Dayton Honors First Black Police Patrolman Appointed in 1898

William A. Jenkins broke barriers and saved lives during his pioneering career with the Dayton Police Department.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Dayton Police Department is highlighting the contributions of African Americans in law enforcement, including the story of William A. Jenkins, who was the department's first Black patrolman, appointed in 1898. Jenkins was a trailblazer who broke the color barrier and was well-respected for his service, including heroically saving around 200 people during the 1913 flood. Though his career ended after an altercation with the notorious Alabama Gang, Jenkins paved the way for other Black officers to join the department in the early 1900s.

Why it matters

Jenkins' story is an important part of Dayton's and the nation's history, showcasing how African Americans overcame prejudice to serve their communities as police officers. His pioneering career helped diversify law enforcement and set an example of public service that is still relevant today.

The details

William A. Jenkins was appointed as the first Black patrolman of the Dayton Police Department in 1898. During his time on the force, he was instrumental in saving around 200 people during the devastating 1913 flood by alerting residents in the Wolf Creek and Great Miami River area to evacuate. Jenkins also arrested four members of the notorious Alabama Gang in 1916, but his career came to an end after he was beaten during an altercation with the gang.

  • Jenkins was appointed as the first Black patrolman in 1898.
  • In 1913, Jenkins alerted residents and helped save around 200 people during the Dayton flood.
  • In 1916, Jenkins arrested four members of the Alabama Gang.

The players

William A. Jenkins

The first African American patrolman appointed to the Dayton Police Department in 1898, who broke barriers and served his community with distinction.

Stephen Grismer

A former Dayton Police Department sergeant and trustee with the Dayton Police History Foundation, who highlighted Jenkins' pioneering career.

Dayton Police History Foundation

An organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the Dayton Police Department, including the story of William A. Jenkins.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He was a pioneer; he broke the color line by being appointed to the police department and performing it at the highest level...he was well respected.”

— Stephen Grismer, Former DPD sergeant and trustee, Dayton Police History Foundation (dayton247now.com)

“He was instrumental in the 1913 flood...he was at the intersection Wolf Creek and the Great Miami River to alert the people in that area that the flood waters were rising, and he was able to save about 200 people by getting them to go further west up the hill toward the soldiers home.”

— Stephen Grismer, Former DPD sergeant and trustee, Dayton Police History Foundation (dayton247now.com)

“He opened the door for other African American officers to be appointed to the police department, officers like Lucius Rice in 1909, and George Wheeler in 1910, both of whom had soaring careers.”

— Stephen Grismer, Former DPD sergeant and trustee, Dayton Police History Foundation (dayton247now.com)

What’s next

The Dayton Police History Foundation plans to continue highlighting the contributions of African Americans in law enforcement, including hosting events and exhibits to educate the public about pioneers like William A. Jenkins.

The takeaway

William A. Jenkins' story is a powerful example of how dedicated public servants can overcome prejudice and make a lasting impact on their communities. His trailblazing career paved the way for greater diversity in law enforcement and serves as an inspiration for all who seek to serve with honor and courage.