Metropolitan Special Constabulary (Unofficial) History Blog

This blog is unofficial, meaning it has not been authorised, commissioned or approved by the Metropolitan Police. Any views expressed are completely the views of contributors and not of any organisation or employer.

History is so vitally important. In connects us to our past and reminds us that the generations who came before us, enabled progress through hard work and perseverance. The history of the Metropolitan Special Constabulary (MSC) is no different. It is a history of dedication, loyalty and unwavering resolve to serve. Volunteering is a noble cause, but volunteering to be a Police Officer is a whole different kettle of fish. Some people, including some fellow Police Officers, think Special Constables are mad for doing the job for free. That narrative severely undermines the complex nature of why Specials choose to do 'the Job.' It is not for reward, not for power and most certainly not for free travel.  Specials answer the call to serve for many reasons - helping others, giving to others, making a difference or even just being part of a unique team. What unites all Specials is the fact they don't just want to be part of something, they want to be part of something worthwhile. There is no greater calling than to serve your community, for free.

In this blog, you will find various articles relating to the history of the MSC. This will range from character profiles to noteworthy events and general historical insights. Anyone with an interest in policing history or the MSC are free, and encouraged, to contribute.

The rich history of the MSC is one difficult to map. The call upon Specials started in the Statute of Winchester 1285, which made hue and cry a legal process (requirement for bystanders to assist in apprehending criminals) and made the capture of criminals a collective responsibility of the community. The official and organisation start of the MSC can be found in the 19th and early 20th century. For instance, 1848 saw the enrolment of 170,000-200,000 Special Constables to keep the threat of the Chartists away from Parliament. 

However, the uniformed, equipped and reliable MSC of today can find its roots in the Great War. Prior to the Great War, there was no sustained service of Special Constables in the MSC, according to the highly accredited historian, Colonel W. T. Reay CBE. Many quote the 1831 Special Constables Act as the beginning of the uniformed MSC. Yet, the Act only provided for the appointment of Special Constables in time of unrest. It is the hope of the blog's contributors that throughout the various pages, we will be able to enlighten you on the messy, yet noble history which forms todays MSC.

Below are some recommend readings for those with an interest. Contributors to this blog are not historians, although may have history degrees. They are simply people with an interest, wishing to educate those who may also be interested.

1- The Specials: How They Served London. The Story of the Metropolitan Special Constabulary. Colonel W.T. Reay. Published 1920.

2- The Metropolitan Special Constabulary: The War Force - The Reserve. Colonel W.T. Reay. In: The Police Journal, April 1928.

3- The New Special Constabulary. Inspector C.E. Turner (Wiltshire Constabulary). In: The Police Journal: Theory, Practice and Principles, July 1950.

4- The Organisation and Training of Special Constabulary. Commandant R.W. Townsend, MC (Exeter City Special Constabulary). In: The Police Journal: Theory, Practice and Principles, January 1943.

We hope you enjoy the blog and appreciate any comments you have. If you wish to contribute, please do get in touch!

Background Graphic: "Couldn't you chaps think of any other hobby?" from the Evening News, undated. Copyright reserved to the Evening News.

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