43 Riverside Avenue, #234
Medford, MA 02155
Phone: (781) 665-3206
Fax: (781) 665-3255
Email: mark_snider@comcast.net
CONSTABLE'S OFFICE
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History
The word “Constable” comes from the Latin phrase, “Come Stabuli”, which was the name given to the head of the stable at the imperial court. The Individuals that were given this title were considered to be special and trusted men that were responsible for guarding the royal stable of armaments. In ancient Rome what we now know as Constables were made up of courageous men with good judgment skills that were responsible for keeping order.
The Constable was introduced into British Common Law at the conclusion of the Norman Invasion of 1066AD. The original purpose for maintaining Constables was to keep the militia and king's armaments in a ready state to defend the villages of England should the need occur. The Constable represented the king in regards to all military affairs. In France the office of Constable was second to the king in chain of power.
Constables were given a broad range of powers and duties under Common Law. The office of Constable was filled only by the most competent and responsible men. The responsibilities of Constables consisted of collecting taxes, conducting searches when needed, arresting lawbreakers, serving criminal and civil papers, and transportation of prisoners.
In the new American colonies the Constable was the first form of law enforcement officer. In these colonies the Constable’s duties were varied from location to location depending on the needs and requirements of the people he provided service for. The Constable was responsible for surveying lands, executing all warrants, and announcing big events such as a marriage.
The first American Constable responsible for these duties was in Plymouth colony in 1634 and his name was Joshua Pratt. Many of his duties were delegated to other officials and he was ultimately responsible for keeping control in the colony. The settlers in New England would often appoint Indian Constables to oversee other Indians that were placed under his command.
The office of Constable has evolved in modern times in many forms. Some cities or towns appoint Constables, and others elect them. The powers of a Constable range from that of the service of process to those of a sheriff.
