On September 24, 1789, President George Washington signed the Judiciary Act into law, laying the foundation for the federal judiciary and creating the Office of the United States Marshal. With that single act, the nation established its first federal law enforcement agency, one that would serve as the strong right arm of the courts and the executive branch.
Washington appointed the first 13 U.S. Marshals, one for each federal judicial district. These men carried responsibilities as broad as they were vital. They served writs, subpoenas, and warrants; managed federal jails; secured courtrooms; and enforced orders of the new federal courts. In many cases, they became the most visible representation of federal authority in the young republic. Their work provided stability, lending credibility to the rule of law at a time when the United States was still proving itself on the world stage.
Guardians of Justice Through the Centuries
From the earliest days, U.S. Marshals embodied the principle that law enforcement exists to ensure justice is not just written but carried out. In the 19th century, they enforced laws during turbulent times, from combating piracy to upholding court orders during civil unrest. They played a central role in enforcing the Fugitive Slave Act, a chapter that remains controversial but underscores their place at the heart of America’s most difficult struggles. Later, Marshals stood alongside civil rights activists to enforce desegregation orders in the 1960s, often facing danger and hostility in service of the law.
Beyond their high-profile duties, marshals have long been tasked with the difficult, everyday work of prisoner transport, witness protection, and fugitive apprehension. Today, the U.S. Marshals Service operates the world’s most effective fugitive task forces, apprehending thousands of dangerous individuals each year. They protect judges, maintain order in our courts, and ensure that justice remains both accessible and secure.
A Lasting Legacy in Federal Law Enforcement
The creation of the Marshals Service in 1789 was not simply about forming a new office. It was about creating a model for professional law enforcement at the federal level. The Marshals were expected to act with integrity, enforce the law impartially, and represent the authority of the United States with honor. Their existence demonstrated a clear truth: a nation cannot endure without officers willing to carry out its laws faithfully.
This legacy continues today. The Marshals Service stands as a reminder of how far American law enforcement has come and how deeply its roots run. Every officer who puts on the badge, federal, state, or local, follows in a tradition that traces back to that pivotal September day in 1789.
Reflecting on Their Place in History
As we remember the creation of the U.S. Marshals Service, we honor more than an institution. We honor the countless men and women who have carried out its duties for over two centuries. Their courage, professionalism, and sacrifice built a standard that continues to inspire law enforcement officers across the country.
The Marshals’ story is America’s story, one of struggle, resilience, and an enduring commitment to justice. For today’s officers, it is a reminder that the challenges we face are part of a long continuum. Just as the first marshals safeguarded the fledgling nation, today’s law enforcement officers protect our communities, uphold our freedoms, and ensure that the promise of justice endures.
