A Stately Presence: the Nypds Mounted Unit October 25, 2012

New York City police have used horse-mounted officers since at least 1858, with the opening of Central Park. Since its formal organization in 1871, the Mounted Unit has evolved into one of the NYPD's most visible and elite police units. This exhibit will explore their fascinating history and continuing day-to-day operations. Through artifacts that include saddles, harnesses and uniforms, paintings, video and historic photographs, the exhibit will delve into the lives and work of the officers known by their nickname,"10-foot cops." One area of the exhibit will even provide a lifelike recreation of a stable for the Unit's horses. Overall, the exhibit explores the history of their patrol in parks, city streets, parades, and city-wide demonstrations, and examines the training and dedication required of both police officer and horse alike.