BOSTON – Today, Senator Michael O. Moore (D-Millbury) and Representative David K. Muradian (R-Grafton) announced the passage of legislation relative to the Massachusetts State Police Museum and Learning Center. The bill, which was filed by both legislators last year, secures ownership of property in the Town of Grafton as the permanent home for the Museum.
Following the 2006 closure of the State Police barracks in Grafton, Museum leaders undertook efforts to rehabilitate and preserve the historic building. The Museum opened its doors to the public earlier last year and seeks to promote the unique history and identity of the Massachusetts State Police— New England’s largest law enforcement agency. The visitor experience includes access to the former barracks and exhibits containing nearly 150 years of State Police artifacts.
“This legislation advances the mission of the Museum and will help to ensure that this nonprofit organization continues to serve the public for years to come,” said Sen. Moore. “The Museum is an important educational and historic resource for our Commonwealth and I am proud to have helped usher the bill through the Legislative process.”
“The passage of this legislation presents an amazing opportunity for both the town of Grafton and residents within the Commonwealth,” said Rep. Muradian. “The State Police Museum will not only continue to promote their unique history, but also provide important education and learning experiences for visitors. I look forward to taking a tour of the barracks and hope to work with this nonprofit organization in the future."
“On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Massachusetts State Police Museum, the officers and their families, both past and present, of the Massachusetts State Police, this is a goal long sought and achieved through the efforts of our state legislators, Representative Muradian and Senator Moore,” said John H. Crawford, who serves as President of the Museum and Learning Center. “We are most grateful for their support of this bill. This is a notable achievement in the 151-year history of the State Police.”
After receiving unanimous support in the Senate and House, the legislation has been laid on the Governor’s desk for his approbation.