site of the first cadet class which commenced on October 3, 1933. The first class of 60 uniformed patrolmen was then sworn in on November 15, 1933, after six weeks of training in frigid temperatures and unheated facilities.

The Ohio Historical Marker was placed at the exact location of the swearing-in ceremony of the first cadet class. Scripted on the front of the marker are the historical details of the Patrol’s origin and first class. The marker’s opposite side displays the Patrol’s current 11 core values, many of which have been instilled for 90 years.

“This marker will remind visitors of the sacrifices Ohio’s troopers have made over the past 90 years protecting our communities,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “It is important we continue to thank and support the men and women of the Ohio State Highway Patrol for their dedication to serving the people of Ohio.”

Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Andy Wilson, Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent, Assistant Adjutant General, Brigadier General Matthew Woodruff, Ohio Army National Guard, and Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer Megan Wood, Ohio History Connection all provided remarks.

“This special occasion provides an opportunity to reflect on the 90 years of progress that has been made across many fronts,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “This historical marker acknowledges our active and retired employees for their contributions over nine decades of service with a purpose.”

Additionally, Colonel Jones accepted commendations on behalf of the Patrol by Director Wood from Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and the Executive Board of the Ohio History Connection.

“It is an honor to commemorate the founding of the Ohio State Highway Patrol with the dedication of this Ohio Historical Marker,” said Megan Wood, Executive Director and CEO of the Ohio History Connection. “Troopers in the Ohio State Highway Patrol have served as models of public service throughout their 90 years of history in our great state.”

The Ohio State Highway Patrol is an internationally accredited agency whose mission is to provide unbiased, professional public safety services through inclusion, collaboration, and innovation.