Who was the first uniformed female police officer in the United States?

Lola Baldwin is recognized as the first uniformed female police officer in the United States, serving as a police officer in Portland, Oregon, from 1908. Her role was groundbreaking; she was appointed to handle issues specifically related to women and children, which were often overlooked at the time. Baldwin's work paved the way for women in law enforcement, demonstrating that they could perform duties equal to their male counterparts in a time when such roles were largely male-dominated. Her appointment was significant not only for the women who followed in her footsteps but also for the evolution of policing as a profession that began to recognize the unique contributions that women could bring to the field. This historical context makes it clear that Baldwin's legacy is foundational in the narrative of female participation in law enforcement.