Why Paul Revere, The Viaduct Appear On Canton's Police Badge

Ever wonder the meaning of the logo on the Canton Police Department's patch? The following description is written on the Canton Police's website:

The uniform patch of the Canton, Massachusetts Police Department is proudly worn on the left shoulder of each officer, as it is closest to the heart.  It is representative of both the historical attributes of the community the officers protect and serve, as well as the symbolic legacy of the agency. 

The scene on the patch has three distinct images, the first being a silhouette of Paul Revere, lantern in hand, riding a horse upon a copper roll.  This is significant from a historical perspective, because Paul Revere owned and operated the first “Copper Rolling Mill” in the United States, which was located in this community.  Symbolically, this “gleaming figure in the night” is illuminating the path of good over evil. 

The “Viaduct” is the bridge that represents the only rail connection to the northeast and the City of Boston for people from across the nation.  It is one of only two hollow stone bridges in the world, the second being in Russia.  This fact is important in itself, because it underscores the importance of connection and partnership between the community and the officers who protect and serve it.   

The distant image of historical “Blue Hills” in the background, coupled with the decorative native bead design outlining the overall scene, pays homage to the original settlers of Canton, the Native American “Ponkapoag” tribe.  The color of the beads is significant, the gold representing excellence and the blue line separating the black bead is a symbolic tribute to officers who have died in the line of duty.