The Essex Police Museum was established in 1991 as a registered charity (No.1042055). Its aim is to preserve the history of Essex Police and provide visitors with a friendly and educational service, with information on how Essex Police has developed to become what it is today. The collection consists of objects, documents and photographs relating to the history of the force from 1840 to the present day. The majority of our paintings were commissioned for the Museum for displays and events. A special series of paintings were commissioned for Essex Police in 1990 for the force's 150th anniversary. In 2005, Essex Police Museum opened to the public on a regular basis, all thanks to a £43,000 grant awarded by the Heritage Lottery Fund. The project included a new education programme (for children and adults) as well as a complete refurbishment of the displays, which have helped to increase our visitor numbers and make us more easily accessible.