Inspector Denning

This photograph album is inscribed ‘This album presented to Chief Inspector Denning, Palace of Westminster Police, by Robert Jones Griffiths, Esq., LL.D., of the Parliamentary Press, as a mark of esteem and respect. August 1886.' The album consists of photographs of politicians, officers of the House of Commons, journalists, doorkeepers and police officers. Eleazar Denning was born in Chardstock, Dorset in 1829, the same year that the Metropolitan Police Force was founded by Sir Robert Peel. At the age of 17 Denning moved to London and joined the force, serving as a Constable. He rose to the rank of Inspector in ‘A' Division which covered Westminster, Whitehall and the Royal Parks. During this time he worked as Inspector of Police at the National Gallery and performed special duties on Epsom Derby Day. In 1864 Denning was appointed to take charge of the police arrangements in the House of Commons. It was a period of political volatility and Denning was responsible for ensuring the safety of the House. He was respected by all Parliamentarians. In 1885 he was appointed Chief Inspector of the Palace of Westminster and he retired in 1888 at the age of 69.