COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Colorado Springs Police Chief Vince Niski proudly donated his 150th anniversary commemorative badge to the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum on Friday. The badge was designed for the city’s sesquicentennial year and will be worn by Colorado Springs sworn officers for the remainder of 2021.
The sesquicentennial badge design is based off one of the first badge designs ever worn by Colorado Springs police officers. In the 1800s, officers had to purchase their own badges, which is why historic badges – some of which are on display at the museum – all look a little different.
“This commemorative badge is a wonderful addition to the museum’s permanent collection, showing future generations how the city commemorated and celebrated its 150th anniversary,” said Cultural Services Director Matt Mayberry.
“I’m honored to present this badge to the museum and extremely impressed with the new COS@150 exhibit exploring our community’s rich history,” said Colorado Springs Police Chief Vince Niski. “I am humbled to donate my badge in honor of all of the officers who have proudly served this community over the last 150 years.”
CSPM is free to the public, but visitors are strongly encouraged to make reservations at CSPM.org or by calling 719-385-5990. In addition to the COS@150 exhibit, the museum offers a mobile experience for its “Story of Us” exhibit. Users can explore the region’s history from anywhere through the new website, which provides interactive maps and tours from your mobile device.