William Montague Glenister (1828-1894)

From Historical Hastings


Listed as 'The Father of Hastings Police'[1] and also the Captain of the early Fire Brigade in the town. William Glenister started his career as a constable in the Metropolitan Police Force. Rising through the ranks rapidly, he became Superintendent of the Great Western Railway Police. Upon applying for the position of Chief Constable of Hastings Police Force which had become vacant, he gained the post in 1860.

The position also encompassed that of Superintendent of the town's Fire Brigade. Debate as to the necessity of forming a volunteer fire-service had been taking place for a number of years prior to William's arrival; the final result being that of a volunteer brigade being formed in May of 1861[2]. As the chief fireman, he made a number of inventions; one of which being a tricycle fire-tender[3]. By 1889, he had been President of the Hastings Mechanics’ Institution three times[2].

References & Notes

  1. Early life in London: William Montague Glenister - Early life in London, accessdate: 17 January 2020
  2. a b British Newspaper Archive Hastings & St. Leonards Observer 6 July 1889 Pg. 0002
  3. British Newspaper Archive Hastings & St. Leonards Observer 6 July 1889 Pg. 0006