I have always been fascinated with history. To be effective in the future one must understand the past. What could be more fascinating than the evolution of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol from it's inception through the present? There have been many contributions, via selfless acts of heroism, personal stories,events, trials and tribulations, that have made this a great organization. All from the men and women who have served along with the friends and associates who have supported us through the years.
I would like to take a moment to re-introduce, and with your assistance, resurrect a 27-year-old idea. Several years ago I was reviewing a NCSHP Newsletter, dated May 1984, and read a message from Colonel D. L. Matthews. On 12 March 1984, a Highway Patrol Hall of History Committee was established. After several years of diligent work this important and honorable plan began to meet with unclear resistance. This resulted in the demise of the committee. In 2008, with the blessing of Colonel Fletcher Clay, an effort to revive the original Hall of History idea began. Along with others who shared my passion for NCSHP history, we began Hall of History meetings in February 2008. Active members of the patrol (uniform and civilian), representatives of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol Retirees' Association, representation of the Troopers Association and the SHP Auxilary were assembled. At the meeting held 18 November 2010, Officers were appointed and the Constitution and By-laws were approved by the Board of Directors.
The general purpose of the not-for-profit corporation is to provide for the establishment and operation of a museum to document and preserve the history of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. Although this process has taken some time, it is extremely important to first develop a solid foundation to build upon. This is an ambitious long-term plan. It will not only pay tribute to the accomplishments and great sacrifices of it's members, but it will also offer educational opportunities to the general public and serve as a recruiting and training tool for the organization.
As the business of the NCSHP Hall of History Corporation moves forward many of you will be asked to assist and/or support this endeavor. The members of the Board of Directors welcomes any suggestions and comments. You will be kept informed of our progress through this website. In closing, the Board of Directors are excited and focused on leading this endeavor in making the state-of-art NCSHP Museum a reality. This museum will enhance a positive image of the State of North Carolina and the Highway Patrol and further it's highway safety efforts. Again, we respectfully solicit any and all assistance in whatever way each of you deem necessary to make this tremendous undertaking a success.
Sincerely,
Randy Glover, President NCSHP Hall of History