Partners in Crime: Dr Thomas Beaumont and the Origins of Policing in Bradford

Join the Mechanics Institute and the Bradford Police Museum for Partners in Crime: Dr Thomas Beaumont and the Origins of Policing in Bradford, a special collaborative Bradford Heritage Festival event exploring the life and legacy of Dr Thomas Beaumont - surgeon, reformer and one of the civic figures connected to the development of Bradford’s early night watchmen.

This free event has been developed through a collaborative partnership between the two heritage venues, bringing together civic, social and policing history across two significant historic sites in the heart of Bradford.

The morning begins at the Mechanics’ Institute with tea and coffee, followed by a short illustrated talk exploring Beaumont’s work in public health, sanitary reform and improving safety in an expanding industrial Bradford. The session will also introduce the story of Bradford’s early night watchmen - the forerunners to organised policing in the town - including the local story that Beaumont reportedly died from exhaustion whilst on duty.

Following the talk, participants will take a short guided walk through Bradford city centre to the Bradford Police Museum, housed within the historic Victorian police station beneath City Hall. Visitors will enjoy a full guided museum tour, including the original cells, courtroom and the current exhibition, Police & The People: 19th Century Policing in Bradford, charting the history of policing and civic authority in Bradford.

What To Expect:

Included in your ticket are refreshments at Bradford Mechanics Institute, followed by a short talk exploring the life and work of Dr Thomas Beaumont. Afterwards, the group will take a short walk to Bradford Police Museum, where you will enjoy a full guided tour of the museum, including the gallery, historic cells, and Victorian courtroom. The event will last approximately 2.5 hours.

Important Event Information:

• Event begins at Bradford Mechanics Institute and finishes at The Bradford Police Museum.

• This is a free event in conjunction with Bradford Heritage Festival. However, tickets are limited to 2 per customer. Advance booking is required.

• Maximum capacity for this event is 30 people.

• Part of this event will take place outside, and involves walking, so please do wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

• Parts of the venues involved in this event are not wheelchair accessible. Please see the Plan Your Visit Page for more information.