Museum Collections and Archives
Spanning over a century, our museum collections and archives explore the history of Vancouver through the eyes of policing and criminal investigation. From weapons and forensic tools to turn-of-the-century mugshots, we feature an array of unique objects through our rotating exhibits, research projects, and special events.
The Museum is housed in the 1930s Coroner's Offices and Analysis Laboratory and we are proud to include the morgue and autopsy suite as part of our museum collection.
For more information about our collection including possible donations and volunteering, please contact our Curator at curator@vancouverpolicemuseum.ca.
Access Our Artefacts Database
The museum’s wide artefacts collection includes:
- Badges, insignia, and uniforms
- Equipment used by the Vancouver Police Department, such as handcuffs, flashlights, communication equipment, and blood alcohol analyzers
- Items relating to the history of specialized squads such as the Emergency Response Team, the Dog Squad, the Mounted Squad, the Pipe Band and the Public Safety Unit
- Items confiscated by the Vancouver Police Department, such as weapons and drug paraphernalia
- Objects related to the history of the heritage building
Archives
We have thousands of photos, books and paper-based documents that offer in-depth insight into Vancouver's policing history. Guests can find:
- Old mugshots
- Historical investigative documents and much more
For research requests please fill out the form below and send to
research@vancouverpolicemuseum.ca
Please note: the archives reading room is accessible on Wednesdays via appointment only.
Archives Research Request Form
The Vancouver Police Museum is grateful for the trust it receives from its donors.
All collection, preservation, storage, and interpretation practices follow the Canadian Museum Code of Ethics and the BC Museum Association Standards and Best Practices.
Walk-in artefact donations cannot be accepted. Please contact the Museum Curator in advance to discuss and arrange donations: curator@vancouverpolicemuseum.ca.
Comments(2)
Kelly Dykstra says
October 22, 2018 at 1:22 pmHi my Father Sgt Koos Dykstra just passed away I know he took numerous pictures during his time with the Vpd. Wondering how we could view these photos?
VPMGordon says
December 7, 2018 at 10:40 amHi Kelly,
I would recommend calling the museum and arranging an appointment to look at our archives. We may or may not have these photos, but can definitely look into it. You may call 604-665-3346 to inquire.
Thanks!