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Los Angeles Police Academy, unique combat range

 
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Title
Los Angeles Police Academy, unique combat range
Description
High-angle view of the firing range at Los Angeles Police Academy in Elysian Park, with officers firing at targets.
Format Extent
1 postcard : Color ; 9 x 14 cm.
Subject
Police shooting ranges--California--Los Angeles; Police training--California--Los Angeles;
Note
The first police force in Los Angeles was established in 1853, and consisted of volunteers. In 1869, a paid police force was established,but it was not until 1924 that there was a formal training program for new officers. Initially, training took place in classroom space in an armory in Elysian Park. In 1925, a group of officers founded the Los Angeles Police Pistol Club (later rename the Los Angeles Police Revolver and Athletic Club, or LAAPRC)" They obtained permits from the city to occupy 20 acres in the Chavez Ravine area of Elysian Park, and opened a pistol range. In the 1932 Olympics, this shooting range was used for the pistol and rifle competitions. After the games, the Los Angeles Police Department was given one of the dormitory buildings, which later became the Police Academy's restaurant and cafe. In 1935, the LAAPRC began the development of an athletic center to expand the Academy's facilities. Landscape artists Francois Scotti was commissioned to design and build a rock garden, which included a series of four pools, several cascades, a small amphitheater, and an outdoor dining area. The rock garden was dedicated as a Cultural Heritage Monument by the City of Los Angeles in 1973. Athletic facilities at the Academy include tennis court, swimming pool, gymnasium, weight room, sauna, steam room, two racquetball courts, and an 1/8 mile track. Since 1935, all Los Angeles Police Officers have received their formal training at the Academy. In 1995, however, the Los Angeles Police Department dedicated a new training facility in Westchester, with plans to gradually phase out training of new recruits at the Academy, which will then be used for in-service training.
Collection
Werner von Boltenstern Postcard Collection
Type
Geographic Location
Elysian Park (Los Angeles, Calif.)
Language
eng
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