Vertical File Biographies

This is an individual biography from the vertical file of biographical information, primarily newspaper clippings, created by the Kansas State Histocial Society Library and Archives division. This is a concise version--there may be more information in this or other sources.

Charles O'Brien

Charles “Charlie” O’Brien was the first traffic cop of Emporia, Kansas, having been appointed in July, 1918 when cars were beginning to become numerous in the town. Almost everyday, Charlie would be found in the downtown district, usually at the intersection of Sixth and Commercial Streets.

He was well known and liked by everyone in town, especially the kids. To quote O‘Brien, “I always wanted to be a cop, but the kind of officer the kids weren‘t afraid of. I wanted to change the idea that a policeman was someone to frighten small children. I wanted to gain their confidence and to help them.” A little Emporia girl attested to his success when she said, “He’s that nice policeman. I guess next to Santa Claus every kid likes Charlie best.”

During Charlie’s tenure as Emporia’s traffic cop, there were few accidents in the downtown area and none where anyone was killed or seriously injured. A women once lost control of her car in the intersection were Charlie was directing traffic and struck him, but only knocked him down and tore his uniform. According to Charlie, “the woman was very scared and never drove again.”

Charlie was probably the best-dressed traffic cop in the state. Emporia didn’t have specifications for uniforms nor did they pay for special clothing for their police officers at that time. Charlie always wore a very distinctive, military like uniform and had different models for summer and winter. He always had a carnation or rose in his coat lapel that he got from a local flower shop.

O’Brien was offered the job of chief of police on several occasions and turned it down. Once, when the position was vacant, he filled in for a while. Finally, he persuaded the mayor to appoint a man who worked under him to the job so he could get back on the street and be with his friends.

When asked what was the hardest time for him as a policeman, Charlie responded, “It was two years ago when the depression was so bad. People were so discouraged it was hard to make them grin at me. But they finally got cheered up and everyone feels better now.”

Source: “Only Traffic Policeman in Emporia Is an Institution,” Kansas City Times, July 13, 1938.

The vertical file is on forty-three microfilm reels arranged alphabetically by name. These reels are available through interlibrary loan, or you may contact the reference staff . Please note that many of the clippings had yellowed and it may be impossible to produce a readable photocopy.

Completion of this biography was made possible by volunteer Frank Sotrines.