1895 Cincinnati Police Scene: Mary Moriarty Arrest

This photograph of Mary Moriarty, taken on December 17, 1895, offers a glimpse into the world of late 19th-century Cincinnati and the operations of its police department. Captured as part of the police records, this image bears the number 5468, indicating its classification within the departments extensive photographic documentation. These records served as a means to catalog arrests and other notable figures in law enforcement, providing historical insight into crime and society during this period.

Mary Moriarty’s photograph represents a time when cities were beginning to formalize policing and record-keeping practices. The late 1800s marked a significant increase in urbanization, and police departments were evolving to address the complexities of city life. Such photographs were not only practical for identification purposes but also reflect the societal issues and challenges faced at that time, from crime rates to public safety concerns, shaping how law enforcement developed in the United States.

The image stands as an important historical document, providing a factual snapshot of an individual and the broader context of policing during this era. By examining photographs like this, we gain insights into the people and practices that characterized the changing landscape of American cities at the turn of the century.