Chief Fred G. Jenkins

1998 Induction Ceremony into the Heritage Hall of Fame
Honoring
"Glens Falls Police - Seal of Protection"

Chief Fred G. Jenkins

A native of Queensbury, Fred Jenkins was a product of the milling family that flourished at Jenkinsville. He was educated in district and public schools, then worked as a young man for the National Express Company, the Peyser Collar Company and the Hudson Valley Railway. He was employed as a freight contractor when he was appointed to the Glens Falls Village Police Department and was named Chief in 1906.

Upon formation of the City of Glens Falls in 1908, he continued as patrolman and acting Chief until his appointment to the permanent position of Chief a year later.

At his death, Fred Jenkins had served in the capacity if Police Chief a longer period than any other such officer in New York State. He served at one time as President of the State Association of Police Chiefs. His administration saw the inauguration of traffic regulation by the force, installation of police signal boxes, and establishment of a bureau of identification, utilizing fingerprints.

It was remembered that virtually every major crime in Glens Falls that had occurred during his tenure resulted in an arrest.

He was survived by his wife and two sons.