Of particular interest, these earliest patrol cars of the MSP were seized from bootleggers and other criminals of the prohibition era. We are in dire need of a photo of one, so your help in this regard would be GREATLY appreciated! It is unknown if these plates were issued as a single or in pairs. A large numeral occupied the left side of the plate with STATE over POLICE occupying the remainder of the plate. The 1919-1920 license plate was an embossed steel plate measuring approximately 5 1/2' x 11' and painted white over black. The earliest known license plate used by the MSP was issued in 1919-1920 but was not dated. The Michigan State Police holds the distinct honor of having issued the earliest dated state agency-specific license plates in North America. License Plates of the Michigan State Police What was once a cavalry of 300 men now has evolved into one of the leading police agencies of the United States, truly reflective of the MSP's motto: 'A Proud Tradition of Service Through Excellence, Integrity and Courtesy'. It is one of the few agencies in North America that still uses this older style overhead light. Marked patrol vehicles of the MSP still bear the single red rotator rooftop light, some call the 'tomato can'. There are 65 MSP Posts throughout the Great Lake State and many elements of logistical support including canine, aviation and crime labs to name a few. Today, the Michigan State Police consists of a modern-day force of over 3000 civilian and law enforcement professionals, using the latest up-to-date training and technology to protect the citizens of Michigan. In 1965, the MSP was reorganized and was one of 19 departments provided by the new state constitution. A high honor indeed for the MSP! By 1956, the ranks of the MSP swelled to 1000 for the first time. After the end of World War II, General Douglas MacArthur requested the help of the Michigan State Police in reorganizing the Japanese national police as a democratic, civil police force. In 1930, the black uniform was replaced with the familiar blue and gray uniform. In 1924, an expanded fleet of Indian and Harley Davidson motorcycles were introduced to highway patrol including in the Winter (with use of sidecars of course). On March 26, 1919, Public Act 26 reorganized the Constabulary as the permanent, peace-time Michigan State Police. This new force consisted of five Troops of mounted, dismounted and motorized units, totaling 300 men. On April 19, 1917, the Michigan State Troops Permanent Force, (also known as the Michigan State Constabulary) was created. The Michigan Department of State Police began as a temporary, wartime emergency force for the purpose of domestic security during World War I.

Michigan front license plates